Engineering Lab Internship (Summer 2026)
Aquatech is a global leader in water treatment and critical minerals processing technology. Over more than 45 years of process engineering experience, the company has developed deep expertise in lithium refining for a range of lithium-ion battery chemistries. Following its acquisition of Li-Pro, a commercially proven direct lithium extraction (DLE) technology, Aquatech developed the PEARL platform—Purification, Extraction, and Refining of Lithium—a full-flowsheet solution that converts lithium-bearing brine into battery-grade lithium products. Aquatech is actively commercializing the PEARL platform to support the growing global demand for domestic and reliable lithium supply.
Position Summary
Aquatech has an immediate opening for a PEARL Lab Intern based in our Canonsburg, Pennsylvania laboratory. This is a full-time, in-office internship in which the intern will support pilot-scale lithium process development and laboratory operations. The PEARL Lab Intern will gain hands-on experience operating and troubleshooting pilot equipment, collecting and analyzing process data, and supporting scale-up efforts for industrial separation systems. The intern will work closely with experienced engineers and technicians in a fast-paced, applied engineering environment focused on real-world deployment.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist with the setup, operation, and monitoring of pilot-scale lithium process equipment.
- Support integrated system testing, troubleshooting, and process optimization activities.
- Collect, log, and analyze process data, including flow rates, pressures, temperatures, and chemical dosing information.
- Support mass balance calculations, process performance tracking, and test documentation.
- Assist with laboratory sample preparation and analytical testing.
- Help maintain pilot and laboratory equipment, organize the lab workspace, and update standard operating procedures (SOPs).
- Participate in safety meetings and contribute to safe laboratory and pilot-area practices.
- Support preparation of technical summaries, internal reports, and test records.
Preferred Skills and Qualifications
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Basic understanding of mass balances, fluid systems, and process equipment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with additional data analysis tools is a plus.
- Demonstrated research, laboratory, or internship experience through coursework or prior employment.
Internship Details
Aquatech internships are full-time, in-office positions requiring five days per week and 40 hours per week. This internship is temporary employment for a maximum duration of ninety (90) days. Successful completion of the internship will provide valuable experience in the water treatment and lithium processing industries and serve as a strong addition to the intern’s professional background.
Essential Functions
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above and below are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the role.
Physical Demands
This role requires exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. The position also requires standing for extended periods of time during pilot and laboratory activities.
Minimum Qualifications
Candidates must be currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, environmental engineering, or a related field, with an expected graduation date no later than June 2027. Research or laboratory experience gained through coursework or a previous internship is required.