Process Engineering Manager – Biofuels and Sustainable Technologies

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

Process Engineers are responsible for designing and specifying process systems for site expansions and upgrades at existing or new bioprocessing facilities. Process Engineers at POET collaborate with teams within POET, as well as work closely with vendors and contractors to innovate, optimize and execute successful cutting-edge projects. As an aggressive, nimble company, ideas become reality with haste.

This role is part of a strategic hiring initiative to add over 20 new team members to support our growing organization.

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

• Work collaboratively to prepare bio-based process technology designs including, but not limited to: Block flow diagrams, Process flow diagrams, Piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&ID’s), Material and energy balances, Design selection, Specifying equipment (heat exchangers, pumps, control valves, pressure relief valves, distillation columns, scrubbers, separators, utilities, etc), Development of commissioning and operating procedures
• Communicate with vendors and contractors on various projects, including bid packages, specifications, ordering materials and equipment, and aiding in installation oversight all within a set budget and schedule.
• Review, negotiate, and award vendor contracts and drawings, and work with project teams in defining project needs.
• Assist in new technology research and testing to improve processes.
• Assist with on-site commissioning and start-up activities.
• Provide on-going engineering support to other POET groups and facilities.
• Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.
• At POET, we’re all on the same team. We all help out with responsibilities that may not be specifically listed here.
• In addition to the above responsibilities, experienced engineers will perform advanced technical engineering and leadership functions;
• Instruct junior engineers in the development of process designs.
• Develop new process and process variations that complement POET’s current processes and role in the biofuels industry.
• Estimate costs, personnel and material needs for projects.
• Prepare proposals, write specifications and establish completion dates for equipment, materials, and systems.
  

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering required. Chemical, Process, Agricultural and Biosystems, Mechanical Engineering, or other related majors preferred.
• Experience requirements:
• Process Engineer I: No experience required
• Process Engineer II: 4 or more years of overall experience with 3 or more years of experience in a related industry.
• Process Engineer III: 8 or more years of overall experience with 6 or more years of experience in a related industry.
• Senior Process Engineer: 12 or more years of overall experience with 10 or more years of experience in a related industry.
• The selected candidate’s qualifications and experience will determine the appropriate title.
• You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.
• Knowledge in ChemCAD (process simulation), Delta V, and ARAS is preferred.
  

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

• Is organized, detail oriented and enjoys working collaboratively.
• Resourceful in solving problems.
• Excellent communications skills with ability to adapt to technical and non-technical audiences.
• Demonstrates a never satisfied mindset and engages challenge.
• Ability to effectively work under tight deadlines and manage projects independently.
• Ability to be a leader and an effective role model for fellow team members.
  
  

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Travel is typical for commissioning and startup, meetings, site visits, operational support and trainings. Up to 50% of your time will be spent visiting our bioprocessing facilities and is periodic/intermittent based on project phase.
• In this role, you’ll be asked to drive a POET vehicle. A motor vehicle record check will be conducted during the preemployment process.
• 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.
  
  

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.

Benefits

For eligible team members

• Comprehensive benefits package: Individual and family plans for health, dental, & vision insurance, including a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution
• Quarterly Profit-Sharing Bonuses and Bi-Annual Incentive Bonuses
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions
• 401K with company match
• Paid time off and paid holidays – 40 hours available on day ONE!
• Paid Parental Leave
• Tuition reimbursement
• Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations
  
  

Other Perks

For eligible team members

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

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.