Materials Engineering Internship Summer 2027

About the role

The Naval Nuclear Laboratory is seeking enthusiastic Materials Engineering students to join our team to develop the next generation of materials for nuclear propulsion systems, support projects currently being designed and built, and provide technical support for the U.S. Navy’s operating nuclear power plants. Join a team of experienced engineers with a long history of solving challenging problems.

Responsibilities

• Design, coordination, and documentation of material test programs
• Analysis and modeling of test program data
• Hands-on application of advanced materials characterization or nondestructive testing laboratory techniques
• Integration with suppliers responsible for fabrication and manufacturing of parts
• Consultation on emergent issues

Areas of interest include manufacturing, mechanical properties, processing, forging, metal working, and specifications of core and plant components and systems, with focused opportunities to support integration of additively manufactured materials.

The ability to communicate, coordinate, and integrate with many stakeholders is necessary.

Program highlights

• Final presentation to management, peers, and other NNL employees
• Meet directly with NNL General Manager and Executive Leadership
• Partnership with a mentor
• Opportunity to tour local NNL site facilities
• Trip to a Naval Shipyard for a guided tour
• Extensive networking opportunities

Requirements

• Pursuing Materials Engineering, Welding Engineering or related engineering or science BS, MS or PhD degrees from an accredited college or university
• Must have completed at least first full year of college by May 2027
• Enrolled/continuing in a degree program throughout this internship

Students must attach most recent unofficial college transcripts and resume (including anticipated graduation date) to the employment application.

Preferred Skills

• Cumulative minimum GPA 3.0/4.0
• Prior related internship, co-op or work experience (paid or volunteer)
• Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Defense (DOD) or Naval Nuclear Program experience
• Knowledge of both mechanized or manual welding processes or nondestructive testing

Pay

Pay Range: $25.00/hour–$42.50/hour. Salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hourly salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.

Schedule

The NNL Internship is a 10–12 week program starting in May/June 2027. An internship position may result in a return internship or full-time employment offer upon successful completion of the program.

Flexible work schedules and 9/80 work schedule option (every other Friday off). Hybrid work schedule may be available.

Stipend for qualified applicants (school and home address must be >50 miles from assigned work location).

Benefits

• Competitive Salary
• Defined Contribution Retirement Plans:
  • 401(k) Plan with company match
  • Capital Accumulation Plan (CAP) with company contribution