R&D Process Engineering Intern (Summer 2027)

Position Overview The R&D Process Engineering Intern will support research, development, and pilot-scale activities focused on rare earth extraction, separation, and purification. This hands-on internship provides exposure to laboratory experimentation, process development, data analysis, and pilot plant operations within a fast-paced rare earth processing environment. This is an onsite position based in the Company’s laboratory in Wheat Ridge, Colorado.

Key Responsibilities

Support laboratory and pilot-scale experiments related to rare earth extraction, separation, and purification. Assist with experimental design, sample preparation, testing, data collection, and analysis. Support pilot plant operations, including equipment setup, testing, monitoring, and troubleshooting. Perform mass balance calculations and analyze process data to evaluate recovery, efficiency, and product quality. Assist with SOPs, test plans, technical reports, and other process documentation. Collaborate with engineers, technicians, and operations personnel to support process development and scale-up. Follow established safety, quality, and environmental procedures.

Minimum Qualifications

Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related technical field. Relevant coursework in chemistry, metallurgy, chemical processing, mineral processing, or related disciplines. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with an interest in hands-on technical work. Ability to accurately collect, analyze, and communicate technical information. Strong communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Academic, research, project, or internship experience related to hydrometallurgy, extractive metallurgy, mineral processing, or chemical processing. Experience with laboratory equipment, experimental methods, pilot-scale systems, or engineering/data analysis tools. Familiarity with mass balances, proces