Electrochemical Engineer Co-op

Energy Heroes Gmbh - Boston, MA

Full-time - Intern

Boston, MA

About the position

Found Energy is seeking co-ops to assist in the scaling up of their hydrogen generation reactor systems for both minimum viable product (MVP) and commercial pilot demonstrations. The role involves optimizing electrochemical subsystems, designing and testing prototypes, and ensuring adherence to safety protocols. Co-ops will work closely with cross-functional teams to enhance reactor performance and contribute to the development of sustainable energy solutions.

Responsibilities

• Design, build, and test electrochemical reactor prototypes in support of reactor scale-up and pilot projects.
• Analyze batch and time-series reactor data to optimize reactor design and operating conditions for reaction efficiency and yield.
• Downselect, modify, and integrate materials and coatings for electrodes, electrolytes, separators, and other components to improve device performance.
• Develop and maintain standard operating procedures and other documentation for reactor assembly and testing.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including materials scientists, chemical engineers, and mechanical engineers to integrate product subsystems.
• Participate in and lead design reviews of electrochemical process subsystems.
• Develop safety systems and protocols for the prototype and production systems.
• Translate R&D work into prototype functional requirements and specifications.
• Translate prototype test results into design requirements.

Requirements

• Pursuing education in chemical engineering, materials science and engineering, or related fields.
• Track record of strong academic and/or project-based performance.
• Exceptional communication and documentation skills.
• Experience in electrochemical testing techniques including cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), rotating disk electrode (RDE), polarization curves, Tafel analysis, etc.
• Familiarity with assembly and operation of electrochemical devices such as gaseous and liquid flow systems (fuel cells, flow batteries, etc.), plating baths, pH probes, oxidation-reduction potential sensors, etc.
• Hands-on experience in a wet-lab including chemical handling and safety, solution preparation, and sample analysis.
• Experience with hydrogen handling and safety equipment.
• Sensor integration and data acquisition.

Nice-to-haves

• Deeply motivated by the climate crisis and its downstream impacts.