Post-Undergraduate; Year-Round Intern - Chemical Engineering

Post‑Undergraduate (Year‑Round) Intern – Chemical Engineering

Location:

CO – Golden

Position Type:
Intern (Fixed Term)

Hours Per Week: 40

NLR is located at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains in Golden, Colorado and is the nation’s primary laboratory for energy systems research and development. Join the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR), where world‑class scientists, engineers, and experts accelerate energy innovation through breakthrough research and systems integration. From our mission to our collaborative culture, NLR stands out in the research community for its commitment to an affordable and secure energy future.

Spanning foundational science to applied systems engineering and analysis, we focus on solving complex challenges to deliver advanced, secure, reliable, and cost‑effective energy solutions. Our work helps strengthen U.S. industries, support job creation, and promote national economic growth. At NLR, you’ll find a mission‑driven environment supported by state‑of‑the‑art facilities, multidisciplinary research teams, and strong collaborations with industry, academia, and other national laboratories.

We offer robust professional development opportunities and a competitive benefits package designed to support your career and well‑being.

The Chemical Catalysis and Reaction Engineering group at NLR is seeking full‑time post‑undergraduate candidates to work on‑site, with an expected start date in Summer 2026.

• Benchtop wet chemistry at the milligram‑to‑kilogram scale
• Operation of analytical instrumentation
• Data analysis and interpretation
• Batch and flow reactor operation and maintenance
• Opportunity to contribute to research papers and technical presentations
• Conduct laboratory experiments safely under supervision and move toward more independent work throughout the year

• Minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average
• Undergraduate:
  Must be enrolled as a full‑time student in a bachelor’s degree program from an accredited institution
• Post‑Undergraduate:
  Earned a bachelor’s degree within the past 12 months; eligible for an internship period of up to one year
• Graduate:
  Must be enrolled as a full‑time student in a master’s degree program from an accredited institution
• Post Graduate:
  Earned a master’s degree within the past 12 months; eligible for an internship period of up to one year
• Graduate + PhD:
  Completed master’s degree and is enrolled as a PhD student from an accredited institution

• Demonstrated experience following standard lab safety procedures and setting a safe example in a laboratory setting
• Successful completion of an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, or a related field by the start of the internship
• Demonstrated general laboratory experience and exposure to analytical chemistry, organic chemistry, or biochemistry
• Attention to detail, a fast learner, and excellent time‑management skills
• Ability to work well with a variety of personality types with various levels of technical backgrounds
• Willingness to take direction and work independently to support team goals

• Prior non‑coursework related experience in an undergraduate research lab or internship

Applicants are responsible for uploading official or unofficial school transcripts. If selected for the position, a letter of recommendation will be required. Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.

The anticipated closing window for application submission is up to 30 days and may be extended as needed.

Annual Salary Range (based on full‑time 40 hours per week): $39,600 – $63,400. Salary determination considers education, training, experience, work quality, travel, market, internal alignment, and merit systems.

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; a 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match; and sick leave (where required by law). Eligible performers may receive performance, merit, and achievement awards that include a monetary component. Some positions may qualify for relocation expense…