**General purpose of the internship** Support first-level operation and maintenance of DLE systems and their auxiliary services under direct supervision, developing technical competencies and professional skills within a real industrial environment. Participate in operational maneuvers, process monitoring, basic maintenance, and continuous improvement, applying theoretical knowledge while gaining practical experience in safety, plant operations, and teamwork. *Activity balance: ~20% System operation / ~30% First-level maintenance / ~50% Learning and competency development.* **Supervision and collaboration** * **Reports to:** Operations Supervisor and Electromechanical Operations Technician (assigned mentor). * **Collaborates with:** Maintenance, Laboratory, HSE, Engineering, and Warehouse/Logistics teams. **Learning responsibilities and activities** **I. System Operation (under supervision)** * Learn to apply Safety, Health, and Environmental (SHE) policies and internal plant regulations. * Assist in equipment start-ups, operation, and shutdowns per SOPs, work permits, and LOTO procedures. * Accompany process parameter monitoring via SCADA/DCS and field operational rounds. * Observe and learn alarm and deviation response, participating in basic diagnostics under mentor guidance. * Support valve, pump, and pipeline alignment; consumable replacement; and equipment preparation. * Participate in sampling activities coordinated with the Laboratory, learning protocols and chain-of-custody procedures. * Collaborate in managing operational inventories (chemicals, filtration media, PPE). * Maintain daily activity logs and learn shift handover techniques. **II. First-Level Maintenance (assistance and learning)** * Perform simple preventive maintenance tasks under supervision (lubrication, technical cleaning, visual inspections). * Assist in basic diagnostic and corrective maintenance activities alongside the Maintenance team. * Learn to record information in work orders (WOs): observations, spare parts used, time spent. * Become familiar with critical spare parts and supplies, their specifications, and warehouse management systems. **III. Professional Development and Continuous Improvement** * Observe and learn application of 5S principles and workplace organization in assigned areas. * Identify and report substandard conditions, near-misses, or opportunities for improvement. * Participate in commissioning, testing, and trial activities, documenting observations and learnings. * Develop an internship project focused on optimization, documentation, or process improvement (as agreed with supervisor). **Other typical internship activities** * Conduct operational rounds using checklists, recording data and instrument readings. * Practice inspections to detect leaks, vibrations, abnormal noises, and corrosion. * Practice reading and interpreting P&IDs, single-line diagrams, and technical symbology. * Manage material requisitions and warehouse withdrawals, verifying specifications. * Observe and support contractor work under supervision by the plant team. * Document activities, deviations, and learnings in the internship report. * Participate in safety meetings, operational meetings, and shift handover presentations. **Requirements** * **Current student** in final year of a higher-education technical program: Industrial Maintenance, Electromechanics, Instrumentation and Control, Automation, or related fields. * **Theoretical knowledge** in: mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic systems; basic electricity; process instrumentation and control. * Basic ability to read technical drawings (P&IDs, electrical diagrams). * Basic knowledge of pumps, valves, piping, and process instrumentation. * Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint). * Valid Class B driver’s license (desirable, depending on site location). * **Availability:** 3 to 6 months for professional internship. * Availability for on-site work on a 5x2 shift schedule (40 hours per week). * Basic technical English (desirable but not mandatory). **Competencies to be developed** * **Operational discipline:** Rigorous adherence to safety and operational procedures. * **Technical observation:** Ability to detect anomalies and abnormal conditions. * **Effective communication:** Clear reporting and collaborative work with multidisciplinary teams. * **Active learning:** Proactivity in asking questions, researching, and deepening knowledge. * **Adaptability:** Flexibility in response to operational changes and task assignments. * **Responsibility:** Commitment to assigned tasks, punctuality, and orderliness. **Internship benefits** * Hands-on experience in a real industrial plant utilizing Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) technology. * Mentorship from experienced professionals in operations and maintenance. * Development of technical competencies and soft skills valued across the industry. * Participation in innovation and continuous improvement projects. * Potential for continued employment based on performance and company needs. *This professional internship is designed to provide a comprehensive learning experience that prepares students for successful entry into the industrial workforce, integrating technical knowledge with professional skill development and a strong safety culture.*