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Physics Summer Internship Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Physics Summer Internship information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a physics summer intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Physics Summer Intern, you generally need a solid understanding of fundamental physics concepts, analytical problem-solving skills, and progress toward a relevant degree such as physics or engineering. Familiarity with data analysis software (like MATLAB or Python), laboratory equipment, and sometimes basic programming is typically expected. Curiosity, teamwork, and strong communication skills help interns contribute effectively and learn from mentors. These skills ensure interns can actively participate in experiments or projects, communicate findings, and maximize the learning and contribution opportunities during the internship.

What types of projects do interns typically work on during a physics summer internship?

During a Physics Summer Internship, interns often engage in hands-on research projects, data analysis, or experimental work under the guidance of experienced physicists. Projects may range from assisting in laboratory experiments, running simulations, to supporting ongoing theoretical research. Interns usually collaborate with graduate students and research staff, gaining valuable exposure to professional scientific methodologies and teamwork. This experience provides a solid foundation for future academic or industry careers in physics.

What is a physics summer internship?

A Physics Summer Internship is a temporary, typically paid or unpaid position designed for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in the field of physics. These internships usually take place over the summer months and are offered by universities, research institutions, and private companies. Interns work under the guidance of experienced physicists on real-world projects, often involving laboratory work, data analysis, or theoretical research. The primary goal is to provide practical training, enhance understanding of physics concepts, and help interns explore potential career paths in physics or related fields.

What is the difference between Physics Summer Internship vs Physics Research Assistant?

AspectPhysics Summer InternshipPhysics Research Assistant
Required CredentialsUndergraduate status, relevant courseworkUndergraduate or graduate student, specialized knowledge
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, labs, industry settingsResearch labs, academic institutions
Employer & Industry UsageCompanies, research institutions, universitiesUniversities, research centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The Physics Summer Internship provides undergraduate students with hands-on experience in industry or research labs during summer, focusing on gaining practical skills. The Physics Research Assistant role typically involves assisting faculty or researchers in ongoing projects, often requiring more specialized knowledge. Both roles are valuable for building research experience, but internships are more structured for short-term exposure, while research assistant positions may be longer-term and more in-depth.

What are the most commonly searched types of Physics Summer jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Physics Summer jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Physics Summer Internship jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Physics Summer Internship jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Physics Summer Internship jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Physics Summer Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Physics Summer Internship job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Returning Relay Tech (Carolinas) Internship - Summer 2027

Duke Energy Corporation

Raleigh, NC

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Duke Energy rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 167 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 86 rated oil and gas companies


Job description

Important Application Submission Information

In order to ensure your application is successfully received before the job posting expires, please submit your application by 11:59 PM on Monday, August 17, 2026More than a career - a chance to make a difference in people's lives.

Build an exciting, rewarding career with us - help us make a difference for millions of people every day. Consider joining the Duke Energy team, where you'll find a friendly work environment, opportunities for growth and development, recognition for your work, and competitive pay and benefits.

Program Location for 2026:Potential opportunities at locations across our footprint: North Carolina and South Carolina

The Relay Construction and Maintenance department executes the design packages developed by the Transmission Engineering department for the construction of substation and transmission facilities throughout the Duke Energy service area. This department is also responsible for ensuring grid reliability by executing the day-to-day operations and maintaining the protective relays and SCADA control systems in compliance with state and federal regulations. Relay Technician Interns will work alongside Journeymen and Apprentice level Relay Technicians to get exposed to the technical skills and safety focused work behaviors necessary to be proficient in this profession.

Responsibilities

  • Develops understanding of the fundamentals of relaying, protective schemes, controls, alarms, distribution SCADA, communications

  • Develops basic isolation procedure writing

  • Develops understanding of how to utilize print reading, red mark process

  • Develops understanding of RTS and its use

  • Develops understanding of NERC compliance and importance for accurate data and timely completion

  • Develops basic trouble shooting skills

  • Develops the ability to think methodically and arrange activities in logical order

  • Develops basic understanding of CT and VT circuits

Basic/Required Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled and pursuing a two or four year degree in Engineering Technology or a related major

  • Duke Energy Intern/Co-op Experience

  • At least 18 years of age prior to beginning employment with Duke Energy

  • Cumulative GPA of at least 2.75

  • Must not graduate prior to August 2026

  • Valid driver's license

Desired Qualifications

  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher

  • Students must have completed 12 credit hours with specific courses: Introduction to Electrical Utilities, Electrical Utility Print Reading, Physics/Trig for Relay Technicians, Introduction to CAD

  • Demonstrated excellent written and oral communication skills

  • Demonstrates ability to provide the quantity and quality of work necessary to reach an accomplishment

  • Demonstrated leadership qualities through effective decision making

  • Works effectively with others from diverse backgrounds to achieve a common goal

  • Ability to deliver superior results within an allocated time though effective prioritization, scheduling, planning and execution of assigned work

  • Demonstrates tenacity by remaining persistent in the face of adversity

  • Demonstrated technical proficiency in the use of computers, software, and engineering applications

  • Desire to pursue a career in the energy industry

Working Conditions

  • Onsite Mobility Classification - Work will be performed at a company facility

  • Ability to pass a pre-employment background check and pass a pre-employment drug test

  • Depending on work location, may be required to meet requirements for unescorted access/security clearance

  • Exposure to mechanical, electrical, noisy and/or other hazards

  • Exposure to Carrier and Tone equipment

  • Required to wear personal protective equipment (hardhat, safety glasses, appropriate clothing, ear plugs, fall protection, etc.), as needed

  • Ability to lift 50 pounds

  • Ability to work at heights and from suspended work platforms

  • Required to work in all areas of the power plant

Travel Requirements

Relocation Assistance Provided (as applicable)NoRepresented/Union PositionNoVisa Sponsored PositionNo. This is not a Visa Sponsored Position. This role requires the ability to work lawfully in the U.S. without employment-based immigration sponsorship, now or in the future.
Please note that in order to be considered for this position, you must possess all of the basic/required qualifications.

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About Duke Energy

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Duke Energy, a Fortune 150 company headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., is one of America’s largest energy holding companies. Our electric utilities serve 8.2 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, and collectively own 50,000 megawatts of energy capacity. Our natural gas unit serves 1.6 million customers in North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Ohio and Kentucky. Our company employs 28,000 people.

Industry

Utilities

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1904