Material and Chemical Laboratory Intern

MAHLE; Troy (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

MAHLE is seeking an Material and Chemical Laboratory Intern in Troy, MI. You will assist as a lab and engineering helper, performing measurements on HVAC components and cooling products, and support corrosion lab activities with test solutions and environmental chambers.

You will compile data, analyze results, and present findings in formal reports while collaborating with Materials, Chemical, and Mechanical Engineering teams on special projects.

Qualifications

• Proficient in PC-based software, including Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office.
• Familiar with basic statistics, chemistry, and mechanical engineering principles.
• Strong written communication skills, with the ability to prepare routine reports, procedures, and correspondence.
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts, including proportions, percentages, geometry, and algebra, to support laboratory activities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.
• Ability to interpret technical instructions and effectively communicate in both verbal and written formats.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain laboratory test benches and metallographic prep activities.
• Prepare samples to specifications per ASTM or MAHLE standards.
• Run and monitor corrosion tests and exposure solutions with heat exchangers.
• Record data accurately and report irregularities to engineers.
• Assist with data analysis and prepare reports/presentations.
• Support engineering teams on special projects as directed.

Skills

PC-based software

Microsoft Office

Statistics basics

Chemistry basics

Mechanical engineering basics

Tools

Brinell hardness tester

Rockwell hardness tester

Micro hardness tester

Abrasive cut-off saws

Polishing machines

Environmental testing chamber

Job description

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Together, we move the world—we’ve been doing it for over 100 years. At MAHLE, as a leading international development partner and systems supplier to the automotive industry, we pursue the objective of making mobility more efficient, more environmentally friendly, more convenient, and more economical. As part of our dual strategy, we are working both on the intelligent combustion engine for the use of hydrogen and other nonfossil fuels and on technologies for fuel cells and e-mobility.

MAHLE generated sales of €11.3 billion in 2025. Employing just under 65,000 people at 127 production locations and 11 technology centers, the company is represented in 28 countries. (as at: 12/31/2025). Join our MAHLE team! #weshapefuturemobility

Your Contribution:

As a Material and Chemical Laboratory Intern, you will serve as a laboratory and engineering assistant, performing advanced measurements on MAHLE components, including automotive Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems and engine cooling products. Responsibilities include routine and non-routine materials science and metallographic sample preparation, chemical analysis, and physical and mechanical testing. You will also support corrosion laboratory activities, including the preparation and monitoring of test solutions, sample preparation, and hands‑on assistance with environmental testing chambers. Additional responsibilities include compiling and analyzing measurement data and presenting results in formal reports and presentations, as well as assisting Materials, Chemical, and Mechanical Engineering teams with special projects.

Should be able to maintain accurate sample identification, with a strict adherence to lab and site procedures and accurate reporting of test results. The job will require interfacing with engineers and other stakeholders to understand test requirements and procedures to effectively perform the requested tests.

• Operates in the day-to-day work under the Laboratory Scope and Capabilities. This includes work with multiple test bench operations, basic metallographic work including sample cleaning, sectioning, mounting, polishing and imaging.
• Prepares samples and/or specific parts to specified tolerances, samples and tests according to ASTM and/or other print specifications (Customer & MAHLE standards).
• Operates and maintains physical testing, metallographic preparation, and support equipment in the laboratory including specialized measuring and testing equipment (surface finish, fatigue testers, tensile tests, ovens), abrasive cut-off saws, mounting presses, Brinell and Rockwell hardness testers, micro hardness tester, manual and automatic metallographic polishing machines, chemicals, and cleaning processes.
• Assists with Setup and monitoring of corrosion tests and exposure solutions with heat exchangers and components (e.g. evaporator, condenser, heater core) including Leak testing of heat exchangers during and after test runs. Help operate and investigate airside and coolant side corrosion tests (e.g. salt spray tests, climate corrosion tests, coolant circulation bench tests)
• To Observe consistency in test data, interpret basicresults and report any irregularities to Corrosion or Material engineers
• Take direction from Material or Corrosion Engineer or other Supervisor for daily assignments
• Must keep work area clean and orderly

Your Experience & Qualifications:

Proficient in PC-based software, including Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office.

Familiar with basic statistics, chemistry, and mechanical engineering principles.

Strong written communication skills, with the ability to prepare routine reports, procedures, and correspondence.

Ability to apply mathematical concepts, including proportions, percentages, geometry, and algebra, to support laboratory activities.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

Ability to interpret technical instructions and effectively communicate in both verbal and written formats.

Our Offer:

MAHLE is not currently hiring individuals for this position who now or in the future require sponsorship for employment‑based non‑immigrant and immigrant visas. However, as a global company, MAHLE offers many job opportunities outside of the U.S. which can be found through our employment website.

We will provide a collaborative environment working on exciting assignments, along with personal & career development opportunities. After inviting you to the recruitment process, the next step will typically be a screening call followed by video or personal interview(s). #TeamMAHLE is diverse– and we see that as a great advantage! We welcome applications with diverse experiences, backgrounds, and identities.

Do you have any questions?
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Facts about the job

Entry level: Internship

Part- / Full-time: Full Time

Functional area: Research & Development

Department: Services

Location: Troy, MI, US, 48083

Your future at MAHLE

As a team player and someone who thinks ahead, you can deploy all your skills with us. In cooperation with colleagues from different countries and areas, you contribute in designing the mobility of the future. When selecting MAHLE, you choose trend‑setting technologies and strategies. Are you interested in working with us and developing efficient and environmentally‑friendly solutions, optimising existing products, and turning innovative ideas into reality? Then MAHLE is the right address for you.

Shape the future with us.

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Nearest Major Market: Troy

Nearest Secondary Market: Detroit