About the role#
Tempo is looking for a hands-on Engineering Intern to support the development and experimental validation of our high-temperature thermal energy storage technology. You will work primarily on the SoFuel test stand, an experimental system designed to investigate solid pellet storage, gas-solid heat transfer, granular material flow, and thermal system performance. This role offers the opportunity to work directly with experimental hardware, operate and improve a research-scale test system, analyze test data, and contribute to the development of next-generation energy storage technology.
What you'll do#
- Prepare, set up, and operate the SoFuel experimental test stand under engineer supervision.
- Execute experimental test plans evaluating gas-solid heat transfer, particle flow behavior, and system performance.
- Monitor temperature, gas flow rate, pressure, and particle movement.
- Conduct repeatability tests and evaluate the effects of changing operating conditions.
- Follow operating procedures and safety protocols during testing.
- Set up, calibrate, and troubleshoot sensors and measurement equipment.
- Monitor and record experimental data using data acquisition and control systems.
- Verify data quality, identify measurement anomalies, and maintain organized experimental records.
- Support improvements to instrumentation and data collection procedures.
- Identify and resolve operational issues such as particle clogging, inconsistent flow, temperature fluctuations, and sensor malfunctions.
- Support mechanical modifications, component replacement, and routine test-stand maintenance.
- Evaluate improvements to gas flow control, particle discharge mechanisms, and test-stand reliability with engineers.
- Implement and validate improvements to operating procedures and control sequences.
- Process and analyze experimental data using Excel, Python, MATLAB, or similar tools.
- Generate plots showing temperature profiles, flow behavior, pressure changes, and system performance.
- Compare experimental results across operating conditions.
- Prepare technical summaries, test reports, and presentations documenting results and observations.
- Maintain accurate test logs and document experimental findings and recommended improvements.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a BS or MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, or a related engineering discipline.
- Strong interest in hands-on experimental engineering and laboratory testing.
- Basic understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.
- Familiarity with laboratory instrumentation and data acquisition.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic engineering data analysis.
- Ability to work independently on assigned tasks while collaborating with a multidisciplinary engineering team.
- Good problem-solving, troubleshooting, communication, and documentation skills.
- Willingness to work with experimental hardware in a laboratory environment and follow strict safety procedures.
- Previous experience with experimental test stands, laboratory equipment, or engineering research projects is preferred.
- Experience with thermocouples, pressure sensors, flow meters, valves, or data acquisition systems is preferred.
- Familiarity with Python, Arduino C#, LabVIEW, or similar software for data processing and automation is preferred.
- Experience with mechanical assembly, fabrication, or troubleshooting is preferred.
- Basic understanding of control systems, programmable controllers, or automated test equipment is preferred.
- Experience with high-temperature equipment, furnaces, granular materials, or gas-solid flow systems is preferred.
- Familiarity with CAD software such as SolidWorks is preferred.
Location & details#
- Location: San Diego, California, United States
- Term: Rolling
- Modality: On-site
- Compensation: $30 per hour
About Tempo Innovations
Tempo Innovations develops thermochemical energy storage systems for industrial use. The company operates from San Diego, California, and was founded in 2022. It focuses on replacing fossil fuels in high-temperature industrial heat applications. The team consists of 46 employees.
How to get in at Tempo Innovations
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