About the role#
The Project Management Internship at POET offers a balanced experience within the construction and engineering trades. You will gain exposure to construction methods and terminology while working in both the office and the field. This role provides insight into the design-build process and the relationships between owners, engineers, project managers, subcontractors, and suppliers. You will report to a Project Manager and work under the supervision of a Project Superintendent.
What you'll do#
- Update engineering staff on project progress through reports and meetings.
- Monitor construction activity for accuracy against project plans.
- Assist with site safety monitoring and foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance.
- Track project equipment and materials while working to improve receiving and dispersal efficiency.
- Participate in project coordination and pre-construction meetings.
- Assist in project commissioning by working with internal teams, vendors, and subcontractors.
- Communicate with project managers and subcontractors regarding construction sequencing, delivery schedules, and drawing clarifications.
- Manage project punch lists and help complete outstanding tasks.
- Create documents or tools to support project management processes.
- Maintain a team environment and represent POET in the community.
What you'll need#
- Junior or senior-level college student or recent graduate with a bachelor’s degree, preferably in Civil, Mechanical, or Industrial Engineering or Construction Management.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Experience in the construction field or related engineering areas.
- Knowledge of concepts, practices, and procedures within your engineering field.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and the ability to learn new software programs.
- Strong scheduling, organizational, and budget management skills.
- Effective interpersonal, time management, and problem-solving skills.
- A high level of personal integrity, an innovative mindset, and the ability to think objectively.
- Ability to embrace change and work effectively in a team environment.
Location & details#
- Location: Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
- Modality: On-site.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Employment type: Full-time.
- This is a paid internship.
- Physical requirements include the ability to walk two or more miles per day, climb stairs and ladders, and lift up to 60 pounds. You may work at heights, in confined spaces, and in temperatures ranging from -20 to 100 degrees. PPE is required.
About POET
POET produces biofuel and sustainable bioproducts from plant-based materials. The company operates 34 bioprocessing facilities across eight states. It employs 1,958 people and maintains headquarters in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The organization holds over 140 patents in biotechnology.
How to get in at POET
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