Data Engineer 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-five years, our drive and passion to change the world has enabled us to become the largest producer and marketer of bioethanol and a leader in sustainable products in the world.

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. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It’s the best way to optimize health, wellness, and productivity in a sustainable way. We work hard. We play hard. We have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and we know how to celebrate wins!

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES

POET is a fast-paced, data-driven biotech company which operates a complex business affected by hundreds of variables, and data is used every day to help drive decisions and improve outcomes. Our data comes from many areas of the business, including sensors in our bioethanol plants, commodity markets, financial systems, logistics, and other business applications.

The Data Engineering Intern will work alongside the Data Engineering team to gain hands-on experience with the systems and processes used to collect, organize, transform, and deliver data throughout the organization. This internship is intended to provide meaningful project experience while introducing the intern to enterprise data systems, tools, and development practices.

This is an on-site role located in Sioux Falls, SD. Responsibilities include:

• Assist with building and maintaining data pipelines used to collect, clean, transform, and deliver data.
• Write and troubleshoot SQL queries to retrieve, validate, and analyze data.
• Help identify and resolve data quality issues.
• Assist with automating manual or repetitive data processes.
• Participate in testing and validating new or updated data solutions.
• Work with Data Engineers, analysts, and business stakeholders to better understand how data is used throughout POET.
• Create and maintain documentation for data processes, pipelines, and systems.
• Gain exposure to databases, orchestration tools, APIs, industrial data systems, and other enterprise technologies.
• Contribute to one or more projects that provide measurable value to the Data Engineering team or the business.
• Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skills may be put to a lot of other uses!

The POET Never Satisfied Internship openings are for Summer 2027. We post Internships in early September with the intention of having interns selected by November 1st.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Currently pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field.
• Basic understanding of relational databases and SQL.
• Some programming or scripting experience with languages or tools such as Python, SQL, PowerShell, C#, Java, or similar technologies is preferred.
• Interest in learning about data engineering, automation, databases, and enterprise technology.
• Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• Ability to learn new technologies and concepts quickly.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail and a willingness to ask questions.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and the ability to learn new programs.

A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE

• A strong desire to learn and develop new technical skills.
• Curiosity and an interest in understanding how data and systems work.
• A strong customer service mindset with a value placed on relationships.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
• The ability to take directions, receive feedback, and apply what they have learned.
• The willingness to ask questions and seek help when needed.
• An innovative mindset and willingness to explore new ideas.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with others.
• A high level of personal integrity.
• The ability to adapt to changing priorities and unfamiliar challenges.
• The ability to work in a team environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

This position operates in an office environment, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand. Most of our Sioux Falls office workspace consists of an open-concept design intended to promote open communication and collaboration.

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

At POET, we encourage internal development and growth by allowing team members to carve their own path to success. Leaders support team members with the necessary resources to develop their skills, achieve goals, and create the most value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization. Each new team member’s position and compensation are carefully determined by considering their unique qualifications and skillset.

PERKS

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually
• On-site fitness centers or fitness reimbursements
• Safety and cold-weather gear reimbursements

POET is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, merit, and other legitimate business factors, without regard to any legally protected characteristic. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.