Engineering Support Specialist Intern

Penn State University•University Park, IL

8d•Onsite

About The Position

The Materials Science and Applications (MSA) Division in the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking motivated undergraduate engineering students to join our research team! You will become part of a team conducting a wide range of R&D projects involving next-generation materials and processes, focused on meeting the needs of critical applications. The MSA Division works with a broad range of materials, including polymers, metals, ceramics, and semiconductor materials. The team also emphasizes the development of advanced manufacturing methods that enable the transition of these materials to real-world applications. (Please note that you must be a U.S. citizen to apply.) Student engineering interns typically work 5–10 hours per week during the semester and up to 40 hours per week over the summer. MSA collaborates with students to determine a schedule that accommodates classes and other academic obligations. Exact pay is determined based on the number of credits completed. Students majoring in the following are encouraged to apply: Physics, Chemistry, Materials Science and Engineering (MatSE), Engineering Science and Mechanics (ESM), Electrical Engineering (EE), Mechanical Engineering (ME), and Chemical Engineering (ChemE). MSA Engineering Intern Activities: Operation of advanced manufacturing equipment Setup and execution of experimental designs Materials and coatings process development Device fabrication utilizing novel nanofabrication techniques Material characterization using microscopy, spectroscopy, and other analytical techniques Application testing of components and devices under simulated real-world conditions Data collection, analysis, and reporting of experimental results Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to solve engineering challenges Development and optimization of prototypes for critical applications Research and documentation of emerging technologies and materials Maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment Participation in technical presentations and discussions

Requirements

Basic knowledge of engineering concepts and the scientific method
Basic proficiency in using hand tools (e.g., tape measures, hammers, pliers, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc.)
Proficiency in using Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
Strong presentation, interpersonal, and communication skills
Ability to maintain organized and detailed notes
Ability to work effectively as part of a project team
Willingness to learn and adapt to new tools, techniques, and technologies
Basic understanding of safety protocols in laboratory or manufacturing environments
Ability to conduct literature reviews and summarize findings related to materials science and engineering topics
Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines
Enthusiasm for hands-on work and experimentation

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) or simulation tools (optional but preferred)
Basic programming or scripting skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, or similar) for data analysis or automation tasks

Responsibilities

Operation of advanced manufacturing equipment
Setup and execution of experimental designs
Materials and coatings process development
Device fabrication utilizing novel nanofabrication techniques
Material characterization using microscopy, spectroscopy, and other analytical techniques
Application testing of components and devices under simulated real-world conditions
Data collection, analysis, and reporting of experimental results
Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to solve engineering challenges
Development and optimization of prototypes for critical applications
Research and documentation of emerging technologies and materials
Maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment
Participation in technical presentations and discussions