Intern - Mechanical Design & Analysis (Summer 2027)

GTI Energy, a leading energy research, development, and training organization, is seeking a Mechanical Design and Analysis Intern to support applied research, experimental testing, and engineering design. Working alongside experienced engineers and technicians, the intern will contribute to R&D projects, assist with design and testing activities, support analytical and simulation-based studies, and develop technical and communication skills while managing multiple assignments.

GTI Energy is where complex energy challenges meet bold solutions. With deep expertise in energy research, technology development, and business innovation, we help partners across industries build and demonstrate solutions for better-performing energy systems.  Our progress is guided by collaboration, innovation, and systems thinking. 

Joining GTI Energy means being part of a purpose-driven team motivated by learning, growing, and making an impact. We offer competitive compensation, strong benefits, and opportunities for professional development in a culture that values respect and belonging. Recognized as a Chicago Tribune Top Workplace for seven consecutive years, our people-focused culture reflects our commitment to creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and able to thrive.

GTI Energy offers a competitive total rewards package including health coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. A high-level overview is available at: 2026 Benefits at a Glance GTI Energy.

The position will be based in the Chicagoland area at the GTI Energy Headquarters. We offer a hybrid/core work week, where employees are remote Mondays and Fridays, and required to be on-site Tuesday through Thursday, subject to manager discretion.

• Less than 5%

In this role, you may:

• Design, assemble, and commission experimental apparatuses intended to investigate the impacts and optimize use of various energy sources under the supervision of experienced engineering staff.
• Effectively collaborate with technician and engineering staff, including the development and maintenance of experimental documentation such as, but not limited to, mechanical drawings, standard operating procedures, and job safety analyses.
• Assist in execution of experimental and/or field investigations of a variety of energy systems, at bench-scale or full system-scale, while meeting project timelines within budget, and complying with all safety protocols.
• Perform basic thermodynamic, fluid dynamic, and heat transfer calculations.
• Analyze data and prepare project reporting for internal and external use.
• Develop technical expertise through strong written and presentation skills.
• Demonstrate internal and external customers are a high priority.
• Perform other duties as assigned

• Deep interest in learning new skills and energy technology topics
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and energy conversions
• Individuals who are self-motivated and able to work independently with direction
• Excellent computer literacy

• Currently in pursuit of a Bachelor or Graduate degree of Science in Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical or related Engineering discipline
  • Your past educational and professional experiences in these areas are highly valued, but so are your personal abilities and willingness to learn. All candidates with the appropriate skill sets will be considered

Work is performed in laboratory, pilot plant, or technical facility environments and may involve:

• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers
• Stand for extended periods and move between workspaces while adhering to established safety procedures
• Work in laboratory environments with exposure to noise, temperature variations, and controlled chemical or mechanical hazards
• Lift up to 30 pounds
• Perform repetitive lifting of moderate weight
• Climb stairs and ladders and stand for up to 4 hours per day
• Work outdoors in varying environmental conditions                             

• Remaining in a stationary position, often standing or sitting for prolonged periods.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers.

The salary range for this position is $17/hour - $28/hour USD annually. This salary range is GTI Energy’s good faith estimate, and the actual salary may vary based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, GTI Energy’s business or organizational needs and an individual’s relevant experience, education, qualifications, certifications, skills, seniority, geographic location, and/or performance. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus. The range listed is just one component of GTI Energy’s total compensation package for employees. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, paid time off, and region-specific benefits.

GTI Energy is committed to developing a barrier-free recruitment process and work environment.  If you require any accommodation, please e-mail us at HumanResources@gti.energy and we’ll work with you to meet your accessibility needs. You must have legal authorization to work for GTI Energy on your date of hire with no further action required by GTI Energy. We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and give consideration to qualified applicants without regard to race, color, age, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, pregnancy, or genetic information.