Material Handler

About the role

As a Material Handler at POET, you will load dried distillers' grains, ethanol, corn oil, wet cake feed, distiller’s syrup, or biomass into trucks and rail cars. Using mechanical equipment, meters, scales, computers, and software, you will ensure timely delivery and product safety. Based on provided training, you may also grade grain products or biomass. This is an on-site role located in Portland, IN.

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 enter bins adhering to POET’s confined space procedures.
• 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; meet call-in requirements and work extended hours as necessary.
• 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.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Material Handler I: No experience required.
• Material Handler II: Documented successful performance as a Material Handler I or equivalent work experience required.
• Experience in operating heavy machinery, skid loaders, or other heavy loading/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 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 (up to 150 ft), in confined spaces, and in extreme temperatures from -20 to +100 degrees Fahrenheit, both indoors and outdoors.
• Operate equipment/tools including 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 on rough/uneven/wet/slick surfaces, and reach forward, backward, and overhead.
• Use coordination and grip with a force of up to 50 lbs, bend while standing, and climb in/out of powered industrial vehicles.
• Occasionally grip with a force of 40 lbs to prep rail cars, kneel, crouch, pull tools with up to 95 lbs of force, carry up to 40 lbs (sometimes up stairs), and pull with a force of up to 120 lbs.
• Bend forward to fill railcars.
• Subject to a pre-screen physical and drug test; random drug and alcohol testing during employment.

Benefits

• Competitive bonus opportunities—up to six bonuses per year (Quarterly Profit Sharing & Value Share).
• Paid time off and holidays: 40 hours of PTO available on Day 1, plus biweekly PTO accrual.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance with individual and family plans, plus a generous employer Health Savings Account contribution.
• Competitive pay with shift premium pay for qualifying positions.
• 401K with company match.
• Paid parental leave.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Attractive relocation assistance and bonus programs for qualifying positions/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.

Culture & Development

POET fosters a 'family-first' culture with a focus on teamwork, communication, and personal growth. Team members enjoy frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and celebrations. Internal development and growth opportunities are encouraged, with leaders supporting skill development and goal achievement. POET is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment, where employment decisions are based on qualifications, abilities, and merit.