Heat to Power Reliability Intern (Thermophotovoltaic/High-Temperature Systems)
Antora builds and deploys thermal batteries to power always-on industrial operations with low-cost energy. Factory-built in the United States, Antora’s modular thermal batteries deliver reliable heat and power, enabling industrial facilities of any size to decarbonize predictably and profitably. Antora is electrifying global industry while supporting U.S. manufacturing jobs, lowering costs for energy consumers, and enhancing the competitiveness of American industry.
We are growing our company with people who put team and mission first, value connection through laughter and joy, and build with humility and openness. We are committed to continue building a diverse, passionate, and creative team dedicated to a future where every industrial facility, everywhere on earth, is powered by abundant, clean, low-cost energy.
Position Summary
Antora is seeking a highly-motivated Thermophotovoltaic Module Reliability Intern to join our mission-driven team working in an industrial R&D laboratory setting. In this role, you will help advance our understanding of thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system component reliability through hands-on experimentation and analysis. You will work closely with Antora engineers to design, execute, and analyze reliability experiments, contributing directly to our mission of delivering zero-emissions industrial energy. Results will inform decisions in materials selection and fabrication process, and improve understanding of device operation.
This internship will start mid February, for 10 weeks, on-site in Sunnyvale, CA.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Collaborate with Antora engineers to plan and conduct reliability experiments for TPV system sub-components.
- Perform accelerated lifetime testing and failure analysis on TPV components, assessing response to heat/light/current.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data, presenting findings to the team.
- Develop and document experimental procedures and results.
- Conduct root cause failure analysis and recommend actionable improvements.
- Maintain a clean and safe laboratory environment while adhering to safety protocols.
- Contribute to team discussions with curiosity, humility, and openness.
- Depending on intern interests, additional work may include developing operating procedures for adhesive polymer characterization tools, or assisting in the selection of a visual inspection tool for TPV cell and module production.
Key Qualifications
- Hands-on experience with laboratory experimentation and scientific methods.
- General understanding of materials science, engineering principles, and semiconductor materials
- Problem-solving skills with a methodical and analytical approach to challenges.
- Proficiency in data analysis and visualization techniques (e.g., graphing and statistical analysis).
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in engineering, materials science, physics, or a related field.
- Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team-oriented environment with empathy and sensitivity.
Additional Qualifications Desired
- Familiarity with reliability testing methodologies and failure analysis techniques.
- Experience with data analysis software (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Excel).
- Knowledge of semiconductors or solar panels.
- Familiarity with device or materials characterization techniques.
- Prior experience working on sustainability or renewable energy projects.
- Able to work full-time, 40 hours per week, onsite at our Sunnyvale, CA location.
Work Location: Onsite - San Jose, CA
Hourly Range: $35 USD - $45 USD
Please note that the hourly range listed for this position reflects Antora Energy's estimated pay rate. The actual rate offered will be determined based on a candidate's experience, year in school, and degree, as they relate to the position's requirements.
Additionally, this position does not offer visa sponsorship. Only candidates with current work authorization (e.g., F-1 visa with OPT/CPT authorization) will be considered.
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When it comes to stopping climate change, we need everyone. We believe that having a diversity of backgrounds and experiences strengthens all of us, and we strive to create an environment where every one of us is empowered to create meaningful change.