Summer 2027 Intern - Metallurgical R&D

About the role

ATI is seeking a Research and Development Intern for Summer 2027. This internship will be based at our Natrona Heights Operations. The successful candidate will support engineering and technical teams in a heavy industrial metals manufacturing environment. This internship is designed for students pursuing a degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related technical field. The intern will assist with laboratory testing, process evaluations, material analysis, and continuous improvement projects that support product quality, process efficiency, and new product development.

Responsibilities

• Support research and development projects related to metals processing, alloy development, heat treatment, melting, rolling, finishing, or product performance.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analysis of raw materials, in-process materials, and finished products.
• Assist with sample preparation, chemical analysis, mechanical testing, metallographic evaluation, and data collection.
• Analyze test results and process data to identify trends, performance issues, or opportunities for improvement.
• Support investigations related to product quality, process variation, material properties, or customer requirements.
• Work with engineers, metallurgists, chemists, and operations personnel to evaluate process changes and technical solutions.
• Assist with documentation of experiments, test procedures, technical findings, and project results.
• Participate in plant trials, process audits, and production support activities as needed.
• Follow all safety procedures and environmental requirements while working in laboratory, manufacturing, and plant environments.
• Present project findings, recommendations, or progress updates to technical and management teams.

Requirements

• Currently attending an accredited 4-year college pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior laboratory, manufacturing, or research experience is preferred but not required.

Skills

• Strong interest in metals manufacturing, materials processing, product development, or industrial research.
• Basic understanding of chemistry, material properties, thermodynamics, phase transformations, or mechanical testing concepts.
• Ability to collect, organize, and analyze technical data.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, especially Excel and PowerPoint.

Learning Opportunities

The intern will gain hands-on experience in industrial research and development, materials testing, process improvement, technical problem-solving, and heavy manufacturing operations. This role provides an opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world engineering and materials science challenges.