R&D Intern - Polymer Composite Formulation & Processing

Onsite

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.

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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.

R&D Intern supports the development of polymer composite decking through formulation, processing, testing, and technical evaluation. The intern will contribute to laboratory- and production-scale trials, analyze performance data, and translate technical findings into actionable recommendations for R&D and cross‑functional partners. By the end of the internship, the intern will:

• 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.

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 while completing assigned work.

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.

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an 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.

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