Co-Op, Breakthrough Technologies

Shape Your World At Alcoa, you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it, every Alcoan is a work-shaper, team-shaper, idea-shaper & world-shaper. Are you ready to kickstart your career with a company that’s revolutionizing sustainability and low-carbon innovation? At Alcoa, we’re not just imagining the future—we’re building it.

Join our Breakthrough Technologies Co-Op Program and become part of a team that’s transforming aluminum and redefining how the world lives, builds, moves, and flies.

As a Co-Op, you’ll dive into hands-on projects that matter. You’ll work alongside world-class engineers and scientists at the Alcoa Technical Center (ATC), contributing to cutting-edge research and development in materials and processes.

• Synthesizing ceramic powders and processing advanced materials
• Operating high-temperature furnaces and conducting performance testing
• Characterizing materials and analyzing data using industry-standard software
• Designing and executing experiments to optimize equipment and processes
• Publishing a formal internal report to showcase your findings

We’re seeking junior or senior-level students who are passionate about innovation and eager to grow in a dynamic technical environment. Ideal candidates are pursuing degrees in:

• Chemical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Ceramic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Or related science fields

• Strong organizational, math, and writing skills
• Curiosity and drive to solve real-world challenges
• A collaborative mindset and a desire to make an impact

Spring/Summer 2027 or Summer/Fall 2027 semesters

Multiple positions available

Located at the Alcoa Technical Center (ATC) in New Kensington, PA

Ready to shape your world?

Every day is a new and exciting challenge at the Alcoa Technical Center in New Kensington, PA, just north of Pittsburgh. We develop new technologies with our Breakthrough Technologies team that has the potential to impact the life of millions of people and foster the sustainable footprint from Alcoa to the world. It was here where we developed the technology recently announced in partnership with Rio Tinto, called ELYSIS™, where we will produce aluminum with ZERO emission of greenhouse gases.

In fact, we will actually be generating oxygen to our atmosphere during the aluminum production process- a revolution to the aluminum industry! We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress.

Our commitment s to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate. As a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer, Alcoa is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a person’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, nation of origin, disability, veteran status, language spoken or any other characteristic or status protected by the laws or regulations in the places where we operate.

If you have visited our website in search of information on U.S. employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at  This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!

Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better. Shape your Career at Alcoa! As an Alcoan you are part of a global team committed to advancing sustainability and delivering excellence and innovation. As a values-based company, we Act with Integrity, Operate with Excellence, Care for People, and Lead with Courage. Join us and become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress.

We treat all people with dignity and we believe in inclusion, diversity and enabling all employees to grow and develop their careers with us, where they can pursue their passions. Discover the possibilities a career with Alcoa can have for you. Come shape your career with us! Careers @ Alcoa Sustainability @ Alcoa