ROBOTICS INTERNSHIP

Description

ROBOTICS INTERN

The Robotics Intern will support research and development initiatives at CCAM focused on advanced manufacturing, automation, and robotic systems integration. Interns will contribute to applied research projects and help ensure technical deliverables are completed on time, within scope, and to a high standard of quality.

IN THIS POSITION YOU WILL:

Improve understanding of robotics and automation principles through:

• Learning setup, programming, and safe operation of industrial robotic systems and collaborative robots
• Supporting integration of robotic systems with sensors, tooling, and manufacturing equipment
• Assisting in end-of-arm tooling (EOAT) design and development for research applications
• Gaining exposure to robotic simulation and offline programming environments

Improve engineering problem-solving skillset through:

• Assisting with robotic cell setup, debugging, and optimization
• Supporting data acquisition for robotic process validation and performance evaluation
• Applying basic data analysis using Excel, Python, and native robotic software platforms
• Troubleshooting mechanical, electrical, and programming issues in laboratory environments

Improve technical communication skills through:

• Preparing formal technical documentation, reports, and presentations
• Communicating project updates to internal research teams
• Contributing to proposal support materials and technical summaries

Work collaboratively with our researchers to:

• Support development and implementation of robotic automation solutions
• Assist with concept development, prototyping, programming, and system verification
• Conduct experimental testing and validation of robotic processes
• Interface with project teams to track progress and support industry partner communications

CCAM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. CCAM does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetics, disability, or veteran status.

Requirements

CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS

The lists below are not exhaustive. We expect ideal candidates to have experience with at least two of the technical skill areas. The completed coursework section reflects common foundational courses across Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, Mechatronics, Manufacturing Engineering, and Industrial Engineering. Candidates are not expected to have completed all the coursework listed.

This position requires access to technology or intellectual property that is subject to export control requirements. Candidates must be qualified for such access without an export control license.

At a minimum, candidates must have partially completed (at least two years of academic credit) a scientific or engineering degree at an accredited university and be a rising Junior, Senior, or Graduate student.

Academic Major OR Area of Focus:

Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Robotics Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or related technical field

Completed Coursework:

• Physics I with Laboratory
• Engineering Problem Solving
• Engineering Graphics
• Circuits / Intro to Electronics
• Discrete Structures
• Mechanical system design
• Computer aided engineering
• Controls Systems or Mechatronics (preferred)
• Robotics or Automation (preferred)

Technical Skills:

• Mechanical and electrical aptitude
• Basic understanding of robotics (ABB, UR, KUKA, or similar platforms preferred)
• CAD experience (NX preferred)
• Vision processing experience
• Programming experience (Python, C++)
• Basic PLC or controls exposure (preferred)
• Data analysis and manipulation in Excel
• Fabrication and hands-on laboratory experience
• Technical writing and presentation skills

CCAM University Partnership Requirement

CCAM partners with five university members:

• Virginia State University
• Virginia Commonwealth University
• Old Dominion University
• University of Virginia
• Virginia Tech

We only select candidates from our five university member institutions.

Ability To:

• Work independently toward established goals without continuous oversight
• Quickly grasp key concepts needed to solve complex engineering and automation problems
• Maintain a positive, team-first mentality
• Take ownership of assigned projects
• Work safely in laboratory and manufacturing environments

Passion For:

• Robotics, automation, and advanced manufacturing
• Development and application of scientific principles
• Innovative and technically challenging problem solving
• Working outside of your comfort zone
• Having fun while learning new things