Packaging Engineering Intern, Summer 2027

Smurfit Westrock; Livonia (MI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Training & development

Global packaging company

Sustainability focus

Job summary

Smurfit Westrock is seeking a Packaging Engineering Intern for Summer 2027 in Michigan. You will assist with design, development, testing, and evaluation of protective packaging solutions, gaining hands-on experience with corrugated packaging, foam, and related materials while supporting customer projects and testing activities.

You will collaborate with Packaging Engineers, Designers, Sales and Operations to learn packaging development from concept to production, supporting CAD work, data

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or a related field.
• Coursework related to packaging design, materials, manufacturing processes, or package testing preferred.
• Familiarity with CAD software such as ArtiosCAD or SolidWorks preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in design and development of packaging solutions for customers.
• Support sketches, CAD drawings, specifications, samples, and project documentation.
• Assist in packaging testing, validation, and data collection activities.
• Analyze test results and help prepare reports and recommendations.
• Evaluate materials and designs for performance and manufacturability.
• Support projects from concept through prototype and production stages.
• Participate in meetings and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Utilize CAD to modify designs and create simple concepts.

Skills

CAD software

MS Office

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Time management

Education

Bachelor's in Packaging Engineering or Packaging Science

Tools

ArtiosCAD

SolidWorks

Job description

Packaging Engineering Intern, Summer 2027

MI Detroit

20-Oct-2026

General Description of Position:

The Packaging Engineer Intern will support the Packaging Engineering team in the design, development, testing, and evaluation of innovative protective packaging solutions. This internship provides hands-on experience working with corrugated packaging, foam, and other packaging materials while assisting with customer projects, packaging analysis, CAD design, and testing activities.

The intern will collaborate with Packaging Engineers, Designers, Sales, and Operations teams to gain exposure to packaging development processes from concept through implementation. This position is designed to provide practical industry experience for students pursuing a degree in Packaging Engineering or Packaging Science.

Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Packaging Engineering, Packaging Science, or a related field, preferably at Michigan State University's School of Packaging
• Completion of coursework related to packaging design, materials, manufacturing processes, or package testing preferred
• Familiarity with CAD software such as ArtiosCAD, SolidWorks, or similar design programs preferred
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Willingness to learn packaging design, testing methodologies, and manufacturing processes

Essential Functions/Job Duties:

• Assist Packaging Engineers with the design and development of packaging solutions for customers
• Support the creation of sketches, CAD drawings, specifications, samples, and project documentation
• Assist in packaging testing, validation, and data collection activities
• Analyze test results and help prepare reports and recommendations
• Evaluate packaging materials and designs for performance, manufacturability, and cost effectiveness
• Support package development projects from concept through prototype and production stages
• Participate in customer and internal project meetings as needed
• Collaborate with Packaging Engineers, Designers, Sales, and Operations personnel to support project objectives
• Utilize CAD software to modify existing packaging designs and create simple design concepts
• Assist with sample development and coordination of package testing activities
• Maintain project records, data, and documentation in accordance with company standards
• Comply with all company policies and procedures, including safety requirements and good housekeeping practices
• Develop an understanding of packaging materials, testing methods, manufacturing processes, and customer requirements

Additional Functions/Job Duties:

• Provide reports, project updates, and presentations as requested
• Support continuous improvement and cost-reduction initiatives
• Assist with research on packaging trends, materials, and sustainability opportunities
• Other duties as assigned

What we offer:

• Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities
• An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.