Product Development Intern (Auto)

tesa; Sparta (MI); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship program

Hands-on project work

Exposure to Automotive BU

Job summary

tesa is seeking a Product Development Intern for our Automotive business unit to join the Product Development team from May 17th to August 13th, 2027. You will support material qualification, prototype development, and testing within a multinational R&D environment.

You will gain hands-on experience with PSA tape technology, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration while contributing to scale-up activities and feasibility studies for high-performance tapes.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Product Development, Materials Science, Chemistry, Industrial Design, or related field with 30+ credits.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Comfortable standing and moving in a facility.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
• Able to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Valid driver's license and up to 20% travel to Grand Rapids and Novi.

Responsibilities

• Qualify raw materials in partnership with Supply Chain for cost-effective options.
• Create tape prototypes through lab or pilot coating.
• Test prototypes with laboratory instruments and analyze data.
• Troubleshoot technically and propose solutions.
• Assist scale-up during production trials as needed.
• Conduct feasibility studies for high-performance PSA tapes.
• Identify cost-effective adhesive options for implementation.
• Perform basic physical and application testing for customers.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Time management

Driving license

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering/related field

Tools

MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

MS Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

Are you ready to revolutionize tape with us?

At tesa, we're not just colleagues; we're collaborators who thrive on pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. Our mission is to create sustainable adhesive solutions that improve the work, products, and lives of our customers - we’re passionate about making a difference!

We are looking for a Product Development Intern to support our Automotive business unit (BU) and work alongside our Product Development team from May 17th - August 13th, 2027. This internship provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands‑on experience in a multinational company with a focus on Research & Development.

How You'll Help The Formula

• Qualify additional raw materials in partnership with Supply Chain to ensure the most cost-effective options.
• Create PSA tape prototypes through lab and/or pilot coating.
• Test prototypes using laboratory instruments, analyze data, and draw conclusions.
• Conduct technical troubleshooting and recommend solutions and next steps.
• Support scale-up activities during production trials as needed.
• Conduct feasibility studies for high-performance PSA tapes.
• Identify high-performance, cost-effective adhesive options for implementation.
• Perform basic physical and application testing for customers.
• Other duties as assigned.

Key Elements For Your Role

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Product Development, Materials Science, Chemistry, Industrial Design, or a related field with at least 30+ credit hours.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
• Must be able to stand at workstation and/or move throughout the facility most of the day.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and within cross-functional teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel to Gand Rapids to participate in different internship program initiatives (and possibly Novi once or twice); up to 20%.
• Requires normal lifting, use of both hands and correctable vision.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous internship, project, laboratory, or research experience.
• Experience with data analysis, product testing, or process improvement.
• Interest in industrial, manufacturing, automotive, or consumer product applications.
• Experience presenting project findings or recommendations.