Post-Undergraduate; Year-Round Intern - Chemical Engineering

Description

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. This intern will provide researchers within our group the support necessary to safely achieve their cutting‑edge research focused on reaction discovery for lignin depolymerization and upgrading. The successful candidate will perform hands‑on tasks and experimentation in a laboratory setting including but not limited to:

• 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 moving towards more independent work throughout the year

Adaptability and an aptitude for learning are critical in this role. This is an excellent opportunity for a candidate invested in the NLR mission who desires relevant laboratory experience in preparation for graduate school or a future career in a related field. Interdisciplinary collaboration and a relentless pursuit of advancing understanding at the intersection of fundamental science and industrial application is paramount to every member of our team.

• Minimum 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 enrolled as PhD student from an accredited institution.

Applicants are responsible for uploading official or unofficial school transcripts as part of the application process. Must meet educational requirements prior to employment start date.

• Demonstrated experience following standard lab safety procedures and setting a safe example in a laboratory setting.
• Successful candidate will have completed an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, or 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 have excellent time management skills.
• Work well with a variety of personality types with various levels of technical backgrounds.
• Be willing to take direction and work independently to support team goals.

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

Annual salary range: $39,600 – $63,400.

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; 403(b) Employee Savings Plan with employer match (based on eligibility rules); and sick leave where required by law. Internships projected to be less than 20 hours per week are not eligible for medical, dental, or vision benefits.

NLR is subject to Department of Energy (DOE) access restrictions. All employees must also be able to obtain and maintain a federal Personal Identity Verification (PIV) card as required by Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD‑12), which includes a favorable background investigation. Intern assignments extending beyond six months will be subject to this requirement.

NLR is committed to maintaining a drug‑free workplace in accordance with the federal Drug‑Free Workplace Act and complies with federal laws prohibiting the possession and use of illegal drugs. Under federal law, marijuana remains an illegal drug. If you are offered employment at NLR, you must pass a pre‑employment drug test prior to commencing employment. Unless prohibited by state or local law, the pre‑employment drug test will include marijuana.

If you test positive, your offer of employment may be withdrawn.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age (40 and over), color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin/ancestry, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, and any other applicable status protected by federal, state, or local laws.

For information about right to work, see E‑Verify in English or Spanish. E‑Verify is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This business uses E‑Verify in its hiring practices to achieve a lawful workforce.