Summer Internship OR Semester Co-Op 

Status: Non-Exempt (hourly) 

Department: Fuel cell/electrolyzer R&D, Rochester NY  

Position Summary 

Plug Power Inc. is actively seeking a highly motivated student to join our team. The student will be responsible for assisting Circular Recycling for Hydrogen Economy in a wide variety of initiatives and projects in support of your academic studies and interests. In this role, you will gain exposure to a fast-paced manufacturing and engineering environment which includes developing a detailed understanding of Plug Power’s products. The role will focus on R&D and process development for Fuel cell and Electrolyzer membrane electrode assembly (MEA) recycling – precious metal and ionomer recovery.  

Learning Objectives  

Understand the life cycle of the high value fuel cell and electrolyzer components.  

Gain experience on industrial R&D and process development  

Develop problem solving skills in an industrial approach  

Professional development – teamwork, time management, networking, etc.   

Core Duties and Responsibilities 

Support the R&D activities on fuel cell and electrolyzer MEA, electrode, ink, waste recovery/recycling  

Assist to develop a scalable process for precious metal and ionomer recovery 

Assist to identify the challenges in the process development 

Assist to life cycle analysis and process economic analysis  

Assist to equipment selection and testing 

Assist to prepare progress, status and forecast reports on multiple key aspects of the assigned area of responsibility 

Flexibility and the ability to meet strict requirements to tight schedules 

Work professionally and cooperatively in a cross-functional team environment with a focus upon maximizing novel MEA performance and customer satisfaction 

Represent Plug Power in a professional manner in all interactions; support the philosophy of the organization to provide high-performing technology to maximize customer satisfaction 

Perform all other duties as assigned

Education and Qualification 

Pursuing a Bachelor of Science, Master's or PhD degree in Chemistry, Material Science, Engineering or other STEM field of study required. 

Proficiency in the use of MS Excel and Word is required 

Chemical or mechanical lab experience is a plus 

Experience on data acquisition, processing, and automation is a plus  

Excellent written and verbal communication skills 

Possess solid hands-on approach to problem-solving 

Demonstrated analytical abilities with strong attention to detail 

Excellent follow-through   

Must work effectively within the team to meet objectives under time constraints 

Must be driven and self-motivated  

Estimated Base Salary Range: