R2026101503 Advancing Agrivoltaics Research and Extension in Colorado

Position Summary:

This internship provides a student with hands-on experience at the forefront of agricultural water management through the design, fabrication, and testing of 3-D-printed structures used in irrigation delivery and flow-measurement systems. Working closely with the Agricultural Water Quality Program, CSU Extension, and statewide water partners, the intern will help prototype critical components, including flumes and other devices essential for monitoring and managing water in ditches, canals, and on-farm distribution networks, using CSU’s suite of additive manufacturing tools. This engineering workflow is central to creating practical, affordable, and locally manufacturable alternatives to traditional fiberglass or metal structures, directly addressing the growing need for accurate and economical flow monitoring across Colorado’s irrigation systems. Throughout the internship, the student will develop competencies in CAD modeling, parametric design, material selection, print optimization, and post-processing techniques while collaborating with conservation districts, ditch companies, irrigation businesses, and river districts to translate stakeholder needs into deployable engineering solutions.

Department Name:

OEE Extension Centers (4048)

Anticipated Start Date:

5/16/2026

Anticipated Weekly Hours:

30 hours per week

Required Job Qualifications:

• Completed coursework OR Completed bachelor’s degree in engineering, agricultural science, hydrology, or closely related field of study.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively based on written application materials.

Preferred Job Qualifications:

• Experience with CAD software and/or 3D printing.
• Previous experience with applied research, field work, or CSU Extension programs.
• Interest in agricultural water management, irrigation systems, or applied engineering.

Essential Duties:

• Assist with testing, evaluation, and refinement of printed hydraulic structures.
• Collaborate with Extension staff and external stakeholders to incorporate field needs into designs.
• Fabricate and pos-process 3D printed prototypes using CSU additive manufacturing facilities.
• Create a poster that encapsulates the work you completed over the summer and present it to Extension Faculty and Staff at OEE’s Annual Forum next fall.

Application Instructions:

For full consideration, all materials must be RECEIVED in Workday no later than 11:59 PM Mountain Time on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Please submit the following to apply:

Resume

Special Required Document - This document should address the following three questions:

• In 200 words or less, please describe why you are interested in this internship opportunity.
• In 200 words or less, please tell us a little about yourself - where you are from, why you are at CSU and studying what you're studying, and what are your career ambitions?
• In 200 words or less, please tell us what you hope to learn from an Extension Internship this summer and how will the internship help you to achieve your career objectives?

For questions regarding the application process, contact the OEE HR at OEE_HR@colostate.edu. For questions regarding the job vacancy, responsibilities, and hourly pay rate, please contact Kyla Davis at KylaM.Davis@colostate.edu.

Required Application Documents

To apply, please upload the following applicant documents in the Required Application Documents section. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.

Resume/CV, Special Required Documentation

Application Details

• Background Check Language: Colorado State University may conduct background checks on final candidates.
• Benefit Information: Employee benefit information can be found on HR’s Website at https://hr.colostate.edu/currentemployees/benefits/
• For work-study positions, students must have OR be able to obtain work-study before starting employment. Students can check their work study award on Ramweb. If an award isn't shown on their financial aid package, then they should contact the Office of Financial Aid at OFApay@colostate.edu to have an advisor review their eligibility.