Polymers Intern

Erbe USA Incorporated•Tempe, AZ

About The Position

Essential Responsibilities Assist in monitoring and optimizing injection molding and extrusion processes to improve efficiency and reduce scrap. Support design and modeling of components, fixtures, or tooling using SolidWorks, including creating and updating CAD drawings as needed. Support process troubleshooting by collecting data, documenting issues, and assisting in root cause analysis. Participate in process validation activities, including IQ/OQ/PQ support and documentation. Analyze production data (cycle time, yield, scrap rates) to identify trends and improvement opportunities. Assist in developing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions. Support new product introduction (NPI) activities including tooling trials, sample evaluation, and process setup. Work with cross-functional teams (Quality, Production, Maintenance) on continuous improvement projects. Assist in material evaluations and compatibility testing for polymer applications. Help maintain compliance with ISO 13485 and FDA regulations by ensuring proper documentation and adherence to procedures. Participate in 5S and lean manufacturing initiatives within the production area. Provide support in maintaining accurate production and inventory records. Assist with supplier evaluations and documentation related to tooling or raw materials. Follow all safety protocols and support risk assessments in manufacturing areas. All other duties assigned Learning Objectives Gain hands-on experience with polymer processing (injection molding & extrusion) Develop skills in data analysis, root cause investigation, and process improvement Understand regulated manufacturing environments (FDA, ISO 13485) Learn engineering documentation and validation practices Exposure to cross-functional collaboration in manufacturing Perform other duties as assigned by the Polymers Engineer.

Requirements

Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering (Materials Science, Polymer Engineering, Mechanical, Chemical, Industrial or related field)
Must have at least two semesters remaining in the academic program at the time of application
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Attention to detail
Good communication and teamwork abilities
Willingness to learn in a hands-on manufacturing environment
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting
The employee frequently is required to stand form extended periods of time, walk, and stoop; use hands to finger, handle or feel; and reach with hands and arms.
The employee frequently is required to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

Basic understanding of polymer materials and processing
Familiarity with CAD software (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, etc.)
Exposure to data analysis tools (Excel, Minitab, or similar)
Interest in manufacturing and process engineering

Responsibilities

Assist in monitoring and optimizing injection molding and extrusion processes to improve efficiency and reduce scrap.
Support design and modeling of components, fixtures, or tooling using SolidWorks, including creating and updating CAD drawings as needed.
Support process troubleshooting by collecting data, documenting issues, and assisting in root cause analysis.
Participate in process validation activities, including IQ/OQ/PQ support and documentation.
Analyze production data (cycle time, yield, scrap rates) to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
Assist in developing and updating standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions.
Support new product introduction (NPI) activities including tooling trials, sample evaluation, and process setup.
Work with cross-functional teams (Quality, Production, Maintenance) on continuous improvement projects.
Assist in material evaluations and compatibility testing for polymer applications.
Help maintain compliance with ISO 13485 and FDA regulations by ensuring proper documentation and adherence to procedures.
Participate in 5S and lean manufacturing initiatives within the production area.
Provide support in maintaining accurate production and inventory records.
Assist with supplier evaluations and documentation related to tooling or raw materials.
Follow all safety protocols and support risk assessments in manufacturing areas.
All other duties assigned