Mechanical Engineering Co-op / Internship

Who You Are

Six month internship where you’ll assist the Concept Development team in the design and development of R&D equipment to scale the production of novel energy storage nanomaterials. Our team is tasked with taking ideas for novel battery materials from the research team and turning them into a viable business for Sila. This means developing a cost-effective process, with reliable equipment for a product with a clear competitive advantage.

Responsibilities and Duties  

• Contribute to the design and development of new R&D equipment. 
• You will learn about complex, multidisciplinary technical systems (for instance: interconnected electronic, mechanical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems).
• Support manufacturing operations using lean manufacturing principles. 
• Root cause investigations.
• Continuous improvement of production line
• 5s
• Change management
• Develop prototypes to de-risk the scale-up of manufacturing equipment. (for instance: a test setup to better understand filtration of nanoparticles from a liquid.) 
• You will learn to work with process, manufacturing and technician teams.  
• Thorough documentation and presentation of results, with conclusions and recommendations, to deliver to engineering mentors and management.

Knowledge and Skill Requirements 

• Ability to make a six month commitment to working and developing skills at Sila (in Alameda, CA).
• Studying toward (or recently received) a degree in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering or similar. Interests in mechatronics, manufacturing, chemical equipment, mechanical design, and/or start ups is a plus. 
• Exceptional analytical and documentation skills.
• Capable of working independently with direction.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

• Wear personal protective equipment including, but not limited to, a lab coat, gloves, safety glasses, and steel toe safety shoes
• Move items up to 50 lbs with the assistance of lift equipment and carts
• Move long distances (such as from building to building) and be stationary for extended periods of time
• Precise and repetitive handling of a range of material quantities
• Operate a computer and other office equipment, such as a laptop, copier/printer, etc in a fixed location.

The starting base pay for this role is between $20/hr and $25/hr at the time of posting. The actual base pay depends on many factors, such as education, experience, and skills. Base pay is only one part of Sila’s competitive Total Rewards package that can include benefits, perks, and equity.  The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future. This role may also be eligible for overtime.