Structural Engineering Intern

ABOUT POET

At POET, it is our mission to be good stewards of the Earth by converting renewable resources to energy and other valuable goods as effectively as humanly possible. For over thirty years our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and leader in biobased products in the world. Beyond our world-class culture, POET team members enjoy competitive pay and perks including;

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements 
• Safety and cold weather gear, and more!

The POET Never Satisfied Internship openings are for Summer 2024. We post Internships in September with the intent to have interns selected by January 1st each year.

JOB SUMMARY

Structural Engineering Interns play a key role in supporting the mission of POET.  They support the POET team with industrial design, implementation, and specification of steel and concrete structural systems.  They learn alongside Professional Engineers (PE’s) to gain engineering best practices in new structures and modifications to existing structures.  They collaborate with a team of multi-disciplined engineers including structural, civil, process, mechanical, environmental, process automation, electrical, milling & material handling, project managers, and CAD Drafters.

DURING A TYPICAL DAY (IF THERE IS ONE)…

• Assist with structural engineering and drafting tasks under the supervision of Structural Engineers, including, but not limited to:
• Steel Design (Member sizes, Braces, Monorail Hoist Beam/Crane, Pipe Racks, Catwalks, Equip Stand, Hoist Beams)
• Structural Analysis Software; RISA 3D
• Concrete Design
• Material take off
• Site Visits
• Metal Building Design
• Procurement
• Contract Administration
• Complete analysis of structural design.
• Perform calculations for concrete, steel and masonry structures.
• Create and analyze computer building models for structural projects. 
• Research design options and document findings.
• Assist in meeting safety, budget, and schedule requirements.
• May assist in new technology research and testing to improve processes.
• May be exposed to on-site commissioning and start-up activities.
• Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.
• Maintain a team environment at all times and champion POET in the community.
• Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skill may be put to a lot of other uses!

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Junior or senior level status majoring in an Engineering program required; Civil, Structural, or Architectural Engineering preferred.
• Prior Structural Engineering academic/internship experience will be considered in related industries; industrial, food processing, oil and gas, agricultural, manufacturing, construction, etc.
• You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.
• Knowledge of Structural Analysis Software such as RISA or CADD is a plus.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to embrace change.
• You communicate effectively in writing and in person.
• You have the ability to understand technical and day to day operation of a bioprocessing facility.
• You possess the following qualities:
  • Detail oriented
  • Resourceful
  • Never Satisfied
  • Collaborative
  • A leader and a role model
  • Self-directed

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Culture is king at POET. We’re all on the same team. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren’t just slogans on our walls. It’s the way we do things at POET.
• Up to 25% travel will be part of the norm for this position to visit the bioprocessing facilities, meetings and site visits. At times overnight travel may be required.
• The work environment at POET is dynamic. You should expect a balance between time spent in the office and at the bioprocessing facility, which may include some physical labor helping your team members.
• Specific physical requirements may include:
  • Sitting for approximately 90% of the time while working on a personal computer.
  • Occasionally lifting weight up to sixty (60) pounds or less.
  • Climbing several flights of stairs and ladders.
  • Occasionally bending, twisting, and turning while lifting weights of less than fifty (50) pounds.
  • Walking of two (2) or more miles per day.
  • Working at heights, in confined spaces, and at temperatures from -20 to 100 degrees.
  • Standing for extended periods of time.
  • Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). POET complies with all applicable federal, state and local laws regarding hiring and employment. Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or veteran status.