R&D Engineer Intern

Penn State University•University Park, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State is seeking an R&D Engineer Intern for its Materials for Extreme Environments Department. The department develops and evaluates advanced materials, manufacturing processes, and engineering solutions for demanding operational environments. The intern will work alongside engineers, scientists, technologists, and technical specialists on hands-on research and development projects supporting the U.S. Navy, the Department of Defense, and other government customers. The position is intended for students enrolled in engineering, engineering technology, science, manufacturing, machining, welding, industrial technology, or related technical programs at Penn State or another accredited institution. Students from all academic years are encouraged to apply, and previous research or industry experience is not required. Work assignments will reflect students’ interests, experience, and completed coursework. Students typically work part-time during the academic year, with schedules arranged around classes and other academic obligations. Increased hours may be available during academic breaks and the summer, depending on project needs and student availability. Work is fully on-site in State College, Pennsylvania, at ARL laboratories and facilities on or near the Penn State University Park campus.

Requirements

Currently enrolled at Penn State or an accredited technical school, community college, college, or university.
Studying engineering, engineering technology, manufacturing, machining, welding, materials, industrial technology, science, or a related technical field.
Interest in hands-on laboratory, manufacturing, fabrication, testing, or equipment-related work.
Basic ability to safely use hand tools and measuring instruments, or willingness to learn.
Ability to follow written procedures and verbal instructions.
Ability to maintain organized and detailed notes.
Ability to express ideas and observations clearly to drive understanding.
Experience collaborating in team-oriented environments through school, employment, military service, clubs, athletics, or other activities.
Must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
Must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance and participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with applicable electronic and physical monitoring requirements.
Must successfully complete required background checks.

Nice To Haves

Coursework or experience involving materials, manufacturing, mechanical systems, chemistry, physics, or engineering design.
Experience with machining, welding, fabrication, coatings, additive manufacturing, automotive work, equipment maintenance, or similar hands-on activities.
Experience using CAD, 3D printing, data-acquisition, spreadsheet, or technical drawing software.
Familiarity with laboratory testing, materials characterization, or mechanical measurement tools.
Experience gained through technical education, school laboratories, student design teams, internships, employment, military service, hobbies, or independent projects.

Responsibilities

Prepare samples, build prototypes, conduct tests, and support laboratory experiments alongside engineers and technical staff.
Prepare metallic, ceramic, polymer, composite, and coated specimens through cutting, grinding, polishing, cleaning, and masking.
Assist with materials processing, coatings, surface preparation, heat treatment, additive manufacturing, machining, welding, and fabrication activities.
Help design, build, assemble, and modify test fixtures, experimental hardware, and prototype components.
Operate laboratory and manufacturing equipment under the supervision of experienced staff.
Conduct mechanical, thermal, environmental, and surface-property testing.
Assist with materials characterization using microscopy, spectroscopy, profilometry, and other analytical methods.
Configure sensors, pumps, vacuum hardware, compressed-gas systems, and data-acquisition equipment.
Collect and organize test data, photographs, measurements, and observations.
Maintain organized laboratory notes and assist with technical summaries and presentations.
Troubleshoot equipment and experimental setups with guidance from engineering and technical staff.
Maintain safe, clean, and organized laboratory and work areas.