Robotics and Automation Internship - Graduate

Grduate students in engineering, computer science, and related applied sciences can apply their technical expertise to robotics, automation, controls, and custom electronics projects with the Automation, Robotics, and Controls group (E-3) at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Interns work with experienced engineers to design, integrate, and test systems that address practical challenges supporting the Laboratory's mission.

We welcome students from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds, including those studying computer science, physics, aerospace engineering, robotics, mechanical engineering, nuclear engineering, electrical engineering, and related disciplines. Selection considers academic achievement, relevant experience, and alignment between students' interests and available projects.

Depending on their background and project assignment, interns may develop control software and algorithms, design mechanical or electronic components, integrate sensors and actuators, and evaluate system performance. Students take ownership of defined technical tasks with guidance from LANL mentors and collaborate with engineers and fellow interns to develop solutions, troubleshoot challenges, and share results.

Projects combine hardware and software development and may involve tools and technologies such as LabVIEW, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), VHDL/Verilog, and the Robot Operating System (ROS). Design work may include custom end-effectors, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and mechanical fixtures. Students also gain experience documenting their work through requirements specifications, project plans, technical drawings, and test results. Students are not expected to have experience with every listed tool or technology. Project assignments consider students' existing skills and interests, with opportunities to learn additional tools through mentorship and hands-on work.

Through these projects, interns strengthen their technical skills, gain hands-on engineering experience, and contribute to systems with practical applications.

Past student projects include:

Development of an autonomous bolting and unbolting system for shipping containers using a FANUC robotic manipulator. Development of a custom battery management system. Development of a digital twin for a robotic glovebox system. Design and implementation of a PLC-based material handling conveyor system. Development of an automated lubrication system for hydroforming.

The internship includes technical seminars on topics such as LabVIEW programming, signal processing, machine learning, shop equipment, cable fabrication, PCB design, and robotic motion planning. Students can apply concepts from these seminars to their projects. Professional development activities-including team building, resume reviews, interview preparation, and discussions of graduate education and career paths-help students strengthen communication skills and prepare for future opportunities. Tours of LANL facilities, including the Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE) and the Dual-Axis Radiographic Hydrodynamic Test (DARHT) facility, are scheduled throughout the summer.

Students completing a master's degree before September 2028 will be considered for the Robotics & Automation Summer School (RASS). RASS interns work in multidisciplinary teams to develop proof-of-concept systems and demonstrate their results to LANL management. The internship provides opportunities to build technical skills, network with staff across the Laboratory, and explore potential career opportunities at LANL.

What You Need

Minimum Job Requirements:

Must be currently enrolled or accepted into an accredited graduate program in any engineering or applied science discipline including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, nuclear engineering, materials engineering, aeronautic engineering, and robotic engineering Must be enrolled in at least 6 semester credit hours (or full-time equivalent) during the fall and spring semesters. Students preparing to begin an graduate program of study must provide documentation indicating matriculation into an appropriate degree program Must currently have and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.20 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent) Must demonstrate the ability to communicate (verbally and written) well in a professional scientific context.

Application Requirements:

To apply, please submit the following documents:

Resume, One-page Cover Letter, Transcripts

Your cover letter should address the following: Your interest in the robotics and automation internship, particularly in the development of multi-disciplinary autonomous/robotic systems. Your near-term academic and professional goals (1-3 years). How your experience and qualifications align with the desired qualifications for this internship

Important Deadlines: All application materials must be submitted before January 3, 2027. Please note that only complete applications-those including all three required documents-will be considered. Applicants will be notified of their acceptance status by February 12, 2027.

Desired Qualifications:

Student selected for GRA internships in engineering and applied sciences are most competitive when they possess some of the following knowledge and skills:

Interest in collaborating with a small team to accomplish tasks safely and efficiently. Experience designing, fabricating, or assembling electronic, mechanical, or robotic systems. Programming experience supporting engineering design, data acquisition, analysis, robot control, or machine learning. Interest in or experience with programmable logic controllers (PLCs), human-machine interfaces (HMIs), LabVIEW, or communication protocols. Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) or finite element analysis (FEA). Familiarity with robotics simulation software such as Robotic Operating System (ROS), IsaacSim, etc. Basic knowledge of electronic control systems, including fabrication, testing, or documentation. Experience troubleshooting electrical or electronic equipment using digital multimeters, oscilloscopes, or other electronics bench instruments. Familiarity with fabrication and assembly tools, such as soldering irons, crimpers, and electric screwdrivers. Laboratory or shop experience involving attention to detail and safe, secure, quality work practices.

Resources for Applicants:

Discover application and interview tips at https://lanl.jobs/creative/about-faq. Additional information about the RASS program can be found at m.lanl.gov/rass Applicants may send any questions about the program to rass@lanl.gov For technical assistance, email applyhelp@lanl.gov or call 1-505-665-4444 option 1.