About Hertha Metals, Inc.:  

Hertha Metals is redefining how the world makes steel. We’ve developed a breakthrough single-step steelmaking process that uses gas reductants to convert iron ore of any grade or form, delivering lower production costs and emissions than blast furnaces—while improving product quality and scalability. Having operated the world’s largest single-step steelmaking pilot plant, we’re now scaling toward commercial deployment. Our mission is to redefine the foundation of modern industry by scaling cleaner, more efficient, and more cost competitive metalmaking systems. At Hertha, engineers, metallurgists, and operators work side by side to transform the future of steel making. 

Mechanical Engineer Intern 

The Mechanical Engineer Intern will support the design, commissioning, operation, and continuous improvement of mechanical systems critical to Hertha’s ironmaking process. This is a hands-on, plant-based internship ideal for students interested in heavy industrial systems, high-temperature processes, and real-world engineering execution. 

The intern will work closely with mechanical, process, and operations teams and gain direct exposure to pilot and early-commercial plant environments. This position reports directly to the Head of Engineering. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Support the design, specification, and installation of mechanical systems including vessels, piping, structural components, rotating equipment, and material handling systems 

• Review and develop mechanical drawings, equipment specifications, and engineering documentation 

• Support equipment installation, commissioning, and start-up activities 

• Provide on-site troubleshooting and engineering support during operations 

• Assist with root cause analysis (RCA) of mechanical failures and implement corrective actions 

• Support development of preventive and predictive maintenance strategies 

• Ensure compliance with applicable mechanical codes, standards, and safety requirements 

• Participate in safety reviews, HAZOPs, and incident investigations 

• Collaborate with process, electrical, and controls engineers to ensure integrated system performance 

• Support mechanical engineering needs for plant expansions and future facilities 

Your experience: 

• Currently pursuing a BS or higher in Mechanical Engineering (or closely related discipline) 

• Coursework or project experience involving mechanical design, manufacturing, or industrial systems 

• Exposure to 3D CAD tools and engineering documentation (academic or internship-based) 

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to define problems, collect data, and support data-driven conclusions 

• Ability to clearly communicate technical information, status updates, and findings 

• Interest in working in an industrial, plant-based environment 

Additional skills: 

• Familiarity with industrial equipment, furnaces, or high-temperature processes 

• Exposure to ANSYS Fluent or other simulation tools 

• Familiarity with scripting or data tools (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Excel) 

• Basic understanding of instrumentation and process control concepts (PID loops, PLCs, SCADA) 

• Interest in maintenance, reliability, or commissioning activities 

• Ability to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced, experimental environment 

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES 

Energetic and highly motivated; high level of organization; able to multitask on many projects; detail oriented; able to focus on overall project goals; team oriented. 

LEVEL OF INDEPENDENCE 

Individuals must be able to work independently and also be able to direct long-term tasks through to completion.  Some projects are highly supervised, some are minimally supervised 

Location: Hertha Metals’ headquarters are in Conroe, TX, just outside of Houston.