Emerging Technology Intern - Summer 2027

Synchrony; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 33,000 - 45,000; Part time

Job summary

Synchrony’s Emerging Technology Center at UIUC Research Park is seeking interns to advance AI, data science, and other emerging technologies. Interns will work with Innovation Station and SMEs to deliver projects across disciplines such as market research, big data analytics, data visualization, proof-of-concept creation, and software development.

Ideal candidates communicate well, think critically, and stay detail-oriented.

Qualifications

• Must be enrolled as a full-time student at the University of Illinois.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 required.
• Commit 10–20 hours per week during the academic semester and up to 40 hours per week during summer break.
• Must be able to commute to the work location.

Responsibilities

• Support AI, data science, and other emerging tech projects for business stakeholders.
• Collaborate with Innovation Station and SMEs to deliver multi-disciplinary projects.
• Contribute to market/tech research, data visualization, PoCs, and software development.

Skills

Excellent communication

Critical thinking

Attention to detail

Microsoft Office

Analytical skills

Curiosity/fast learner

Planning/organization

Teamwork

Agile familiarity

Self-motivated

Education

UIUC student

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Role Summary/Purpose:

The Synchrony Emerging Technology Center at UIUC Research Park is looking for interns. The center will focus on advancing our internal capabilities in artificial intelligence, data science, and other emerging technology domains to create long-term value for our customers. Interns will work closely with our Innovation Station and SMEs to deliver projects for our business stakeholders. Projects can range across multiple disciplines such as basic market and technology research, big data analytics, proof-of-concept creation, data visualization, and software development.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Critical thinking with excellent judgment and initiative
• Self-motivator with great attention to detail
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Products
• Proven analytical skills
• Naturally curious and ability to learn quickly
• Demonstrated excellent planning and organizational skills
• Engaging personality with ability to work independently and in a team setting
• Familiarity with Agile project management methods and practices
• Perform other duties and/or special projects as assigned

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be registered as a full-time student at the University of Illinois
• Must be able to commute to the work location
• Have a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0
• Must be willing to commit 10 - 20 hours per week during the academic semester and/or 40 hours per week during summer break

Grade/Level: 07

The hourly rate range for this position is $24.00 - $33.50/hr USD Annual and is eligible for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.

Actual compensation offered within the posted salary range will be based upon work experience or skill level.

Our Way of Working:

We’re proud to offer you flexibility. At Synchrony, our way of working allows you to have the option to work from home near one of our Hubs or come into one of our offices.You will be required to commute to your nearestHub (either virtual or physical) for in-person engagement activities such as regularbusiness or team meetings, training and culture events.

*Field Sales and some Commercial team roles may have varied location requirements based upon partner obligations or preferences.

Eligibility Requirements:

• You must be 18 years or older
• You must have a high school diploma or equivalent
• You must be willing to take a drug test, submit to a background investigation and submit fingerprints as part of the onboarding process
• You must be able to satisfy the requirements of Section 19 of the Federal Deposit Insurance Act.
• New hires (Level 4-7) must have 9 months of continuous service with the company before they are eligible to post on other roles. Once this new hire time in position requirement is met, the associate will have a minimum 6 months’ time in position before they can post for future non-exempt roles. Employees, level 8 or greater, must have at least 18 months’ time in position before they can post. All internal employees must consistently meet performance expectations and have approval from your manager to post (or the approval of your manager and HR if you don’t meet the time in position or performance expectations).

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Our Commitment:

When you join us, you’ll be part of an inclusive culture where your individual skills, experience, and voice are not only heard – but valued. Together, we’re building a future where we can all belong, connect, and turn ideals into action. More than 50% of our workforce is engaged in our Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), where community and passion intersect to offer a safe space to learn and grow.

This starts when you choose to apply for a role at Synchrony. We ensure all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status. We’re proud to have an award-winning culture for all.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice:

• Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals with disabilities. Please tell us if you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a job or to perform your job. Examples of reasonable accommodation include making a change to the application process or work procedures, providing documents in an alternate format, using a sign language interpreter, or using specialized equipment.
• If you need special accommodations, please call our Career Support Line so that we can discuss your specific situation. We can be reached at 1-866-301-5627. Representatives are available from 8am – 5pm Monday to Friday, Central Standard Time

Job Family Group:

Information Technology