Plant Engineering Intern - Summer 2026

POET • Chancellor, SD

75d

About The Position

The Plant Engineering Intern works closely with the Plant Manager and the Maintenance Manager to maximize efficiencies of plant operations while optimizing plant run time. The Plant Engineering Intern troubleshoots and identifies process needs to maintain production levels and assists in the development of predictive and preventative maintenance programs. This is an on-site role located in Chancellor, SD. Some or all of the following projects/research/initiatives relating to plant operations may be assigned throughout the duration of the internship: Efficiencies, Maintenance, Process Optimization, Operations, Compile & Analyze data, Location-specific research, Environmental Compliance. Additional responsibilities include: Work with the Plant Manager and Maintenance Manager on operation/troubleshooting issues, as well as efforts to review and enhance predictive maintenance programs. Work with the maintenance department and outside vendors to assist in the ongoing development of the preventative maintenance program. The Plant Engineering Intern will determine applicable equipment, necessary tools, and required inspection frequencies. Work with the management team to further strengthen and develop plant operating procedures. Maintain confidentiality relating to projects and processes. 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.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Junior or Senior-level student enrolled full-time at an accredited 4-year college/university pursuing a degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Agricultural Engineering.
• Must be able to work a variety of shifts, minimum of 40 hours/week.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Ability to adapt to change.
• Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to learn new programs.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity or experience with DCS control and DCS historian systems.

Responsibilities

• Maximize efficiencies of plant operations while optimizing plant run time.
• Troubleshoot and identify process needs to maintain production levels.
• Assist in the development of predictive and preventative maintenance programs.
• Compile and analyze data related to plant operations.
• Conduct location-specific research and ensure environmental compliance.
• Work with the Plant Manager and Maintenance Manager on operation/troubleshooting issues.
• Review and enhance predictive maintenance programs.
• Assist in the ongoing development of the preventative maintenance program.
• Determine applicable equipment, necessary tools, and required inspection frequencies.
• Strengthen and develop plant operating procedures.
• Maintain confidentiality relating to projects and processes.
• Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance.
• Champion POET in the community.

Benefits

• Competitive BONUS opportunities - up to SIX bonuses per year (Quarterly Profit Sharing & Value Share).
• Paid time off and paid holidays - 40 hours of PTO available on Day 1, on top of a biweekly PTO accrual program.
• Comprehensive benefits package; Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution.
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions.
• 401K with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations.
• Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements.
• Discounted home and auto insurance.
• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually.
• 'Family-first' culture.
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees