Undergraduate Technical Intern - METALLIC LIFT
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is hosting a Minerals to Materials Supply Chain Research Facility (METALLIC) Laboratory-to-Industry-For Talent (LIFT) internship program. METALLIC is a Department of Energy (DOE) initiative led by the National Energy Technology Laboratory and supported by a consortium of nine national laboratories. METALLIC LIFT is an emerging workforce development effort that embeds workforce development directly into the critical minerals and materials (CMM) innovation ecosystem, providing a key pathway to careers in the supply-chain ecosystem. LIFT is designed to deliver impact immediately by creating career interest while building durable talent pipelines aligned with DOE priorities. It strategically leverages DOE national laboratory capabilities to drive institutional capacity, create jobs, and pave pathways to CMM careers in the Lab system and with industry.
About the role
The METALLIC LIFT internship begins on September 28, 2026, at either the Richland or Seattle campus. Interns must be available to start on that date and work on-site. During the academic year, interns are required to work between 10 and 15 hours per week.
Responsibilities
- Support multidisciplinary research and program activities focused on strengthening domestic critical minerals and materials supply chains.
- Work alongside scientists, engineers, and program managers from PNNL and partner national laboratories to advance technology validation, testing, analysis, and stakeholder engagement efforts.
- Contribute to novel bench-scale separation technologies, scale-up activities, and a diverse range of characterization techniques.
Requirements
- High school diploma/GED or higher.
- Degree-seeking undergraduate students enrolled at an accredited college or university with at least sophomore academic standing by September 28, 2026.
- Taking at least 6 credit hours with an overall cumulative GPA of 2.50.
- Must be able to start on September 28, 2026, and work during the academic year and summer.
Qualifications
- Preferred: Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Demonstrated interest in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related fields.
- Demonstrated interest in critical minerals and materials research.
- Relevant coursework in Chemistry, Engineering, or related disciplines.
About PNNL
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) is a world-class research institution powered by a highly educated, diverse workforce committed to the values of Integrity, Creativity, Collaboration, Impact, and Courage. PNNL offers an exciting research environment, excellent benefits including health insurance, and flexible work schedules. Located in eastern Washington State, the Lab’s campus is near stellar outdoor recreation and affordable living, with convenient access to Seattle and Portland via a 45-minute flight or ~3-hour drive.
Security and Eligibility
As a national laboratory, PNNL adheres to Homeland Security Presidential Directive 12 (HSPD-12) and Department of Energy (DOE) Order 473.1A, requiring new employees to obtain and maintain a HSPD-12 Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Credential. This involves a federal background investigation and favorable adjudication. All tiers of investigation include a declaration of illegal drug activities, including use, supply, possession, or manufacture within the last 1 to 7 years (depending on the tier). Marijuana and cannabis derivatives are considered illegal under federal law, regardless of state laws.
Foreign national candidates who have not resided in the U.S. for three consecutive years are not eligible for the PIV credential and must obtain a favorable Local Site Specific Only (LSSO) Federal risk determination. After meeting the three-year residency requirement, a PIV credential will be required.
The DOE prohibits employees and contractors from having any affiliation with the government of a "country of risk" without explicit approval. Disclosure and recusal or approval from DOE and Battelle are required prior to employment.
Benefits
- Employee assistance program and business travel insurance.
- Eligibility for a company-funded pension plan and 401k savings plan (once eligibility requirements are met).
Pay
Minimum Salary: USD $17.13/Hr. Maximum Salary: USD $27.02/Hr.