INTERN-R&D Lab Tech

Titan International, Inc; Union City, Northern (TN, KY); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Titan Tire / Tennessee Custom Mixing in Union City, TN invites a chemistry or engineering co-op student to join the Rubber Compounding Development Lab. You'll gain hands-on experience in material development, testing, and process improvement within an industrial R&D setting.

This role offers exposure to polymers, materials science, and manufacturing processes with mentorship from seasoned chemists and engineers, preparing you for a career in materials science or manufacturing.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, mechanical engineering, or related field.
• Strong interest in polymers, materials science, or manufacturing.
• Detail‑oriented with a strong commitment to safety.
• Ability to learn and operate laboratory equipment (training provided).
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets and basic data analysis.

Responsibilities

• Prepare rubber compounds using laboratory mixing and milling equipment.
• Assist with raw material weighing, batching, and documentation.
• Perform physical property testing (e.g., rheology, tensile, hardness, aging) following ASTM standards.
• Record, analyze, and maintain accurate experimental data and lab documentation.
• Support development of new formulations and process improvements.
• Participate in experimental design, trials, and troubleshooting activities.
• Follow all safety, environmental, and quality procedures.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Problem solving

Spreadsheet proficiency

Data analysis

Education

Chemistry

Chemical Engineering

Materials Science

Mechanical Engineering

Related field

Job description

Category: Hourly 1st shift Location: Tennessee (Union City)

Job Description

Titan Tire / Tennessee Custom Mixing is seeking a motivated Chemistry or Engineering co‑op student to join our Rubber Compounding Development Lab in Union City, TN. This hands‑on opportunity provides experience in material development, laboratory testing, and process improvement within an industrial R&D environment.

This position is ideal for students interested in polymers, materials science, and manufacturing processes, offering direct exposure to real‑world applications and product development.

Essential Functions

• Prepare rubber compounds using laboratory mixing and milling equipment
• Assist with raw material weighing, batching, and documentation
• Perform physical property testing (e.g., rheology, tensile, hardness, aging) following ASTM standards
• Record, analyze, and maintain accurate experimental data and lab documentation
• Support development of new formulations and process improvements
• Participate in experimental design, trials, and troubleshooting activities
• Follow all safety, environmental, and quality procedures

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in:
  • Chemistry
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Materials Science
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Or a related field
• Strong interest in polymers, materials science, or manufacturing
• Detail‑oriented with a strong commitment to safety
• Ability to learn and operate laboratory equipment (training provided)
• Strong communication, teamwork, and problem‑solving skills
• Proficiency with spreadsheets and basic data analysis

What You’ll Gain

• Hands‑on experience in rubber compounding, formulation, and testing
• Exposure to industrial R&D work flows and manufacturing processes
• Opportunity to contribute to projects impacting product performance
• Mentorship from experienced chemists and engineers
• A strong foundation for careers in materials science, engineering, or manufacturing