R&D Intern

Position: R&D Intern - New York
Location: Bergen

About Sperra

Sperra (formerly known as RCAM Technologies) is an innovative cleantech startup developing advanced 3D concrete printing technologies to reduce the cost of renewable energy and create domestic jobs. Our research is at the forefront of developing solutions for floating solar, offshore wind, wave energy projects, and subsea energy storage. We are supported by leading funding agencies such as the Department of Energy, California Energy Commission, National Science Foundation, and others.

Who You Are:

• Undergraduate, graduate student, or recent graduate in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field
• Interested in 3D concrete printing technology, design, and prototyping
• Experienced with hands-on testing, fabrication, and assembly in a lab or workshop environment
• A strong communicator, self-starter, and adaptive problem solver
• Detail-oriented, organized, efficient, and reliable
• Open to working in a collaborative and diverse environment

What You Will Do:

As an R&D intern, you will support the development of Sperra's 3D concrete printing technology by contributing to various aspects of research, design, and prototyping. You will work with our team hands-on to develop new methods and systems that push the envelope of 3D concrete printing.

Primary responsibilities:

• Assist in the design and prototyping of 3D printing systems and components
• Develop and test new materials and formulations for 3D concrete printing
• Perform mechanical testing and analysis of printed structures
• Help refine testing methods and protocols to evaluate printed components
• Troubleshoot and improve existing design and manufacturing processes
• Contribute to project documentation and reporting
• Other duties as assigned

Qualifications, Skills, and Experience:

Required:

• Enrolled in or recently graduated from a relevant engineering or materials science program
• Interest in learning new skills related to 3D printing, materials science, and concrete technology
• Hands-on experience in a lab, workshop, or similar environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and critical thinking abilities
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Excellent communication and organizational skills

Preferred:

• Knowledge of concrete materials, mix design, or construction technology
• Experience in prototyping or industrial automation
• Experience with mechanical design software (e.g., Solid Works or AutoCAD)
• Familiarity with CAD modeling or finite element analysis tools (e.g., COMSOL, ANSYS)

Sperra is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an environment that is inclusive and welcoming for leadership and team members with different backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences. By welcoming "diversity," we mean that our organization embraces differences in identity, age, culture, ancestry, ethnicity, race, color, sexual orientation, physical ability, learning style, religion, familial status, marital status, occupation, veteran status, nationality, and the many forms of composite subjectivity and life experiences.

Hence, we strongly encourage applications from BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals, people from working-class backgrounds, women, LGBTQIA+ people, and veterans.

Join us in shaping the future of renewable energy!

The pay range for this role is:

25 - 35 USD per hour (Bergen)