Summary

The Plant Technician is responsible for the operation of all plant processing equipment and performing routine basic maintenance in a highly automated chemical facility. Plant Technicians are responsible for the safe and efficient maintenance, basic repair, and cleaning of all equipment associated with bioprocessing processes. Team members are required to maintain knowledge of the process flow, computerized equipment, and be aware of hazards associated with the process as well as understand and execute standard operating procedures (SOPs). Continuous plant operation requires 12-hour shift work. This is an on-site role located in Marion, OH.

Job description

Job Summary & Responsibilities

The Plant Technician is responsible for the operation of all plant processing equipment and performing routine basic maintenance in a highly automated chemical facility. Plant Technicians are responsible for the safe and efficient maintenance, basic repair, and cleaning of all equipment associated with bioprocessing processes. Team members are required to maintain knowledge of the process flow, computerized equipment, and be aware of hazards associated with the process as well as understand and execute standard operating procedures (SOPs). Continuous plant operation requires 12-hour shift work. This is an on-site role located in Marion, OH.

Maintain and operate all processes associated with the plant where required
Perform maintenance and basic repairs of plant equipment and document these activities
Operate the DCS (Distributed Control System) for the plant
Safely perform basic electrical troubleshooting
Follow procedures for plant start-up, shut-down, cleaning, and batching
Maintain accurate and timely logs
Collect and test quality control samples, interpret QA/QC results and make adjustments to optimize plant operations
Assist in removal, installation, rebuild, and performance of preventive and predictive maintenance on all equipment
Follow the sanitation schedule and complete all tasks as assigned
Notify the management team of safety, environmental, quality and production concerns
Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance
Maintain and advance the food safety and quality of POET's products and processes

Qualifications & Skills

High school diploma or equivalent required
Working knowledge in math, reading comprehension and mechanical reasoning required
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills are required
Experience with software systems, such as Maximo, preferred
Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills
Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
Capable of learning new programs

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

This role has physical requirements including wearing Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), 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 equipment/tools such as forklift, power washer, pallet jack, hoist systems, scissor lifts, JLG lifts, telehandlers, Front End Loaders, various hand tools, and computers. Frequent sitting, walking, carrying up to 15lbs, climbing stairs/ladders, standing, reaching, bending, and repetitive arm motions. Occasional lifting up to 50lbs, carrying up to 40lbs, pushing with 10lbs force, pulling with up to 85lbs force, bending, twisting, turning, kneeling, and crouching. Subject to a physical and drug screen during pre-screen process and random drug and alcohol testing during employment.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required
Working knowledge in math, reading comprehension and mechanical reasoning required
Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills are required
Experience with software systems, such as Maximo, preferred
Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills
Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite
Capable of learning new programs
Plant Technician I: experience in a production environment preferred
Plant Technician II: Documented successful performance as a Plant Technician I or equivalent work experience required
Plant Technician III: Documented proficiency in the skills listed in the Plant Technician III Skills Checklist

Benefits

Bonus Opportunities
Paid Time Off
Paid Holidays
Medical, Dental & Vision
Health Savings Account
401(k) Matching
Paid Parental Leave
Tuition Reimbursement
Relocation Assistance
Safety Gear Reimbursement
Discounted Insurance
Wellness Program
Onsite Fitness Centers

Company overview

POET is the world's largest producer of biofuel and a global leader in sustainable bioproducts, founded in 1987 and headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The company operates 35 bioprocessing facilities across the Midwest, three corporate offices, four terminal locations, and employs nearly 2,600 team members. POET specializes in creating plant-based alternatives to fossil fuels, leveraging biotechnology to convert renewable agricultural resources into bioethanol, distillers grains, corn fermented protein, distillers corn oil, bioCO2, dry ice, purified alcohol, and asphalt rejuvenator. With more than 140 U.S. patents, POET has established itself as an innovator in the biotechnology sector, focusing on reducing dependence on foreign oil, revitalizing global agriculture, and creating sustainable energy solutions. The company's integrated business model combines research and development with expertise in design, construction, technology, operations, public affairs, and marketing, positioning it as a comprehensive leader in the renewable energy and bioproducts industry.