Materials Science Internship

About ESi 

Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) is an engineering and scientific investigation and failure analysis firm. We partner primarily with law firms, insurance companies, and manufacturers to answer complex technical questions on projects ranging from small, focused investigations to large-scale, high-profile losses.

Our work spans a wide range of challenges, including major transportation accidents, equipment and product failures, personal injury claims, and damage to residential, commercial, and industrial structures. The variety, complexity, and real-world impact of our projects create deeply fulfilling and intellectually engaging careers for our consultants.

At ESi, you’ll have the opportunity to shape your own path while being supported by a collaborative culture, national expertise, and industry-leading resources.

About This Role

Provides technical support and assists consultants with inspections, compositional/analytical testing of materials, and microscopic documentation and measurement. Assist in testing development, equipment operation and maintenance, and data analysis. Applies scientific principles, analytical methods, and the application of forensic techniques to a variety of projects. Housing not included.

A mandatory research project must be completed by the end of the Internship and is expected to require approximately 40 hours of effort. The research topic shall be mutually agreed upon between intern and supervisor.

Required Work Hours:

• Internships with ESi are expected to be full-time, 40-hoursper week, from Monday to Friday (Business hours are from 8am-5pm).
• If you are also enrolled in college – we require that you take no more than 2 classes during your employment semester with ESi and are able to work a minimum of 32 hours per week.

Required Skills: 

• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Intermediate skills with office productivity software.
• Strong laboratory skills and aptitude, with awareness of safety in a laboratory environment.

Preferred Skills: 

• Hands-on experience with microscopy and photography.
• Familiarity with analytical chemistry testing methods and data analysis.

Experience Required: 

• Completion of academic courses applicable to investigative methods and laboratory sciences.

Experience Preferred: 

• Use of analytical chemistry to solve problems.
• Ability to prepare technical reports.

Education Required: 

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree related to Forensic Science with strong chemistry emphasis. Must have completed at least Freshman year.

Preferred Education: 

• Major in Forensic Science, Chemistry, or similar Scientific or Engineering Field
• 3.30 GPA or higher, preferred.

Position Requirements: 

• Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Must be able to travel for trips of three days in length.

Physical Demands: 

This role requires frequently sitting or standing for extended periods of time and occasionally lifting and/or moving items weighing up to 50 pounds, with infrequent lifting up to 75 pounds. The work regularly requires bending, twisting, kneeling, crouching, and maintaining balance. This position frequently requires handling and operating specialized tools and equipment and working in a variety of physical positions, including occasionally accessing tight or confined spaces.

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

Work Environment: 

Work is performed in both office and field environments, including active construction sites, industrial settings, and damaged or compromised structures. The work environment may include exposure to varying noise levels, weather conditions, uneven terrain, and site-specific hazards. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required depending on site conditions.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

ESi is an equal opportunity employer committed to attracting and retaining the most qualified individuals based on merit, experience, and skills. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. In accordance with applicable laws, ESi actively supports the employment of veterans and individuals with disabilities.