Legal Intern - Summer 2027

Location: Sioux Falls, SD

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 humanly possible. For over thirty-five 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. We always communicate. And we park our egos at the door. These aren’t just slogans on our walls. It’s the way we do things at POET. We provide an environment for team members to maintain a healthy work-life balance. It’s the best way to optimize health, wellness, and productivity in a sustainable way. We work hard. We play hard. We have frequent team events, volunteer efforts, and we know how to celebrate wins!

JOB SUMMARY & RESPONSIBILITIES The Legal Intern may assist with strategic regulatory policy advocacy and serve as a contributor on business and legal strategy, facilitating and influencing optimal outcomes for the company arising from federal and state-level regulatory policy affecting the biofuels industry.

This is an onsite position in Sioux Falls, SD. Responsibilities include:

Research, track, and interpret applicable statutes, rules and regulations, including those related to international, federal, state, and local climate programs.  Provide legal analysis regarding pending or proposed legislation, administrative rules, and other regulatory or legislative items

Engage with and direct POET’s affiliated trade associations with respect to strategic regulatory advocacy and litigation campaigns.

Provide advice and guidance to POET business teams on regulatory compliance issues affecting POET’s business including energy, environmental, transportation, product safety, international trade, and alcohol

Work with the POET Legal team to develop and provide applicable legal/compliance training to the POET organization, and work with executives to ensure adherence to corporate policies.

At POET, we’re all on the same team.  We all help out with responsibilities that may not be specifically listed here.

STRENGTHS OF A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE

Full time student enrolled in an educational institution pursuing a Juris Doctorate law degree.

Completion of first year of law school

Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills as well as the ability to adapt to change

You know the basics of Microsoft Office Suite. You’re capable of learning new programs.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Some travel, to include overnights, may be required for this position.

Specific physical requirements may include:

Sitting for approximately 90% of the time while working on a personal computer.

Occasionally lifting weights of fifty (50) pounds or less.

GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES At POET, we encourage 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 the most value. We believe in developing our team members to their highest potential and recognizing contributions that add value to the organization. Each new team member’s position and compensation are carefully determined by considering their unique qualifications and skillset.

PERKS A multifaceted wellness program encompassing the whole person – mentally, physically, and spiritually

On-site fitness centers or fitness reimbursements

Safety and cold-weather gear reimbursements

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. This policy applies to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, benefits, working conditions, promotion, and termination.