Material Handler

About the role

As a Material Handler at POET, you will be responsible for loading dried distillers' grains, ethanol, corn oil, wet cake feed, distiller’s syrup, or biomass into trucks and rail cars. This on-site role, located in Fairmont, NE, involves using mechanical equipment, meters, scales, computers, and software to ensure timely delivery and product safety. Based on provided training, you may also complete the grading of grain products or biomass.

Responsibilities

• Load trucks and rail cars with feed and fuel products using mechanical equipment, meters, and scales to ensure timely delivery.
• Assist with grain product or biomass and supply truck unloading functions.
• Complete the grading of grain products or biomass using provided training.
• Operate large machinery and equipment; may require obtaining DOT certification.
• Maintain a clean work area and adhere to POET’s confined space procedures when entering bins.
• Complete HAZMAT paperwork when necessary.
• Learn, maintain, and operate all processes associated with the grains operation, including repair and maintenance.
• Remove, install, rebuild, lubricate, and clean equipment associated with the grains process.
• Perform preventative maintenance tasks as directed.
• Work outdoors, weekends, and holidays as required, including meeting call-in requirements and extended hours.
• Assist with running the bioprocessing facility scale house and learn required software applications.
• Work in an honest and ethical manner; maintain confidentiality on all business-related matters.
• Foster a culture of safe behavior and environmental compliance.
• Maintain a team environment and champion POET in the community.
• Maintain and advance the food safety and quality of POET’s products and processes.

This role follows a Day Shift 3-2-2-3 rotation schedule.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience requirements:
  • Material Handler I: No experience required.
  • Material Handler II: Documented successful performance as a Material Handler I or equivalent work experience required.
• Experience and knowledge in the operation of heavy machinery, skid loaders, or other associated heavy loading or material-moving equipment preferred.
• Experience in truck loading and unloading, including rail tank car and tanker truck preferred.
• DOT certification preferred.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite basics and ability to learn new programs.

Skills

• High level of personal integrity.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact effectively at all organizational levels.
• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to embrace and promote change.
• Innovative mindset and ability to think objectively.
• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.
• Self-awareness in the face of uncertainty.
• Ability to work in a team environment.

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, steel-toed boots, self-contained breathing systems, hazardous material suits, hearing protection, and harnesses.
• Work at extreme heights (approximately 150 ft), in confined spaces, and in extreme temperatures from -20 to +100 degrees Fahrenheit, both indoors and outdoors.
• Operate equipment/tools including various hand tools, skid loaders, scoop shovels, pipe wrenches, impact wrenches, air hoses, shuttle wagons, payloaders, and Trackmobiles for extended periods.
• Frequently:
  • Climb step ladders and/or stairs.
  • Walk indoors and outdoors, sometimes over rough, uneven, or wet/slick surfaces.
  • Reach forward, backward, and overhead to fill railcars.
  • Reach at arm’s length to gather samples.
  • Assume awkward back, shoulder, wrist, and hand positions.
  • Use coordination and grip with a force of up to 50 lbs.
  • Bend while standing.
  • Climb in and out of Powered Industrial Vehicles.
• Occasionally:
  • Grip with a force of 40 lbs to prep rail cars.
  • Kneel, crouch, and pull tools with a force of up to 95 lbs.
  • Carry up to 40 lbs, sometimes up stairs, with or without assistance.
  • Pull with a force of up to 120 lbs, with or without assistance.
  • Bend forward to fill railcars.

Due to the physical and safety-sensitive nature of this job, you will be subject to a physical and must pass a drug screen during the pre-screen process. Random drug and alcohol testing will occur during employment.

Benefits

• Competitive bonus opportunities – up to six bonuses per year (Quarterly Profit Sharing & Value Share).
• Paid time off and paid holidays – 40 hours of PTO available on Day 1, plus a biweekly PTO accrual program.
• Comprehensive benefits package including individual and family plans for health, dental, and vision insurance, with a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution.
• Competitive pay, including shift premium pay for qualifying positions.
• 401K with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Attractive Relocation Assistance and Bonus Programs for qualifying positions and/or locations.
• Safety and cold weather gear reimbursements.
• Discounted home and auto insurance.
• Multifaceted wellness program encompassing mental, physical, and spiritual well-being.
• Onsite fitness centers or fitness reimbursements.

POET offers a 'family-first' culture, frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and a focus on work-life balance.

Growth & Development

POET encourages internal development and growth, allowing team members to carve their own path to success. Leaders provide resources to develop skills, achieve goals, and create value. Compensation is determined based on unique qualifications and skillset.