Research & Development Intern

Hydro Extrusions • Troy, MI

1d

About The Position

Hydro Extrusions is a world-leading aluminium extrusion business counting around 100 production sites in 40 countries and employing 20,000 people. Through our unique combination of local expertise, global network, and unmatched R&D capabilities, we can offer everything from standards profiles to advanced development and manufacturing for most industries. Since 1905, Hydro has turned natural resources into valuable products for people and businesses with focus on a safe and good workplace for our 30,000 employees in more than 140 locations.

Summary: The Intern will support key Operational Excellence (OpEx) initiatives through hands‑on project work, including aluminum product evaluation and process improvement activities as guided by the functional manager. This role is ideal for a detail‑oriented, motivated individual with a strong technical mindset who is eager to learn how aluminum industrial manufacturing is sustained and enhanced by materials evaluation, research, and product development. The intern will contribute to meaningful OpEx efforts enabling safe, continuous improvement across Extrusion North America.

Requirements

• Actively pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Metallurgy, Materials Science, Engineering, or Technology.

Nice To Haves

• Manufacturing, industrial or laboratory experience with aluminum.
• Demonstrated hands-on aptitude for process investigations and characterizations, including formal communication through written and oral reporting.
• Mechanical testing and characterization.
• Demonstrated ability to collect, organize, analyze, and interpret data.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to engage effectively with cross‑functional stakeholders.
• Curiosity, initiative, and a willingness to learn in a fast‑paced manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

• Combine practical knowledge with available technical resources to support research and product development, enabling operations to increase productivity and improve quality.
• Metallographic preparation and analysis towards development of new processes within aluminum extrusion. or root cause investigation of production issues.
• Perform various mechanical testing methods towards mechanical performance evaluation of extruded and/or fabricated aluminum.
• Participate in project planning and execution, identifying and correcting deviations as they arise throughout project progression.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders across departments to advance OpEx initiatives and support plant needs.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees