Engineering/Project Management Intern - Watertown, SD

Department: Operations
Reports To: Senior Project Manager
Pay: $24.00 per hour
Location: Watertown, SD (periodic travel to Glacial Lakes Energy ethanol production facilities in Mina, Aberdeen, and Huron, SD)

Position Summary:

The Engineering Project Management Intern supports plant-wide and corporate improvement initiatives across multiple ethanol production facilities. This position assists in planning, coordinating, and tracking capital and process improvement projects to enhance operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The intern will gain hands-on experience in project management, data collection, and cross-functional collaboration within the renewable fuels industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist project managers and plant leaders with the planning, scheduling, and execution of capital and process improvement projects.
• Collect and organize project documentation, drawings, quotes, and equipment specifications.
• Support the development and maintenance of project timelines, budgets, and progress reports.
• Participate in site visits to observe project implementation, verify progress, and assist with contractor coordination.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to identify improvement opportunities.
• Assist with vendor communications, purchase order requests, and cost tracking.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts through data analysis and field observations.
• Uphold all company safety policies and participate in safety meetings and training.

Qualifications:

• Working toward a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, or a related field. (Juniors or Seniors are preferred)
• Strong organizational and analytical skills with attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross-functional team.
• Experience with AutoCAD or other computer aided design (CAD) software or similar experience.
• Willingness to travel to plant locations as project needs require (up to 25%).

Learning Outcomes:

• Exposure to ethanol production processes and project management methodologies.
• Practical experience managing capital and operational projects in an industrial environment.
• Development of professional communication and leadership skills across multiple facility teams.
• Understanding of safety, environmental, and regulatory considerations in ethanol manufacturing.