Engineering Intern

James Hardie; Peru (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship and guidance

Competitive pay

Networking opportunities

Professional development resources

Job summary

James Hardie Building Products Inc. invites applications for a Manufacturing Operations Intern to gain hands-on experience in a structured 12-week program.

You will work on continuous improvement projects aimed at reducing downtime, waste, and variation, while sharpening skills in reliability, quality and safety within a manufacturing setting. The internship emphasizes collaboration across departments, project ownership, and measurable business impact, with mentoring, professional development

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline at an accredited university.
• Anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Minimum GPA 3.00.”

Responsibilities

• Improve plant performance through continuous improvement projects.
• Work on initiatives to reduce downtime, scrap and process variation while improving reliability and quality.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Electrical engineering

Manufacturing engineering

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline

Job description

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®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.

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 www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

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.

What You’ll Do:

As a Manufacturing Operations Intern, you will gain hands‑on experience improving plant performance through continuous improvement projects. You will work on initiatives focused on reducing downtime, scrap, and process variation, while improving equipment reliability, product quality, safety, and operational efficiency. This role provides an opportunity to develop problem‑solving skills and contribute to projects that deliver meaningful business results.

Intern Responsibilities

• Own and complete a meaningful project
• Deliver measurable business impact
• Effectively communicate progress and results
• Work independently while seeking guidance when needed
• Collaborate across departments
• Learn quickly and adapt to a manufacturing environment
• Demonstrate professionalism, initiative, and accountability
• Present a final recommendation that adds value to the plant

What You’ll Bring:

• 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.

Preferred Skills

• Mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers

What You’ll Receive:

• Full-time work experience and competitive pay
• Meaningful projects with business impact
• Mentorship and guidance
• Feedback and evaluation
• Exposure to James Hardie culture
• Networking opportunities and skill development

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.