Product Development Intern; Auto

At tesa, we're not just colleagues; we're collaborators who thrive on pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. Our mission is to create sustainable adhesive solutions that improve the work, products, and lives of our customers - we’re passionate about making a difference!

We are looking for a Product Development Intern to support our Automotive business unit (BU) and work alongside our Product Development team from May 17th - August 13th, 2027. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in a multinational company with a focus on Research & Development.

• Qualify additional raw materials in partnership with Supply Chain to ensure the most cost-effective options.
• Create PSA tape prototypes through lab and/or pilot coating.
• Test prototypes using laboratory instruments, analyze data, and draw conclusions.
• Conduct technical troubleshooting and recommend solutions and next steps.
• Support scale-up activities during production trials as needed.
• Conduct feasibility studies for high-performance PSA tapes.
• Identify high-performance, cost-effective adhesive options for implementation.
• Perform basic physical and application testing for customers.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Product Development, Materials Science, Chemistry, Industrial Design, or a related field with at least 30+ credit hours.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Must be able to stand at workstation and/or move throughout the facility most of the day.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to Gand Rapids to participate in different internship program initiatives (and possibly Novi once or twice); up to 20%.
• Requires normal lifting, use of both hands and correctable vision.

• Previous internship, project, laboratory, or research experience.
• Experience with data analysis, product testing, or process improvement.
• Interest in industrial, manufacturing, automotive, or consumer product applications.
• Experience presenting project findings or recommendations.