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 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

PNNL is seeking undergraduate students for an internship at either the Richland or Seattle campus, beginning on September 28, 2026. 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.
• Engage in 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 Qualifications:
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
  • Demonstrated interest in chemistry, chemical engineering, or related field.
  • Demonstrated interest in critical minerals and materials research.
  • Relevant coursework in Chemistry, Engineering, or related fields.

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 and excellent benefits, including health insurance and flexible work schedules. Located in eastern Washington State, the Lab’s campus is near stellar outdoor recreation and offers an affordable cost of living, with convenient access to Seattle or Portland.

Benefits

• Employee assistance program and business travel insurance.
• Eligibility for a company-funded pension plan and 401k savings plan (for regular hourly employees, once eligibility requirements are met).

Pay

Minimum Salary: USD $17.13/Hr. Maximum Salary: USD $27.02/Hr.