Chemical Engineer Intern, Summer 2027 - LaPorte

Kuraray America, Inc.; La Porte (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Kuraray America, Inc. in La Porte, Texas is seeking a Chemical Engineering Intern for the summer.

The internship provides hands-on experience in a fast-paced chemical plant environment, with mentorship from experienced engineers and exposure to safety, process understanding, and data analysis. You will split time between a major project and daily tasks, participate in PSM/MOC activities, assist with process troubleshooting in VAM and PVOH units, and help develop CAPEX and maintenance scopes.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a college or university for a B.S. in Chemical Engineering and at least two years of college completed.
• GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and demonstrated extracurricular achievement.
• Strong communication and leadership skills; adaptability and integrity.

Responsibilities

• Develop familiarity with Process Safety Management (PSM) and Management of Change (MOC) through participation in a PHA and MOC package development.
• Join the Cost Kaizen La Porte Team to analyze process and SAP data; help develop charters for reliability, efficiency, and cost-reduction projects.
• Assist plant Chemical Engineers with process and equipment troubleshooting in VAM and PVOH units.
• Participate in development of CAPEX project scopes or maintenance work scopes for running and maintenance activities.
• Apply skills to an internship project with an exit presentation to plant management.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Academic performance

Education

Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering

Tools

SAP

Job description

Title: Chemical Engineering Intern, Summer 2027

Location: La Porte, Texas

Who we are:

Voted one of the Nation's Best and Brightest Companies to Work for, Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) is a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber, and resin production. With top-of-the-line research and production facilities and a vast network of supplies from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. Kuraray America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Company, Ltd. Based in Tokyo, Japan. Kuraray has operations in 31 countries and employs more than 11,000 employees, including over 800 in the United States.

Why Kuraray:

Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Our team members are dedicated to expanding our business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability.

As a part of Kuraray America, Inc., our team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. Our international presence and resources allow us to be a world-leading innovator in the industries we service. Yet, despite our size, our people are more than just a number. As a new team member, you can expect to earn responsibility quickly. Our commitment to our people is visible in our comprehensive benefits package. As a Kuraray team member, you will have the opportunity to enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.

Internship Summary:

Kuraray's paid internship program allows students the opportunity to obtain valuable, applicable work experience in a fast‑paced, and challenging environment. The program blends real‑world experience with an extensive overview of the chemical industry. Knowledgeable mentors will provide guidance as you gain professional hands‑on experience. The internship will be 13 weeks in duration for the summer of 2025 with flexible start dates. Student interns must be able to work full‑time.

The internship will be split between a major project and daily tasks.

No Housing will be provided as part of the internship.

Responsibilities:

• Develop a familiarity with chemical plant Process Safety Management (PSM) and Management of Change (MOC) through participation in a cyclical or project Process Hazard Analysis (PHA) and the development of MOC packages.
• Join the Cost Kaizen La Porte Team to help analyze process and SAP data; develop charters for potential reliability, efficiency, and cost reduction projects; and assist with the active team projects.
• Assist the plant Chemical Engineers with process and process equipment troubleshooting in the vinyl acetate monomer (VAM) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) units.
• Participate in the development of Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) project scopes for authorization. Alternatively, participate in the development of work scopes for both running maintenance and the maintenance activities that will be performed.
• Apply these skills to an internship project with an exit presentation to plant management.

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university.
• Pursuing a B.S. in Chemical Engineering.
• Completed at least two years of college education before beginning internship.
• Strong academic performance minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA and extracurricular achievement.
• Demonstrated communication and leadership skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and proven track record of adaptability, innovation, initiative and integrity.
• Must have legal U.S. working authorization to participate in the program.
• Must successfully pass pre‑employment screening process.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S.

Kuraray America, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer AA M/F/disability/protected veteran status

No third party candidates accepted.