R&D Operations/Wood Science Intern (Athol)

POSITION SUMMARY The R&D / Operations Intern supports BRINCK research, development, and operations activities as the business moves from R&D toward production. The intern will help characterize the materials entering and leaving our process, collect and record physical samples, support testing and production runs, and help develop quality control procedures. This on-site, full-time summer internship is intended for an upper-division student in forest products, wood science, renewable materials, or a related discipline. Each intern is also given one or more modest projects matched to their skills and interests, and will gain practical experience working alongside engineers, R&D staff, and operations personnel. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: Collect, prepare, label, and measure physical samples of raw materials, in-process material, and finished product for research and quality control. Perform routine tests such as moisture content, density, particle size, and dimensional measurements using established or standard (e.g., ASTM) methods. Accurately record measurements, observations, and process conditions in data sheets, logbooks, and spreadsheets. Assist with setting up, operating, and monitoring equipment during tests, trials, and production runs under the direction of R&D and operations staff. Help draft and refine test procedures, sampling plans, data forms, and quality control standards as processes transition from R&D to operations. Organize and summarize data, perform basic analysis, and report findings through short written summaries, charts, and presentations. Plan and complete one or more assigned projects, suited to the intern's skills and interests, and present the results at the end of the internship. Maintain sample inventories, retained samples, and organized test records and photographs. Help keep laboratory, pilot, and production areas clean, organized, and safe, including cleanup after tests and production runs. Follow all company safety procedures and site-specific requirements. Perform other duties as needed. REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS Currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor's degree program in Forest Products, Wood Science, Renewable Materials, Forest Resources, or a closely related discipline. Junior or senior standing. Completion of laboratory coursework that included taking and recording measurements, analyzing results, and reporting findings. Ability to work full-time (approximately 40 hours per week) for the duration of the summer internship. Must reside within reasonable commuting distance of Athol, Idaho (Coeur d'Alene or Post Falls, Idaho, or Spokane, Washington) during the internship and be able to report to the assigned work location on-site. Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Careful, detail-oriented approach to measurement and record-keeping. Self-motivated, dependable, and organized, and willing to do hands-on work including running equipment and cleanup. Ability to communicate clearly and work effectively with engineers, R&D staff, operations personnel, and technicians. Ability to pass a drug and alcohol test, post-offer pre-employment physical, and background check. Valid driver's license with acceptable motor vehicle history for business travel in a company vehicle. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Coursework in wood anatomy, wood physics and moisture relations, wood chemistry, drying, wood composites, or biodeterioration. Coursework in statistics or experimental design. Previous laboratory, mill, manufacturing, forestry, agricultural, or other industrial experience. Experience with laboratory instruments such as balances, moisture meters, ovens, or data acquisition equipment. Interest in quality control, process improvement, or renewable products. PHYSICAL DEMANDS Ability to sit and/or stand for portions of the workday, reach with hands and arms, stoop, squat, bend at the waist, kneel, walk varying distances, and climb stairs. Lift and carry up to 50 lbs - occasional Bend, twist, stoop, or kneel - occasional to frequent Repetitive use of hands - frequent for sampling, measuring, testing, and computer work Stand/walk - frequent Sit - occasional to frequent depending on assignment Vision - near and far correctable; depth perception Hearing - preferred for awareness of machinery, mobile equipment, and emergencies WORK ENVIRONMENT Work may be performed in office, laboratory, fabrication shop, pilot plant, and industrial environments. The employee must be able to tolerate varying weather, loud noise, airborne particles such as sawdust, moving equipment, and other industrial conditions. Required personal protective equipment and safety procedures must be followed at all times. Idaho Forest Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of race/ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, genetic information, family medical history, or any other status protected by law.