Material and Chemical Laboratory Intern

About the Role

As a Material and Chemical Laboratory Intern, you will serve as a laboratory and engineering assistant, performing advanced measurements on MAHLE components, including automotive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and engine cooling products. This position will take place at Lockport, NY.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine and non-routine materials science and metallographic sample preparation.
• Conduct chemical analysis and physical and mechanical testing.
• Support corrosion laboratory activities, including preparation and monitoring of test solutions, sample preparation, and hands-on assistance with environmental testing chambers.
• Compile and analyze measurement data and present results in formal reports and presentations.
• Assist Materials, Chemical, and Mechanical Engineering teams with special projects.
• Maintain accurate sample identification with strict adherence to lab and site procedures and accurate reporting of test results.
• Interface with engineers and other stakeholders to understand test requirements and procedures to effectively perform requested tests.
• Work with multiple test bench operations.
• Perform basic metallographic work, including sample cleaning, sectioning, mounting, polishing, and imaging.
• Prepare samples and/or specific parts to specified tolerances, samples, and tests according to ASTM and/or other print specifications (Customer & MAHLE standards).
• Operate and maintain physical testing, metallographic preparation, and support equipment in the laboratory, including specialized measuring and testing equipment (surface finish, fatigue testers, tensile tests, ovens), abrasive cut-off saws, mounting presses, Brinell and Rockwell hardness testers, micro hardness tester, manual and automatic metallographic polishing machines, chemicals, and cleaning processes.
• Assist with setup and monitoring of corrosion tests and exposure solutions with heat exchangers and components (e.g., evaporator, condenser, heater core), including leak testing of heat exchangers during and after test runs.
• Help operate and investigate airside and coolant side corrosion tests (e.g., salt spray tests, climate corrosion tests, coolant circulation bench tests).
• Observe consistency in test data, interpret basic results, and report any irregularities to Corrosion or Material engineers.
• Take direction from Material or Corrosion Engineer or other Supervisor for daily assignments.
• Keep work area clean and orderly.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Proficient in PC-based software, including Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office.
• Familiar with basic statistics, chemistry, and mechanical engineering principles.
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to prepare routine reports, procedures, and correspondence.
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts, including proportions, percentages, geometry, and algebra, to support laboratory activities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions and effectively communicate in both verbal and written formats.
• Weekly Working Hours: 40
• Salary: $19-21/hour

Qualifications

• None explicitly listed beyond "Your Experience & Qualifications."

Note: MAHLE is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment-based non-immigrant and immigrant visas.

For more information about MAHLE and what a career with us looks like for you, click here.

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