Environmental 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

Every day, Environmental Engineers play a critical role in supporting the mission of POET by providing technical expertise to designers, construction project managers, and plant staff in the areas of air, water, and overall environmental compliance to ensure projects will be successful. This internship will provide you with first-hand experience working with compliance elements such as obtaining permits, wetland evaluations, researching and developing points of view on regulations, and working with outside vendors on similar tasks. POET provides valuable professional training and mentorship to help you succeed in your internship and to help prepare you for a career in Environmental Engineering. Proactive communication, detail orientation, and high organizational skills are critical traits in an Environmental Engineer and something we look for in our interns as well. Be part of the POET team that is growing the biofuels industry to improve the world we share.

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

• Assist with environmental permitting and compliance for Design and Construction projects, including, but not limited to:

  • Air permits for new synthetic minor and PSD sources

  • Title V operating permits Air permit renewals and modifications for existing facilities in support of operational compliance

  • NPDES permits for industrial wastewater Storm water discharge permits, and pollution prevention plan development and implementation

  • Potable Well and Public Water Supply Permits

  • 401 Water Certifications and 404 permits or Nationwide permits for activities in a wetland or floodway

  • FAA Permitting

• Assist with preparing training and guidance documents related to certain environmental regulations.

• Analyze and summarize data pertaining to pollutant controls and releases. 

• Engage with a variety of professionals in the biofuels industry by providing environmental support to other POET groups and facilities. 

• 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 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

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Junior or senior-level student pursuing a bachelor's degree in an Engineering program

• Excellent communication skills and attention to detail.

• Excellent organization and time management skills with a sense of urgency that drives results.

• Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn new programs.

A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE

• High level of personal integrity

• Interpersonal skills – ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization

• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills

• Ability to embrace and promote change

• Innovative mindset

• Ability to think objectively

• Self-awareness in the face of uncertainty

• 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.