Temporary Laboratory Technician

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 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.

PERKS

A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually

'Family-first' culture

On-site fitness centers or fitness reimbursements

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES

As the Temporary Laboratory Technician, you will perform laboratory tests to determine chemical and physical characteristics or composition of plant process samples for such purposes as quality control, process control, or product development by performing the following duties.

Schedule: 7:30 AM - 4 PM, some weekends.

This is an on-site role located in North Manchester, IN. Responsibilities include:

Collects samples for lab analysis at specified locations, stages of processing and time interval. Labels sample containers with identifying data.

Ability to understand and perform lab tests on process samples using wet chemistry methods, microbiological testing and light microscopy techniques. Prepares samples for testing by analytical equipment.

Sets up, adjusts and operates laboratory equipment and instruments such as liquid chromatography, Ion chromatography, NIR, centrifuge, pH meters, chemical balance scales, spectrophotometer and other equipment.

Performs Quality Assurance/Control analysis on instruments, tools and methods.

Performs quality control testing on final products to verify conformity to specifications.

Records test results on standardized form, enters daily test results into plant database and communicates this information to appropriate personnel.

Maintains safety in the lab by using personal protective equipment as needed, proper labeling of chemical containers, being familiar with Material Safety Data Sheets and maintaining cleanliness of lab.

Cleans and sterilizes laboratory equipment.

Calibrates laboratory instruments.

Prepares chemical solutions according to standard formulas.

Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.

Maintain and advance the food safety and quality of POET’s products and processes to deliver a best-in-class culture of quality.

Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skills may be put to a lot of other uses!

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

Completed junior level courses majoring in Chemistry (preferred) or Biochemistry.

Experience working with HPLC, analytical balance, pipettes

Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability of learning 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

FLSA Status: Non-exempt

Revised Date: October 2022

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

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

This role has some physical requirements that our team members will need to be able to perform, such as:

Wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, self-contained breathing system (may be site specific), hazardous material suit, hearing protection.

Working at extreme heights (approximately 150 ft), in confined spaces, and in extreme temperatures from -20 to +100 degrees Fahrenheit, both indoors and outdoors.

Must be able to use the following equipment/tools, with training provided (not all encompassing): forklift, power washer, pallet jack, hoist systems, scissor lifts, JLG lifts, telehandlers, Front End Loaders, various hand tools, and computers.

Frequently:

Sit in a chair in the Lab

Carry to up to 15lbs

Stand indoors to clean and maintain areas

Reach at arm’s length to gather samples

Bend while standing

Use repetitive arm motions to wipe down and maintain work area

Occasionally:

Walk indoors and outdoors sometimes over rough, uneven, or wet/slick surfaces

Climb stairs and/or ladders

Be in awkward back, shoulder, wrists, and hand positions

Bend, twist, turn, kneel, and crouch, while holding light and medium weighted objects

Since we are all about team work, you may be asked to help other roles that have their own unique set of physical requirements.

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!

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.

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.