Bioprocessing Student - Lab Technician

About the role

As a Laboratory Technician Student, you will perform laboratory tests to determine chemical and physical characteristics or composition of plant process samples for quality control, process control, or product development.

This is an on-site role located in North Manchester, IN with a schedule of 7:30 AM - 4 PM, including some weekends.

Responsibilities

• Collects samples for lab analysis at specified locations, stages of processing, and time intervals. Labels sample containers with identifying data.
• Understands and performs 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 forms, enters daily test results into the 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 the lab.
• Cleans and sterilizes laboratory equipment.
• Calibrates laboratory instruments.
• Prepares chemical solutions according to standard formulas.
• Fosters a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance at all times.
• Maintains and advances the food safety and quality of POET’s products and processes to deliver a best-in-class culture of quality.

Requirements

• 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 to learn new programs.

Qualifications

• 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.
• 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

• 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: 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 up to 15 lbs.
  • Stand indoors to clean and maintain areas.
  • Reach at arm’s length to gather samples.
  • 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.

Benefits

• A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually.
• Family-first culture.
• On-site fitness centers or fitness reimbursements.

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 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.

Culture is king at POET. We’re all on the same team, always communicate, and park our egos at the door. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance, optimizing health, wellness, and productivity sustainably. We work hard, play hard, and have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and celebrate wins.

POET encourages 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 value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization.

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.