Process Engineering Intern (LC) - Summer 2027

RPM SPG; Lake Charles (LA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Carboline, a global coatings manufacturer and part of RPM International, offers a 12-week Process Engineering Internship in Lake Charles, LA. You will work with engineers to streamline processes, apply LEAN tools, and analyze designs for manufacturability, while supporting safety and sustainability initiatives.

The role emphasizes hands-on learning, cross-functional collaboration, and exposure to CAD/CAM tools, time studies, and continuous improvement methodologies, with housing arrangements in

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering or a related field.
• Available to work 30-40 hours per week from May through August.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Engineering Team to explore and optimize manufacturing methods and processes.
• Gain exposure to LEAN manufacturing, ergonomics, time studies, 5S, Kaizen, and other productivity improvement methodologies.
• Analyze engineering design documents, prototypes, and change orders for manufacturability.
• Coordinate with cross-functional teams to implement or revise manufacturing processes.
• Take ownership of additional responsibilities as assigned by the department manager.

Skills

LEAN manufacturing

5S

Kaizen

Six Sigma

Time studies

Education

Engineering degree

Tools

CAD/CAM

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION Summer 2027 Internship Opportunity!

Title: Process Engineering Intern

Location: Lake Charles, Louisiana

Summary: Are you ready to kickstart your career with a company that's making a global impact? Carboline is looking for motivated, curious, and driven students to join our team for an unforgettable summer internship experience! This immersive 12-week program (Anticipated: May 17, 2027 - August 6, 2027) offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience, build lasting connections, and make a meaningful impact-all before heading back to campus. As a Process Engineering Intern, you'll be at the forefront of driving manufacturing excellence-partnering with engineers to streamline processes, boost efficiency, and innovate with LEAN, 5S, Kaizen, and Six Sigma tools. You'll analyze designs for manufacturability, support safety and sustainability efforts, and help shape smarter production strategies using CAD/CAM and time studies. This is a fast-paced, hands-on role where your ideas and energy fuel real impact.

What You’ll Gain:

• Meaningful, hands‑on experience working on impactful projects that contribute to Carboline's success.
• Exposure to cross‑functional collaboration and insight into how a global organization operates.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship from experienced leaders.
• A chance to enhance your skills and apply classroom knowledge in a real‑world setting.
• Participation in team‑building activities and a workplace culture that values innovation, integrity, and growth.

Minimum Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering or a related field. Available to work 30-40 hours per week from May through August.
• Strong communication, organization, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn.

Physical Requirements:

• Expect light physical activity and extended computer use (up to 8 hours/day). Occasional visits to the production floor will require proper footwear and PPE.
• Must be able to lift/move up to 15 pounds as needed.
• Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; noise level is typically moderate.
• Students must have housing arrangements in or near Lake Charles, LA for the summer, as housing allowance is not provided.

Essential Functions:

• Collaborate with the Engineering Team to explore and optimize manufacturing methods and processes.
• Gain exposure to LEAN manufacturing, ergonomics, time studies, 5S, Kaizen, and other productivity improvement methodologies.
• Analyze engineering design documents, prototypes, and change orders for manufacturability.
• Partner with EH&S personnel to support environmental and safety initiatives.
• Assist in evaluating equipment, tooling, materials, and automation vs. manual production decisions.
• Coordinate with cross‑functional teams to implement or revise manufacturing processes.
• Conduct time studies, document workflows, and contribute to Lean and Six Sigma initiatives.
• Utilize CAD/CAM tools for design‑related tasks.
• Take ownership of additional responsibilities as assigned by the department manager.
• Champion Carboline's commitment to safety and quality by adhering to all relevant policies and procedures.

Who We Are:

Carboline is a St. Louis‑based coatings manufacturer with a global reach. The company, founded in 1947, produces high‑quality performance coatings, linings, and fireproofing products in more than 20 manufacturing facilities around the world. Carboline has been ranked a top workplace, so culture and maintaining a safe and clean work environment is something we take very seriously. Carboline is part of RPM International Inc., a $7.6 billion, multinational company with subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings, sealants, building materials and related services. From homes and workplaces to infrastructure and precious landmarks, RPM's market‑leading brands are trusted by consumers and professionals alike to help build a better world. If you want to be part of a growing global organization with opportunity for growth, we would like to meet you.

What We Offer:

We offer a team atmosphere that fosters cooperation and creativity; a management team committed to employee development and an environment where people are empowered to make decisions. Our career opportunities offer unlimited earnings potential, and our comprehensive benefits package is among the best in the industry which includes affordable benefits, a company match 401K plan and a retirement pension plan. Carboline is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace. Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans are encouraged to apply. "In order to be the best, we must hire the best."