About the role#
The Research Engineering Intern supports various projects within the research department, specifically focusing on air-to-water heat pump retrofits in residential buildings. You will work under the supervision of a research analyst and project managers to conduct fieldwork, perform data analysis, and document findings. This position offers exposure to building science research and energy efficiency practices in Minnesota.
What you'll do#
- Attend research meetings and review relevant literature.
- Conduct site visits in the Twin Cities metro area to perform testing and instrumentation of residential buildings.
- Analyze data from field measurements and draft technical reports.
- Present findings to internal teams and project stakeholders.
- Contribute to proposals and technology assessments.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
What you'll need#
- Enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate program for mechanical engineering, physics, or architecture.
- Background in construction, HVAC, or building science.
- Prior coursework or job experience in a technical or analytical field.
- Experience documenting research and technical problems.
- Strong communication skills and experience with stakeholder engagement.
- Attention to detail and a collaborative approach.
- Curiosity regarding building energy systems.
- Basic knowledge of heat transfer, thermodynamics, or fluid mechanics is helpful.
- Experience with HVAC testing, instrumentation, or programming large data sets is a plus.
Location & details#
- This is a part-time position, up to 20 hours per week.
- The role is hybrid, with office time in the North Loop of Minneapolis and field work throughout the Twin Cities.
- Interns must be able to lift up to 35 pounds regularly and occasionally handle equipment weighing 35 to 50 pounds.
- Field work requires working outdoors in various weather conditions and settings.
- The term lasts 16 weeks, starting in January 2027, with the possibility of continuing through Summer 2027.
- Undergraduate pay is $21.50 per hour, and graduate pay is $24.50 per hour.
About Center for Energy and Environment
The Center for Energy and Environment is a nonprofit organization based in Minneapolis. It focuses on clean energy and energy efficiency through research, policy, and consulting. Founded in 1989, the organization employs between 51 and 200 people. It works on community-based solutions to improve environmental quality and the economy.
How to get in at Center for Energy and Environment
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