R&D Intern

Minerals Technologies • Hoffman Estates, IL

1d

About The Position

The Research & Development (R&D) Intern gains hands-on experience supporting projects that connect product development with commercial manufacturing. Working alongside scientists, engineers, and manufacturing professionals, the intern contributes to process optimization, formulation development, manufacturing trials, analytical testing, and continuous improvement. The role applies chemistry and chemical engineering principles in production environments and develops practical skills in data analysis, problem-solving, process scale-up, and technical troubleshooting.

The internship is designed for students interested in how products progress from development through manufacturing, with exposure to laboratory operations, process development, and cross-functional collaboration. Interns are valued contributors who work on real business challenges and present their project findings and accomplishments to business leaders at the end of the internship.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled at an accredited college or university pursuing a bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a similar field.
• Previous laboratory, research, or technical project experience through coursework, academic projects, or internships.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to accurately collect, interpret, and summarize technical data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with data analysis, statistical methods, or scientific testing.

Responsibilities

• Support process development, manufacturing trials, and product development projects in laboratory and production environments.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analytical evaluations of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental and manufacturing data to support process improvements and technical decision-making.
• Assist with formulation development, material evaluations, and process optimization studies.
• Prepare samples, materials, and equipment for testing, development, and production trials.
• Monitor and document process parameters, product quality attributes, and manufacturing performance metrics.
• Collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering teams to investigate technical challenges and develop practical solutions.
• Participate in troubleshooting activities, root cause investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Evaluate new materials, manufacturing processes, and processing technologies to support innovation and operational excellence.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, batch records, technical reports, and project documentation.
• Follow safety, environmental, and quality procedures in laboratory and manufacturing settings.
• Prepare technical summaries, presentations, and recommendations for project teams and leadership.
• Present project findings and key learnings at the conclusion of the internship.
• Apply OE/Lean practices, including 5S, Kaizen, Daily Management Control, and Standard Work.

Benefits

• Structured learning and development experiences.
• Mentorship and coaching from experienced professionals.
• Speaker Series events featuring business and technical leaders.
• Networking events and Coffee Chats with employees and fellow interns.
• Exposure to career opportunities across a global manufacturing and technology organization.
• Opportunity to present work and accomplishments to business leaders.
• Professional networking and experience intended to prepare interns for future internships and full-time career opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern