Process Engineer Intern

Process Engineering Intern (4 months) 
Team: Processing Engineering

Location: Calgary, AB/In-person

Term: May-August 2026

This role is for a current student enrolled in a Chemical, Process, or Industrial Engineering degree program and is a 4-month (May–August) contract.

About Us 

Summit Nanotech is a venture-backed lithium extraction company unlocking sustainable access to the lithium the world needs to power the energy transition. Founded in 2018 and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, we’ve developed proprietary Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology that helps project developers in Argentina, Chile, and the U.S. produce lithium more economically and responsibly. Recognized by the Cleantech Group as one of the Top 100 Global Cleantech Startups in both 2024 and 2025, Summit is shaping the future of critical mineral supply.   

To learn more about us, visit our website or LinkedIn.

Summary

We are looking for a Process Engineering Intern to support process development, optimization, and modelling, and to undertake quality improvements and operational efficiency projects at our Calgary Headquarters. The ideal candidate is analytical, curious, and motivated to contribute in a dynamic environment. You will be part of a collaborative, cross-functional team working alongside our scientists and engineers to advance our lithium extraction technology. You will gain valuable experience in process development, data analysis, and experimental research to support innovative advancements in the field of sustainable natural resources development.  

Duties & Responsibilities 

Process Optimization

• Assist in evaluating and improving manufacturing and operational processes.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret process data, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
• Support continuos improvement initiatives.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and provide suggestions to improve system performance.

Documentation & Compliance

• Help update process documentation, SOPs, and technical reports.
• Review and update process documentation including PFDs, P&IDs, SOPs, technical reports, safety documents, and other engineering documents.
• Support quality control activities and compliance requirements.
• Summarize findings through data presentations, including reports, graphs, and tables.

Research & Processing Modelling 

• Support assumption validation efforts, including literature review, discussions with vendors, analysis of internal and external data, and lab where required.
• Support equipment sizing and costing, including research and communication with equipment vendors.  
• Conduct literature reviews and summarize key insights to support ongoing research.
• Support techno-economic evaluation of the technology, including assessment of capital and operating costs. 

Skills & Qualifications Required:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Process, Chemical, or Industrial Engineering (post-2nd year preferred or previous relevant internship experience).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Basic understanding of process flow, thermodynamics, or material behavior.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Thorough research skills and ability to collect multiple relevant sources to holistically understand a problem.

Preferred:

• Experience with data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, or similar).
• Familiarity with process simulation software (SuperPro, Aspen, SysCAD or similar).
• Familiarity with draft/flowcharting software (Visio, AutoCAD, or similar).
• Knowledge of techno-economic analysis principles, equipment costing, and plant capital/operating cost evaluation. 

Additional Qualities:

• Ability to work both independently and with cross-functional teams.
• Strong attention to detail but able to understand the ‘big picture’ and apply learnings with a mindset towards tangible engineering outcomes. 

Summit Nanotech is built on an inclusive, value-driven culture. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds and know that great talent comes in many forms. If this role inspires you and you believe your skills can make an impact, please apply online. Note: Only successful candidates will be contacted for further steps in the hiring process.