About the role#
Idaho National Laboratory is developing standardized, containerized modular substations that can be transported and installed quickly after disruptions. This internship supports the Risk and Reliability Research team in evaluating how these modules perform under seismic loading and transportation-induced vibration. You will work on-site at the Idaho Falls campus during the summer of 2027.
What you'll do#
- Build and run finite-element models of containerized substation modules using SAP2000, ABAQUS, or INL's MASTODON.
- Assess structural performance under seismic, shock, and transport loading, including the effects of vibration isolation.
- Compare your results against baseline hazard-resistance criteria.
- Summarize findings in technical slides and report sections.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to project documentation.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a Master or Doctorate program in civil, structural, mechanical, or earthquake engineering.
- A minimum overall 3.0 GPA.
- Coursework in structural dynamics, finite element analysis, and earthquake engineering.
- Experience with FEA tools like ABAQUS, ANSYS, or SAP2000 and scripting in Python or MATLAB.
- Familiarity with MOOSE, MASTODON, or other open-source simulation frameworks.
- Knowledge of seismic design standards such as ASCE 7 or IEEE 693.
- Interest in critical infrastructure and power systems.
- Ability to lift and move up to 35 pounds and perform standard office and laboratory physical tasks.
Location & details#
- Location: Idaho Falls, Idaho.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: $35.34 to $41.29 per hour depending on degree level and candidacy.
- Note: Applicants are subject to DOE O 142.3B requirements regarding foreign national access. Sponsorship for H1-B visas is not available.
About Idaho National Laboratory
Idaho National Laboratory is a science-based, applied engineering national laboratory founded in 1949. It supports the United States Department of Energy through research in nuclear science, energy, and national defense. The laboratory operates from an 890-square-mile site and employs over 4,000 people. Its research spans robotics, wind power, biofuels, and critical infrastructure protection.
How to get in at Idaho National Laboratory
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