R&D Engineer Intern

Penn State University•University Park, IL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Penn State’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 manufacturing and characterization of polymers, fiber-reinforced polymer composites, elastomers, and/or multi-material structures. The position is fully on-site in State College. The internship is paid and allows up to 20 hours per week during 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 problems 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, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with applicable electronic and physical monitoring requirements. Employment requires successful completion of background checks. 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 various shop and hand tools, perform precision measurements, and interpret drawings.
Experience collaborating in multidisciplinary, team-oriented settings.
Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements.
Must successfully complete required background checks.

Nice To Haves

Experience using CAD software.
Understanding of the mechanics of composite materials.
Exposure to composites fabrication methods such as wet layup, VARTM/RTM, and prepreg.
Familiarity with advanced equipment ranging from optical microscopy to programmable furnaces and long-term test-equipment monitoring.
Exposure to mechanical testing of materials.
Active security clearance.
Studies in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Sciences, or Materials Science & Engineering are encouraged.

Responsibilities

Perform and support daily fabrication and testing activities in the AMME research facility.
Assist with formal documentation, including written note-taking 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 gages, thermocouples, and accelerometers.
Perform and support fabrication of complex composite parts and multi-material assemblies.
Support other research personnel as needed in small research teams.
Ask a supervisor or team members for guidance when in doubt.
Help maintain a safe, clean, and organized laboratory environment.