Mechanical & Materials Testing (Tribology) Internship – R&D

About the role

This 6‑month internship in Hilti’s international materials research team focuses on tribology – the study of friction, wear and lubrication. You will work on real‑world projects that evaluate the performance of lubricants and seals used in power tools, combining hands‑on laboratory work with data analysis.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare, execute and document laboratory tests on defined test rigs to assess friction and wear.
• Perform post‑test characterisation using optical microscopy, digital image analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Analyse experimental data with Excel, MATLAB or similar tools to extract performance metrics.
• Summarise findings in technical presentations, short reports or internal documentation.
• Conduct basic literature reviews on wear mechanisms to support data interpretation.

Required profile

• Currently enrolled in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering programme.
• Strategic problem‑solving approach and proactive, self‑reliant attitude.
• Strong interest in hands‑on scientific work and data‑driven recommendations.
• Good command of English.

Required skills

• Excel
• MATLAB
• Optical microscopy
• Digital image analysis
• Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)
• Basic knowledge of tribology (valued)

What we offer

• Access to a diverse community of over 2,100 colleagues from 70 nationalities.
• Employee groups supporting female empowerment and LGBTQIA+ initiatives.
• Leisure activities such as mountain biking, tennis and on‑site gym.
• Shared e‑bikes, free parking, fuel discounts, meditation rooms, tool rental service and massage options.
• Learning opportunities and financial guidance.