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

The Process Automation Engineer is responsible for supporting, design, implementation, and specification of industrial plant automation systems and associated tasks. The Process Automation Engineer works under the close guidance of Senior Engineers to complete assignments and develop knowledge and skills. The Process Automation Engineer has knowledge of commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within their field.

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:

• Designs detailed control loops and strategies involving system design, configuration, testing, cutover, and startup.
• Develop and optimize current automation techniques, processes and architecture for process automation and automation control across multiple sites.
• Provides support and service to existing Distributive Control Systems (DCS) installations.
• Supports, with limited supervision, the installation/setup of control systems.
• Troubleshoot hardware/software surrounding the control system.
• Ensure compliance with local, regulatory, corporate and business standards for system hardware and software.
• Configure Emerson Delta V control systems, including:
  • System and software design
  • Programming and configuration
  • Sequence and interlock logic
  • Graphic configuration
  • Database development
  • Documentation
• Provide on-going engineering support to other Poet groups and facilities
• Troubleshoot/debug software and hardware issues (after-hours work may be necessary depending on the situation).
• Document hardware and software designs.
• Prepare proposals, write specifications and coordinate installation of equipment, materials, and systems.
• Provide a working knowledge of hardware and software life cycles.
• Meet all safety, budget, and schedule requirements.
• Assist in new technology research and testing to improve processes.
• Assist with on-site commissioning and start-up activities.
• Develop process control/automation system user training and act as a mentor to system users to ensure understanding.

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Bachelor of Science degree is preferred in Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science or a related field.
• Experience requirements:
  • Process Automation Engineer I: No experience required
  • Process Automation Engineer II: 4 or more years of overall experience with 3 or more years of experience in a related industry.
  • Process Automation Engineer III: 8 or more years of overall experience with 6 or more years of experience in a related industry.
  • Senior Process Automation 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 and experience in DCS/Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) controls, networks (Wireless, Ethernet, DeviceNet, Profibus, and AS-Interface), and various communication platforms.
• Knowledge and experience in various programming, script languages, and Open Platform Communication (OPC).
• Knowledge and experience in reading electrical schematics and troubleshooting simple electrical circuits.
• Demonstrated high-level troubleshooting capabilities to provide technical support for daily operations.

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.
• Motivated to learn and create innovative and efficient control strategies.
• Ability to manage multiple objectives in a large professional department.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to embrace change.
• Ability to work in a fast paced, high-energy environment.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Travel is typical for commissioning and startup, meetings, site visits, operational support and training. Up to 50% of your time will be spent visiting our bioprocessing facilities and is periodic/intermittent based on project phase. Occasionally overnight travel will be required.
• 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.