R&D Intern

About the Role

The R&D Intern will support the development of polymer composite decking through formulation, processing, testing, and technical evaluation. This role contributes to laboratory- and production-scale trials, analyzes performance data, and translates technical findings into actionable recommendations for R&D and cross-functional partners.

Key Responsibilities

• Research and Technical Evaluation
• Complete technical literature reviews and benchmarking studies related to polymer composites, formulations, processing, and product performance.
• Support additive screening and evaluation activities, including data collection, interpretation, and comparison of results.
• Contribute ideas and technical insights during project discussions and problem-solving activities.
• Trial Planning and Execution
• Participate in planning sessions for laboratory-scale and production-scale trials.
• Attend laboratory and plant trials to collect processing data, document observations, and gather test samples.
• Follow all safety, quality, and laboratory best practices.
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• Maintain accurate experimental records, organize test data, and ensure traceability of results.
• Analyze experimental results using appropriate statistical and engineering methods.
• Prepare clear, concise, and technically sound reports with actionable recommendations.
• Present project findings to R&D and cross-functional teams, including Operations, Quality, and Engineering.

Internship Outcomes

• Build hands-on experience in polymer composite formulation, processing, testing, and data interpretation.
• Complete assigned research and technical evaluations with increasing independence while maintaining accurate, traceable records.
• Deliver a final technical report and capstone presentation summarizing findings, recommendations, key learnings, and business impact.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university.
• Anticipated graduation between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Available to work full-time for 12 weeks during summer 2027.
• Reliable transportation to and from the work location.
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Skills

• Target majors: polymer engineering, plastics engineering, materials science, materials engineering, chemical engineering, applied chemistry, or a related field.
• Strong interest in polymer materials, product design, and formulation development.
• Experience with modeling, simulation, or statistical analysis is a plus.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools and interest in AI-enabled technologies.
• Strong technical writing, reporting, presentation, and communication skills.
• Self-motivated, analytical, and eager to learn in a hands-on R&D environment.