What You Will Do

Are you passionate about engineering and eager to tackle real-world challenges? Internships with the Automation, Robotics, and Controls group (E-3) offer a unique opportunity to contribute to mission-critical projects that directly support the goals of Los Alamos National Laboratory.

We are seeking outstanding students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds who are driven to make a difference. Selection into our program is competitive and based on academic excellence, relevant experience, and alignment with our program. We welcome applicants from a broad range of applied science disciplines, including but not limited to computer science, physics, aerospace engineering, robotics, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, and electrical engineering.

As an intern with our group, you will work on cutting-edge engineering projects, either independently or as part of a team, under the mentorship of experienced LANL staff. Our mentors are experts in automation, robotics, controls, and programming, and they will guide you as you apply your knowledge to complex, impactful projects.

Past projects have included the development of robotics and automation systems, where students engage with both hardware (electrical/mechanical) and software to solve intricate problems and contribute to broader mission objectives. You will have the opportunity to work with tools and languages such as LabVIEW, programmable logic controllers (PLC), VHDL/Verilog, and the Robot Operating System (ROS), among others.

You may also design and develop custom components like end-effectors, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and mounting brackets, integrating sensors and actuators into your projects. Additionally, you will gain experience in creating essential engineering documents, such as requirements specifications, project plans, and technical drawings.

This internship is more than just a summer job—it's a chance to work on meaningful projects that have real-world applications. You'll gain hands-on experience, enhance your technical skills, and collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the field.

Past student projects include:

• System integration of a ClearPath Ridgeback with Universal Robotics UR5. Then, a material handling demonstration was designed and implemented.

• Design and fabrication of Dual-Axis Radiography Hydrodynamic Test (DARHT) facility control boxes and PCB boards.

• Design and implementation of a teleoperation system using a UR5e for process maintenance in a glovebox.

• Implementation of a robotic foil laser welding system with custom designed end-effector.

• Design and implementation of an autonomous bolting and unbolting system for shipping containers using a FANUC arm.

• Design and implementation of a PLC based material handling conveyor system.

Other benefits of the program include participation in weekly tutorials on a variety of subjects related to process controls, automation, and robotics engineering such as LabVIEW programming, signal processing, machine learning, shop equipment, cable fabrication, and robotic motion planning. Students will apply learned concepts presented in these tutorials to their respective projects. Professional development activities like team building, resume reviews, interviewing skills, and graduate school discussions provide soft skills and career path advice to round out the program.  Tours of various LANL facilities such as the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) and Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test (DAHRT) are scheduled throughout the summer.

Students graduating before prior to September 2026 will be considered for the highly acclaimed Robotics & Automation Summer School (RASS). RASS is an internship program focusing on developing a prototype in a multi-disciplinary team. Those prototypes will be showcased to LANL management. RASS interns may have the opportunity to interview with hiring managers upon completion of the program. In addition, RASS teams will compose a paper which will be submitted to an industry conference for presentation. If accepted, reimbursement of travel costs for the conference presentation will be provided. Participation in RASS will place students in a strong position for future employment opportunities at LANL.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

• Must be currently enrolled or accepted into an accredited graduate program in any engineering or applied science discipline including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, nuclear engineering, materials engineering, aeronautic engineering, and robotic engineering

• Must be enrolled in at least 6 semester credit hours (or full-time equivalent) during the fall and spring semesters. Students preparing to begin a graduate program of study must provide documentation indicating matriculation into an appropriate degree program

• Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)  

• Must demonstrate the ability to communicate (verbally and written) well in a professional scientific context.

Application Requirements:

 To apply, please submit the following documents:

1. ​​Resume

2. One-page Cover Letter
   Your cover letter should address the following:

1. Your interest in the robotics and automation internship, particularly in the development of multi-disciplinary autonomous/robotic systems.

2. Your near-term academic and professional goals (1–3 years).

3. How your experience and qualifications align with the desired qualifications for this internship.

3. Complete Transcripts

Important Deadlines: All application materials must be submitted by January 6, 2025. Please note that only complete applications—those including all three required documents—will be considered. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by February 7, 2025.

Desired Qualifications:

• Student selected for GRA internships in engineering and applied sciences are most competitive when they possess some of the following knowledge and skills:  

• Eagerness and demonstrated record of working as a member of small teams to accomplish tasks safely and efficiently   

• Experience designing, fabricating, and assembling electronic, mechanical, or robotic systems  

• Computer programming in support of engineering design, data acquisition, analysis, robot control, or machine learning

• Interest in the areas of Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), Human Machine Interface (HMI) operation, LabVIEW, and communication protocols  

• Computer Aided Design (CAD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) experience  

• Basic knowledge of, and the ability to, fabricate, test, and document electronic control systems  

• Ability to troubleshoot and repair electrical and electronic equipment using common electronics bench instrumentation, such as Digital Multimeters (DMMs), and/or oscilloscopes  

• Ability to use standard shop tools such as soldering irons, crimpers, electric screwdriver, punches, etc.  

• Laboratory or shop experience demonstrating an attention to detail and commitment to safety, security, and quality

Resources for Applicants: 

•  Discover application and interview tips at https://lanl.jobs/creative/about-faq.

• Applicants may send any questions about the program to rass@lanl.gov 

• For technical assistance, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call 1-505-665-4444 option 1.

Work Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.

Work Schedule: The durations of the internship and the work schedule will vary based on the availability of the intern and mentor, and the internship project needs. 

Work Environment: At Los Alamos National Laboratory we believe everyone is essential in solving global challenges. We believe inclusive diversity promotes innovation, enhances problem-solving, and make us a more successful and productive organization. Every unique voice brings something valuable to the conversation and everyone’s ideas and opinions are welcome and respected. Read more about Inclusion and Diversity at Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Where You Will Work

Located in beautiful northern New Mexico, Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is a multidisciplinary research institution engaged in strategic science on behalf of national security. Our generous benefits package includes:

•   PPO or High Deductible medical insurance with the same large nationwide network

•   Dental and vision insurance

•   Free basic life and disability insurance

•   Paid childbirth and parental leave

•   Award-winning 401(k) (6% matching plus 3.5% annually)

•   Learning opportunities and tuition assistance

•   Flexible schedules and time off (PTO and holidays)

•   Onsite gyms and wellness programs

•   Extensive relocation packages (outside a 50 mile radius)

Additional Details

Directive 206.2 - Employment with Triad requires a favorable decision by NNSA indicating employee is suitable under NNSA Supplemental Directive 206.2.  Please note that this requirement applies only to citizens of the United States.  Foreign nationals are subject to a similar requirement under DOE Order 142.3A.

Clearance:   Q  (Position will be cleared to this level).  Selected applicants will be subject to a background investigation conducted by or on behalf of the Federal Government, and must meet eligibility requirements* for access to classified matter. This position requires a Q clearance. and obtaining such clearance requires US Citizenship except in extremely rare circumstances. Dependent upon the position, additional authorization to access classified information may be required, which may or may not be available to dual citizens.  Receipt of a Q clearance and additional access authorization ultimately is a decision of the Federal Government and not of Triad.

*Eligibility requirements:  To obtain a clearance, an individual must be at least 18 years of age; U.S. citizenship is required except in very limited circumstances. See DOE Order 472.2 for additional information.

New-Employment Drug Test: The Laboratory requires successful applicants to complete a new-employment drug test and maintains a substance abuse policy that includes random drug testing.  Although New Mexico and other states have legalized the use of marijuana, use and possession of marijuana remain illegal under federal law. A positive drug test for marijuana will result in termination of employment, even if the use  was pre-offer.

Internal Applicants: Regular appointment employees who have served the required period of continuous service in their current position are eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the required period of continuous service, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. Please refer to Policy Policy P701 for applicant eligibility requirements.

Equal Opportunity: Los Alamos National Laboratory is an equal opportunity employer and supports a diverse and inclusive workforce. All employment practices are based on qualification and merit, without regard to race, color, national origin, ancestry, religion, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status or spousal affiliation, physical or mental disability, medical conditions, pregnancy, status as a protected veteran, genetic information, or citizenship within the limits imposed by federal laws and regulations.  The Laboratory is also committed to making our workplace accessible to individuals with disabilities and will provide reasonable accommodations, upon request, for individuals to participate in the application and hiring process. To request such an accommodation, please send an email to applyhelp@lanl.gov or call 1-505-664-6947 option 2 and then option 3.

How to Apply:

Follow the instructions below if you have ever had an employee Z number, been a contractor, or received Los Alamos Lab insurance coverage to activate your account:

• Select the Click Here button if you have been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage.

• Please enter only your first and last name and current email address (an email with your validation code will be sent to you) to activate the account currently in our system.

•  Enter your validation code as described in the email you receive and complete the 3-page registration form. Your account is now active, and you can apply for jobs or save to your basket. Important: Enter the validation code within 15 days to activate your account or your account will be deactivated.

Follow the instructions below if you if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to create an account:

• Select the Register button if you have never been employed with the Lab or received insurance coverage to Create an Account.

• From here, you will establish an account with username and password.

How to Apply: Login to Your Account to Complete the Application Process

• Click the Vacancy Name number (in blue) to view any job’s details.

• Click Apply or Add to Basket to apply later. Tip: To apply for a job or save your basket, you must have a LANL jobs account.

If you experience any technical issues, please email applyhelp@lanl.gov for assistance.