Building Systems Engineering Intern Jobs in Athens, OH

The Engineering Intern supports product testing, process documentation, equipment readiness, and general engineering activities within a multidisciplinary environment. This role provides hands-on experience applying engineering concepts learned through academic coursework while contributing to testing, data analysis, troubleshooting, and operational support activities.

Key Responsibilities

Product Testing & Data Analysis

• Perform characterization and performance testing on Sunpower products.
• Record, analyze, and document test data and observations.
• Prepare accurate documentation of performance results and testing activities.

Process & Documentation Support

• Assist with process document tracking, revision control, linking, identification, and auditing.
• Support administrative activities, including data collection and data entry.
• Maintain organized records and documentation to support engineering and operational needs.

Equipment & Operational Support

• Develop and maintain critical spare parts inventories for production and test equipment to support operational readiness and minimize downtime.
• Determine appropriate troubleshooting methods based on equipment and component requirements.
• Perform modifications, fabrication, and fixturing activities using a variety of tools, including hand tools and laser engraving equipment.
• Support additional engineering and operational activities as assigned.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work effectively within a matrixed organization and multidisciplinary team environment.
• Apply a broad range of engineering principles to support testing, troubleshooting, and process improvement activities.
• Present information, findings, and project updates to peers, leaders, and management as needed.

AI Utilization

• Demonstrate the ability and willingness to use AI tools to improve productivity, decision-making, work quality, and cost reduction.
• Identify appropriate AI use cases and critically evaluate AI-generated outputs.

Requirements

Education

• Currently pursuing a relevant undergraduate or master's degree in:
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering
• Industrial Technology
• Or a related field of study

Technical Qualifications

• Ability to apply engineering concepts learned through academic coursework.
• Strong writing skills with the ability to accurately document testing results, observations, and performance data.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to support data collection, data entry, and documentation activities.

Core Competencies

• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, matrixed organization.
• Flexibility to collaborate across multiple disciplines and project areas.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to receive complex instructions and execute tasks accurately, efficiently, and in a timely manner.

Working Environment

• This position may be part-time or full-time.
• Workload will be determined based on candidate availability, academic course load, and internship requirements.
• Expected work schedule:
• 10 to 20 hours per week during the academic year.
• 30 to 40 hours per week during academic breaks.
• Candidates must be able to frequently lift objects up to 10 pounds and occasionally lift objects up to 20 pounds.
• No travel is required for this position.

Additional Information

• Sunpower requests a copy of the candidate's transcript prior to the interview process.
• GPA in core coursework will be considered as part of the selection process but will not be the sole selection criterion.

About Sunpower

Sunpower, based in Athens, OH, is looking for a Manufacturing Engineer Intern. The ideal candidate will be a junior or higher majoring in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering, or Industrial Technology. The ability to quickly learn and apply new knowledge in dynamic situations is critical. The position could result in a multiple semester position and may lead to a full-time placement after graduation.

Since our founding in 1974, Sunpower has been the world leader in free-piston Stirling technology. Sunpower has implemented free-piston technology in our commercial line of CryoTel cryocoolers and our aerospace Stirling cryocoolers and Stirling engines. Sunpower's Engineering services include production of spaceflight cryocoolers and design, development, and fabrication of prototype free-piston Stirling machines. Sunpower's has strong ties to the local community including a long history of connections and collaboration with Ohio University.  Our founder and the inventor of our technology is a former OHIO professor, and ~25% of our current staff are OHIO graduates. Including graduates from Hocking College and local high schools, more than half of our staff can be traced to the Southeast Ohio community. Learn more about us at www.sunpowerinc.com.