Job Summary

The Advanced Engineering Lab in the Applied Ocean Physics and Engineering Department is currently searching for an Engineering Assistant intern to work with a cross-disciplinary team focused on developing biogeochemical sensors and instrumentation for ocean and environmental applications. Areas of interest include the ocean carbon system, coral reef health, microplastics, sea level rise, and deep ocean exploration. Significant duties include designing, prototyping, testing, and characterizing various sensor systems on the lab bench. Daily tasks will include experiments and calibration to assess the performance of sensing systems. Familiarity with optics or optical sensing and/or ocean sensors is a plus. Strong experimental skills, a desire to learn, and ability to document results are required.

Job Description

This is a six-month internship position designed to encourage the connection and application of academic training to results-oriented projects in support of scientific and research activities. This position will have direct supervision to achieve structured and assigned objectives. The candidate will be expected to work on tasks requiring creativity and independent thinking.  The candidate will have expertise with physical or chemical laboratory experimentation through either a recognized degree or through experience in a previous position.

The internal working title for this position will be Engineering Assistant III.

Essential Functions & Duties

• Laboratory experimentation and troubleshooting of optical sensing systems.
• Analysis and summarizing of experimental results.
• Signal processing of sensor outputs (curve fits, smoothing, peak detection, etc.)
• Knowledge of or ability to learn rapid prototyping tools (3D printing, laser cutting, water jetting)
• Algorithm development and coding in Python and/or Matlab

Preferred Experience & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or scientific discipline with applied hands on experience with analytical equipment.

Additional Job Requirements

Physical Requirements

• Lifting/carrying less than 25lbs
• Moderately sedentary

Sea Duty

• No

Travel

• No

Work Authorization/Security Clearance

• No

Is a cover letter required as part of this application process?

• No

WHOI accepts applications on a rolling basis - applications will be reviewed as they are received, and we encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible to ensure full consideration. While we will continue to review applications until the position is filled, and early applicants may have an advantage in the selection process.

EEO Statement

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. 

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.