Membrane Electrode Assembly (MEA) Intern

Summer Internship OR Semester Co-Op

Status: Non-Exempt (hourly)

Department: MDEV Lab

Term: Spring through Summer

Position Summary

Plug Power Inc. is seeking a highly motivated student to join our team and contribute to the success of our MEA (Membrane Electrode Assembly) Development Lab. In this role, you will assist with a variety of initiatives and projects, gaining hands-on experience in MEA processes and analysis within an engineering environment. The student will develop a comprehensive understanding of Plug Power's products and technologies, while working alongside experienced professionals in the field. This opportunity provides valuable exposure to cutting-edge engineering practices and the chance to contribute to the innovation that drives Plug Power's success.

Learning Objectives

• Learn the key stages involved in the production of a Membrane Electrode Assembly, from ink formulation to final testing.
• Gain hands-on experience in each step of the process, including coatings, die-cutting, lamination, hot pressing, and testing.

Core Duties and Responsibilities

• Ink Formulation Support: Assist in the formulation of inks and catalyst layers, learning how material properties influence the performance of MEAs.
• Material Characterization: Participate in analyzing and testing ink formulations.
• Coating, Die-Cutting, and Lamination: Gain practical experience in applying coating techniques to various MEA components, assist with die-cutting materials to specified dimensions, and learn lamination processes to bond layers together.
• Hot Pressing and Assembly: Support the hot pressing process, observing how temperature, pressure, and time affect the bonding and overall integrity of MEAs.
• Testing and Evaluation: Assist with performance testing of MEA prototypes, including fuel cell testing, and analyze data to evaluate performance.
• Data Documentation and Reporting: Document research activities, test results, and observations in detailed lab notes and assist with preparing reports that summarize findings, progress, and areas for improvement.
• Problem-Solving and Process Optimization: Participate in troubleshooting and resolving challenges encountered during the MEA production process, collaborating with team members to suggest improvements or optimizations.

Education and Qualification

• Pursuing a Bachelor of Science, or a related program
• Must have reliable transportation to the office
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Possess solid hands-on approach to problem-solving
• Demonstrated analytical abilities with strong attention to detail
• Excellent follow-through
• Must be driven and self-motivated

Estimated Base Salary Range: