2027 R&D Commercialization & Engineering Co-Op
About The Position
This six-month co-op begins in January 2027 and supports Sherwin-Williams’ R&D Performance Coatings Group Commercialization Engineering team. Assigned to a mentor, the co-op will develop knowledge of process engineering, paint and coatings manufacturing, LEAN, Six Sigma, and continuous improvement. The role focuses on supporting the Automotive and Protective & Marine businesses through laboratory, research, equipment, documentation, and process-development work. The position is on site only at the Morikis Global Technology Center in Brecksville, Ohio. It may be extended to as many as 12 months. The role requires contact with other employees and access to confidential or proprietary information and other valuable items. The company states that a criminal-history review is necessary to protect its business, operations, reputation, staff, and business relationships. Sherwin-Williams describes its purpose as inspiring and improving the world by coloring and protecting what matters. The company notes that it invests in employees through rewards and benefits, opportunities to learn and grow, and an inclusive team and community commitment. Benefit eligibility and offerings are described on the company’s benefits website.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Material Science, or Polymer Science.
- At least 18 years of age.
- Legally authorized to work in the country of employment without current or future employment-visa sponsorship.
- Willing to work up to 40 hours per week for six months, with or without reasonable accommodation.
- Minimum GPA of 2.8.
Nice To Haves
- Working knowledge of Minitab and Business Objects.
- Rising or current sophomore, junior, or senior in college or university when the co-op program begins.
- Declared major in Chemical Engineering.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Previous experience in an R&D or laboratory environment.
- Experience operating, maintaining, or repairing equipment containing a pump, engine, motor, gearbox, or similar mechanical devices.
- Experience using basic hand tools.
- Previous team or group experience through employment, volunteering, or extracurricular activities.
- Experience with Microsoft Office, Business Objects, or statistical software.
Responsibilities
- Support engineers, scientists, chemists, and technicians in the Performance Coatings Group, with a focus on the Automotive and Protective & Marine businesses.
- Perform and support maintenance and troubleshooting of processing equipment.
- Carry out laboratory tasks using general instruments and advanced laboratory equipment.
- Collaborate with research and development team members, including process chemistry and engineering and material science research groups.
- Complete research documentation, calculations, and data analysis, and communicate results to the supervisor and team members.
- Prepare samples, materials, equipment, and other tools for laboratory testing or development.
- Perform basic technical development, tests, analyses, and research according to formulas and project requirements.
- Complete forms and documentation regarding research and development processes, tasks, results, reports, and conclusions; seek direction from an engineer on specialized or complex issues.
- Perform calculations to prepare for, conduct, and conclude tests and analyses.
- Clean, maintain, and calibrate standard equipment.
- Maintain a clean and safe working environment.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Benefits
- The company describes a range of benefits related to retirement, health care, well-being, and commuting; eligibility depends on the employee and role.
- The company describes rewards and benefits intended to support health and well-being.
- The company describes opportunities to learn, develop skills, and grow professionally.
- The company describes an inclusive team and commitment to its communities.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
