Compliance and Assurance Intern

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 Compliance and Assurance Intern supports the tax and compliance team in monitoring adherence to federal prevailing wage requirements and identifying indirect tax recovery opportunities. This role assists with wage determinations, payroll reviews, reverse sales and use tax audit activities to help ensure regulatory compliance and maximize tax savings.

This is an on-site role located in Sioux Falls, SD. Responsibilities include:

Data Auditing & Validation:

• Help track compliance with federal, state, and local prevailing wage regulations.

• Assist in preparing reports and summaries for internal compliance reviews.

• Identifying methods that improve data accuracy and compliance tracking.

• Coordinate with project managers, contractors, and accounting staff to resolve wage classification or documentation questions.

• Assist with identifying potential sales and use tax overpayments through review of vendor invoices and purchase data.

• Maintaining accurate records, generating audit reports, and assisting in the submission of compliance documentation.

Compliance:

• Ensuring adherence to internal policies, industry standards and regulatory requirements.

• Supporting training of team member groups on relevant regulations and company policies.

• Support the preparation of schedules and documentation for reverse sales and use tax audits and refund claims.

Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Collaborating with other teams, including procurement and operations, to gather accurate data.

• Assisting in the procurement process, including supporting the supplier contracting process and establishing and maintaining relationships with vendors and subcontractors.

• Supporting procurement and compliance teams with administrative tasks, such as generating reports and data input.

• Communicating with suppliers and internal teams to resolve discrepancies or missing information.

Since we’re all about teamwork and getting the job done, your skill may be put to a lot of other uses!

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

• Junior or Senior level student seeking a bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, Business, or a related field.

• Demonstrated customer service, organization, and time management skills.

• Strong focus and precision, with keen attention to detail and the ability to maintain accuracy in repetitive tasks.

• Effective communication, both in writing and in person.

• Knowledge of the basics of Microsoft Office Suite and the ability of learning new programs.

A SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE

• A high level of personal integrity

• Interpersonal skills – the ability to effectively interact with individuals at all levels within/outside the organization

• Demonstrated problem-solving and critical thinking skills

• The ability to embrace and promote change

• An innovative mindset

• The ability to think objectively

• Self-awareness in the face of uncertainty

• The ability to work independently and in a team environment

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• This position operates in an office environment, working at a personal computer where you may sit or stand. Most of our Sioux Falls office workspace consists of an open-concept design intended to promote open communication and collaboration.

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.