R&D Engineer Intern
About The Position
Penn State University's Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) is seeking a motivated R&D Engineer Intern to join its Polymer Composite Manufacturing (PCM) team. The intern will support research activities across the Advanced Manufacturing and Materials Engineering (AMME) Division, including the manufacturing and characterization of polymers, fiber-reinforced polymer composites, elastomers, and/or multi-material structures. This is a paid internship, fully on-site in State College. The intern may work up to 20 hours per week during the fall and spring semesters, with the opportunity to work up to 40 hours per week over the summer. Relocation and housing are not provided. ARL researches and develops solutions to scientific, engineering, and technology challenges in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense, and the Intelligence Community. Applicants must be U.S. citizens and eligible to obtain a government security clearance. Employment also requires successful completion of background checks and participation in ARL's drug testing program, as well as compliance with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply.
Requirements
- Experience fabricating and/or repairing fiber-reinforced composite materials.
- Working knowledge of materials and structures, especially polymer resins and adhesives.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Project, and ability and willingness to learn new computer programs.
- Ability to operate shop and hand tools, perform precision measurements, and interpret drawings.
- Experience collaborating in multidisciplinary, team-oriented environments.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance.
- Must successfully complete required background checks and participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with applicable electronic and physical monitoring requirements.
Nice To Haves
- Experience using CAD software.
- Understanding of the mechanics of composite materials.
- Exposure to composites fabrication methods, including wet layup, VARTM/RTM, and prepreg.
- Familiarity with advanced equipment, from optical microscopy and programmable furnaces to long-term monitoring of test equipment.
- Exposure to mechanical testing of materials.
- An active security clearance.
Responsibilities
- Perform and support daily fabrication and testing activities in the AMME research facility.
- Assist with formal documentation, including written notes and photography.
- Follow written and verbal instructions and report issues to a supervisor.
- Report progress to principal investigators and other engineering personnel.
- Work with engineers to plan, design, fabricate, and assemble new parts and equipment.
- Work on interdisciplinary teams.
- Read and interpret technical data sheets, drawings, procedures, and instructions.
- Troubleshoot malfunctioning laboratory equipment.
- Install and use instrumentation such as strain gauges, thermocouples, and accelerometers.
- Support fabrication of complex composite parts and multi-material assemblies.
- Support other research personnel as needed in small research teams.
- Ask questions and consult supervisors or teammates when in doubt.
- Help maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
