R&D Engineering Internship
Vancouver, BC, Canada
About us
At Arca, we pull carbon dioxide from the air and store it permanently as rock. To do this at scale, we partner with the minerals industry to implement our technology at mine sites, using their rock waste as our feedstock. These are the same mines that are producing the minerals necessary for the transition to a clean energy future. Arca’s founders are leaders in the field of carbon capture in mine tailings with more than 20 years of experience in innovation and research.
We believe that by working with nature, not against it, we can achieve carbon dioxide removal on the scale needed to secure thriving and abundant life on Earth for generations to come. If that resonates, we want to hear from you. We’re building a team of sharp, mission-driven, and collaborative individuals who take pride in using their skills to contribute to a sustainable future.
Position Overview
As an R&D Engineering Intern on Arca’s Activation team, you will support the design, build, operation, and optimization of experimental systems used for mineral activation and carbon mineralization. This is a hands-on, on-site role for someone who enjoys mechanical problem solving, prototyping, experimental testing, and working directly with lab-scale hardware.
The role includes both structured lab work and open-ended engineering tasks, with increasing independence as training and competency develop. Safety training, onboarding, and supervision will be provided.
This internship is expected to run for an initial three-month term, with continuation evaluated based on performance and project needs.
Responsibilities
- Support the design, assembly, testing, and troubleshooting of lab-scale activation systems, including kilns, material handling equipment, and related instrumentation.
- Operate and monitor flowthrough activation reactors and related experimental systems according to established procedures
- Assist with engineering design work, such as CAD models, SolidWorks drawings, component layouts, and design documentation for fabrication or vendor discussions.
- Support sample preparation for mineralization and analytical experiments, including labeling, handling, and tracking materials.
- Monitor ongoing experiments, record observations, and collect experimental data according to established protocols.
- Maintain organized lab workspaces and support general laboratory upkeep.
- Follow laboratory safety procedures and receive training on relevant equipment and experimental systems.
- Carry out assigned tasks independently once trained, while communicating progress and issues to supervisors.
Skills and Experience
- Background or coursework in engineering, materials science, mineral processing, earth sciences, chemistry, materials science, and/or related fields.
- General laboratory experience or comfort working in hands-on technical environments.
- Experience with CAD, such as SolidWorks, is preferred, but not required.
- Ability to follow experimental protocols and record structured data accurately.
- Comfort working with mechanical, thermal or experimental systems after training.
- Strong organization, attention to detail, and willingness to communicate progress, issues, and ideas clearly.
- Availability to work on-site for approximately 30 to 40 hours per week.
We’re looking for individuals who…
- Are optimistic we can make an impact in the fight against climate change
- Embrace an optimistic mindset, eagerly tackling ideas and situations that challenge conventional boundaries
- Thrive in a collaborative and fast-paced working environment
What we offer at Arca
- A competitive salary
- Flexible working policy
- Flex Fridays
- Pet-friendly office
- A fun and diverse environment, with inspired colleagues who are united in the fight against climate change
This role may be partially funded through a wage subsidy program. In accordance with program requirements, priority may be given to candidates who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
At Arca, we believe that our commitment to diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but also essential for our success as a company. We welcome and encourage all qualified candidates to apply for our open positions, regardless of their background, race, colour, age, national origin, ancestry, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, and basis of disability.