R&D Intern, Water Technology

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, Timber Tech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and Stru Xure®. With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally.

Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities. For more information, visit  .

As a James Hardie intern, you will gain hands-on experience in your chosen field while contributing to meaningful projects that drive business results. Our 12-week paid internship program is designed to provide real-world industry exposure, strengthen your professional and technical skills, and help prepare you for a successful career. Throughout the program, you will collaborate with experienced professionals, build valuable relationships across the organization, and take on work that makes a measurable impact.

You will also have access to mentoring opportunities and professional development resources to support your growth and career aspirations.

Gain hands-on experience in water technology research while supporting sustainability and operational goals. You will develop technical and research skills, contribute to active R&D projects, explore sustainable product innovation, and apply academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges that improve environmental performance and resource efficiency.

• Assist in designing and conducting laboratory experiments to evaluate wastewater treatment technologies and processes.
• Perform water-quality testing, operate analytical instruments, and analyze experimental data.
• Support the operation and monitoring of laboratory-scale and pilot-scale water-treatment systems.
• Develop and test fiber cement prototypes using materials generated from wastewater-treatment processes.
• Prepare technical reports, summarize findings, and present project results and recommendations to the team.

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.00.
• 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.

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Materials Science/Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Prior internship, co‑op, laboratory research, or relevant work experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and data‑interpretation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document results and present technical findings.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team‑oriented environment.

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $20 to $25 per hour. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and may change over time.

• Full‑time work experience and competitive pay
• Meaningful projects with business impact
• Mentorship and guidance
• Feedback and evaluation
• Networking opportunities and skill development

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all…