PPIC Assistant - Project Management Summer Help 2026

PPPL is seeking summer help (technical/trade school, undergraduate, or graduate student) who demonstrates strong attention to detail and a genuine interest in the built environment. The summer help will actively participate in learning the operations of complex construction projects, such as the Princeton Plasma Innovation Center (PPIC), while providing both administrative and field support.

This role is intended to provide practical, hands-on experience in project management by supporting the Project Manager in a variety of tasks and responsibilities throughout the duration of Summer 2026 for the PPIC project.

A U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory managed by Princeton University, the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) is tackling the world’s toughest science and technology challenges using plasma, the fourth state of matter. With more than 70 years of history, PPPL is a leader in the science and engineering behind the development of fusion energy, a potentially limitless energy source. PPPL is also using its expertise to advance research in the areas of microelectronics, quantum sensors and devices, and sustainability sciences. Whether it be through science, engineering, technology or professional services, every team member has an opportunity to contribute to our mission and vision. Come join us!

Core Duties: 

• Assist the Project Manager with daily administrative and coordination tasks.
• Support project documentation, including meeting minutes, RFIs, submittals, and reports.
• Track project progress, schedules, and key milestones.
• Participate in project meetings and assist with follow-ups and action items.
• Conduct site visits to observe construction activities and report on progress and conditions.
• Help maintain project records, logs, and filing systems.
• Coordinate with project stakeholders as needed.
• Assist with quality control and safety documentation review process.
• Support data collection and reporting related to construction progress and project performance.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the PPIC project.

Education and Experience: 

• The ideal candidate should be enrolled in a technical/trade school, or in an undergraduate program (pursuing a bachelor’s degree in engineering, construction management, architecture, or a related field), or a graduate program in one of the above relevant discipline.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: 

• Time management skills with the ability to handle multiple tasks.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Basic understanding of construction processes and project management principles, or willingness to learn quickly.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) as well as Google Suite products
• Familiarity with construction management software (e.g., Procore, Bluebeam).
• Willingness to participate in both office and field activities.

Physical Requirements: 

• Walk the construction site. No heavy lifting.

Working Conditions: 

• On-Site, Monday through Friday. 8 am - 4 pm. 

Princeton University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's qualifications, work experience, education/training, key skills, market, collective bargaining agreements as applicable, and organizational considerations when extending an offer. The posted salary range represents the University's good faith and reasonable estimate for a full-time position; salaries for part-time positions are pro-rated accordingly.

If the salary range on the posted position shows an hourly rate, this is the baseline; the actual hourly rate may be higher, depending on the position and factors listed above.

The University also offers a comprehensive benefit program to eligible employees. Please see this link for more information.

Please be aware that the Department of Energy (DOE) prohibits DOE employees and contractors from participation in certain foreign government talent recruitment programs. All PPPL employees are required to disclose any participation in a foreign government talent recruitment program and may be required to withdraw from such programs to remain employed under the DOE Contract.