Thank you for your interest in employment with the Desert Research Institute. We want your application process to go smoothly and quickly. We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:
- Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
- Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.
- Please see the application instructions under each posting for information on submittal deadlines.
If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or [email protected].
Job Description
Nevada Robotics at DRI is hiring four part-time Technology Interns to work in Northern Nevada up to 12 hours a week during the 2026-2027 school year.
The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is Nevada’s nonprofit environmental research institution and a member of the Nevada System of Higher Education. Founded in 1959, DRI conducts world-class scientific research focused on some of the most pressing environmental challenges facing communities in Nevada and around the globe. Its scientists study topics such as water resources, air quality, renewable energy, ecosystem health, drought, wildfire, and environmental resilience. With campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI brings together scientists, engineers, educators, and students to develop science-based solutions that improve human and environmental health. The institute is known for its innovative research, including studies of atmospheric processes, hydrology, earth and ecosystem sciences, groundwater management, and water sustainability.
Nevada Robotics is a statewide education outreach and workforce development program that empowers students, educators, and communities through hands-on robotics, drone, engineering, and technology learning experiences. Its vision is a Nevada education system where all students have early and equal access to engaging and quality computer science instruction to build a foundation for their success in STEM classes, majors, and jobs. The program provides access to high-quality educator professional development, and career-connected learning opportunities that prepare learners for success in Nevada's growing STEM industries.
By partnering with schools, districts, industry leaders, higher education institutions, and community organizations, Nevada Robotics creates pathways for students to develop critical skills in problem-solving, teamwork, coding, engineering design, and innovation.
What You'll Do
● Work with the team to 3D print, build, create an interface for, and install 3D-Printed Automatic Weather Station 3D-PAWS.
● Use strong written and verbal communication for logging, reporting, and team interaction.
● Work collaboratively with the 3D-PAWS intern team to meet project goals and timelines.
● Work at Saturday student drone competitions.
What You'll Bring
● A strong interest in science and innovation in education.
● Your skills in engineering, electronics, manufacturing, and coding.
● Creativity, curiosity, strong attention to detail, and problem-solving skills.
Why You'll Love DRI
● A chance to create a device that will serve and benefit students, teachers, scientists, and communities/
● Access to an innovative science and education environment.
● Mentorship from and collaboration with experienced innovators.
● Flexible scheduling to accommodate academic commitments.
● Opportunities to connect with DRI scientists and staff.
Required Qualifications
● Full-time, undergraduate college student status.
● Studying or majoring in engineering, manufacturing, physics, computer science, or similar area of study.
● Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite (including Teams and Outlook) and Google Suite programs.
● Familiarity with Python, R, or MATLAB for data analysis and visualization.
Preferred Qualifications
● Exposure to electronics assembly, microcontrollers (Arduino, Raspberry Pi), or 3D printing is desirable.
● Smartphone or tablet handling for field data logging and cloud-synced uploads.
● Experience working in the field in varied weather conditions and terrains.
Physical Requirements: This position may need to occasionally perform physical tasks such as lifting objects of 20-60 lbs., stooping, bending, and kneeling and standing for long periods of time. This position may require desk work and sitting at a computer for several hours at a time.
Conditions of Employment: Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background check. Reliable transportation is required.
Compensation Grade/Benefits: $18 - $20 / hour DOE, up to 12 hours per week; no benefits
Exempt
NoFull-Time Equivalent
30.0%Required Attachment(s)
Qualified individuals interested in this position must attach the following documents to the required sections of your application. The system will accept multiple attachments to this section of the application up to 5MB. Please contact [email protected], the day you apply, if assistance is needed with attachments.
1. Cover letter
2. Current resume
3. Contact information for three professional references.
DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the “Browse Jobs” report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Browse Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, “R0153867” in the search box.
For questions regarding this position, please call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431.
Posting Close Date
Note to Applicant
Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications. The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials.
References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant notification and permission.
Newly hired faculty and postdoctoral fellows must assure that their official transcript is submitted to the Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment. Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions.
This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.
As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.
DRI employs only U.S. citizens and aliens authorized to work in the U.S. DRI only sponsors aliens applying for research faculty or postdoctoral fellow positions (J-1 or H-1B Visas).
All applicants hired by the Desert Research Institute are subject to E-Verify.
Skills Required
- Full-time undergraduate college student status
- Studying or majoring in engineering, manufacturing, physics, computer science, or a similar area
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Teams and Outlook
- Proficiency with Google Suite programs
- Familiarity with Python, R, or MATLAB for data analysis and visualization
- Exposure to electronics assembly, microcontrollers such as Arduino or Raspberry Pi, or 3D printing
- Smartphone or tablet handling for field data logging and cloud-synced uploads
- Experience working in the field in varied weather conditions and terrains
What We Do
The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is the environmental research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. It is a leading organization that conducts cutting-edge applied research focused on air, land, life, and water quality across Nevada, the United States, and globally on every continent.
