Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell R&D Intern

Summer Internship OR Semester Co-Op

Status: Non-Exempt (hourly)

Department: Fuel cell R&D, Rochester NY

Position Summary

Plug Power Inc. is actively seeking a highly motivated student to join our team. The student will be responsible for assisting the PEM (proton exchange membrane) fuel cell research and development in a wide variety of initiatives and projects in support of your academic studies and interests. In this role, you will gain exposure to a fast-paced manufacturing and engineering environment which includes developing a detailed understanding of Plug Power's products. The role will focus on research and development of new proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell membrane electrode assembly (MEA).

Learning Objectives

• Understand the fuel cell industry, its trends and challenges

• Gain experience on fuel cell and electrochemical research and development

• Develop problem solving skills in an industrial approach

• Professional development - teamwork, time management, networking, etc.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist to benchmark the novel MEA performance and reliability

• Support fuel cell MEA fabrication, testing and diagnostics at both the single-cell and stack levels

• Assist the MEA Material Development Team on qualification of new MEA designs and components

• Assist to prepare progress, status and forecast reports on multiple key aspects of the assigned area of responsibility

• Flexibility and the ability to meet strict requirements to tight schedules

• Work professionally and cooperatively in a cross-functional team environment with a focus upon maximizing novel MEA performance and customer satisfaction

• Represent Plug Power in a professional manner in all interactions; support the philosophy of the organization to provide high-performing technology to maximize customer satisfaction

• Perform all other duties as assigned

Education and Qualification

• Pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Master's or PhD degree in Electrochemistry, Chemistry, Material Science, Engineering or other STEM field of study required.

• Proficiency in the use of MS Excel and Word is required

• Chemical or mechanical lab experience is a plus

• Experience on data acquisition, processing, and automation is a plus

• Possess solid hands-on approach to problem-solving

• Demonstrated analytical abilities with strong attention to detail

• Excellent follow-through

• Must work effectively within the team to meet objectives under time constraints

• Must be driven and self-motivated