Mechanical Engineer Internship-GUATEMALA

Mechanical Engineer – Internship Description

AIDG Overview:

The Appropriate Infrastructure Development Group (AIDG) works to provide rural villages in developing countries with affordable and environmentally sound technologies that meet their needs for electricity, sanitation and clean water. Through a combination of business incubation, education, training and outreach, AIDG helps individuals and communities gain access to technology that will improve their lives. Our model provides a novel approach to sustainable development by empowering people with the physical tools and practical knowledge to solve infrastructure problems in their own communities.

In support of AIDG’s mission, the Internship Program seeks to provide assistance to AIDG’s incubated businesses and technology research and development through specialized training and product investigation and development, bringing in talented young professionals and experts from around the world with a passion to contribute to the developing world and help make a difference.

Presently, AIDG-Guatemala is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to assist the Technology R&D Program. The role and responsibilities of this position are described below; for further information (such as program details, expectations, housing and food reimbursement, etc.) please visit the AIDG website (www.aidg.org).

Mechanical Engineering Intern Position:

This internship involves the following projects:

Ø       Development of several value-add technologies for AIDG’s biodigesters. These include a simple cooking stove, a low-cost scrubbing system, a low-cost compression system, and electricity generation with diesel or gasoline generators.

Ø       Technical assistance on customer-driven design modifications of the Rocket Box efficient woodstove.

Ø       Participation in exploratory customer-needs evaluation teams.

This role is a full-time role and will require the applicant to work 8:30am-5:00pm, Monday-Friday. The successful applicant’s principal focus will be the Rocket Box and biogas technology projects; 80% of the Intern’s time should be dedicated to these projects. The remaining time is expected to be dedicated to collaborative projects with other Interns and/or participating within a team who will be doing customer-needs assessments.

Preferred Qualifications:

Applicants interested in this Internship should possess the following skills:

·         Strong mechanical design skills

·         Basic understanding and experience working with sustainable, appropriate technologies

·         Advanced level of Spanish speaking/written ability

·         Good project management skills

All applicants should have a willingness to get hands-on and dirty, possess a good sense of humor and the ability to work independently. They should be versatile, mature, highly motivated and friendly. Prior international experience is desirable.  This is a 1-year internship, starting February 2010.

Application Instructions:

Qualified applicants should send their cover letter and resume to internships[at]aidg[dot]org.