R&D Intern

Minerals Technologies; Hoffman Estates (IL); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Minerals Technologies Inc. (MTI) invites an R&D Intern to join its Research & Development team in Hoffman Estates, IL.

This hands-on role bridges product development and commercial manufacturing, involving formulation development, process optimization, analytical testing, and data-driven improvement initiatives. Under supervision of scientists, engineers, and manufacturing professionals, you will gain experience across laboratory operations, scale-up activities, and cross-functional

Qualifications

• Pursuing a Bachelor's degree with emphasis in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, or Materials Science.
• Experience with data analysis, statistical methods, or scientific testing is a plus.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Support process development, manufacturing trials, and product development projects in lab and production settings.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analytical evaluations of materials and finished products.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data to support improvements.
• Assist with formulation development and process optimization studies.
• Prepare samples and equipment for testing and manufacturing trials.
• Document parameters, quality attributes, and performance metrics.

Skills

Lab experience

Data analysis

Excel

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemistry or related

Tools

PowerPoint

Job description

Overview

Minerals Technologies Inc. (MTI)

MTI is a leading, technology-driven specialty minerals company that develops, produces, and markets a broad range of mineral and mineral-based products, related systems and services. MTI serves a wide range of consumer and industrial markets, including household and personal care, paper, foundry, steel, construction and environmental solutions around the world.

Why Intern at MTI?

• Develop professional skills through structured learning and development experiences.
• Learn from experienced professionals through mentorship and coaching.
• Participate in our Speaker Series events featuring business and technical leaders.
• Connect with employees and fellow interns through networking events and Coffee Chats.
• Explore career opportunities across a global manufacturing and technology organization.
• Present your work and accomplishments to business leaders at the end of your internship.
• Build a professional network and gain valuable experience that prepares you for future internships and full-time career opportunities.

AtMTI, interns are valued contributors who work alongside experienced professionals to solve real business challenges and make meaningful contributions from day one.

Responsibilities

Job Summary:

The Research & Development (R&D) Intern will gain hands‑on experience supporting projects that bridge product development and commercial manufacturing. Working alongside scientists, engineers, and manufacturing professionals, the intern will contribute to process optimization, formulation development, manufacturing trials, analytical testing, and continuous improvement initiatives. This role provides an opportunity to apply chemistry and chemical engineering principles in real‑world production environments while developing practical skills in data analysis, problem‑solving, process scale‑up, and technical troubleshooting.

The internship is designed for students interested in understanding how products move from development through manufacturing, while gaining exposure to laboratory operations, process development, and cross‑functional collaboration.

Primary Duties & Responsibilities:

• Support process development, manufacturing trials, and product development projects in laboratory and production environments.
• Conduct laboratory testing and analytical evaluations of raw materials, intermediates, and finished products.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret experimental and manufacturing data to support process improvements and technical decision‑making.
• Assist with formulation development, material evaluations, and process optimization studies.
• Prepare samples, materials, and equipment for testing, development, and production trials.
• Monitor and document process parameters, product quality attributes, and manufacturing performance metrics.
• Collaborate with R&D, Manufacturing, Quality, and Engineering teams to investigate technical challenges and develop practical solutions.
• Participate in troubleshooting activities, root cause investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Evaluate new materials, manufacturing processes, and processing technologies to support innovation and operational excellence.
• Maintain accurate laboratory notebooks, batch records, technical reports, and project documentation.
• Follow all safety, environmental, and quality procedures while working in laboratory and manufacturing settings.
• Prepare technical summaries, presentations, and recommendations for project teams and leadership.
• Present project findings and key learnings at the conclusion of the internship.

OE/Lean: 5S, Kaizen, Daily Management Control, Standard Work

Qualifications

Qualifications/Requirements:

The requirements listed in the sections that follow are representative of the knowledge, skills and/or abilities required to perform the duties of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions (primary duties) of the job.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Previous laboratory, research, or technical project experience through coursework, academic projects, or internships.
• Experience with data analysis, statistical methods, or scientific testing is a plus.

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to accurately collect, interpret, and summarize technical data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and willingness to learn.

Education:

The candidate must be currently enrolled at an accredited college or university pursuing a Bachelor's degree with an emphasis in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science, Materials Science or similar field.

Working Conditions:

While performing the duties of this position, the employee may work in a combination of office, laboratory, manufacturing, or other operational environments depending on assigned projects and business needs.

Responsibilities may include sitting, standing, walking, bending, and using standard office equipment including computers, telephones, printers, and copiers. The position may also require interaction with manufacturing equipment, laboratory instruments, production processes, or outdoor work areas under the supervision of Company personnel.

The employee will regularly communicate with internal and external stakeholders through face‑to‑face interactions, telephone calls, electronic communications, and written correspondence.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including safety glasses, hearing protection, hard hats, steel‑toed footwear, high‑visibility clothing, and other site‑specific PPE, may be required when entering manufacturing, laboratory, or field locations. Adherence to all MTI safety policies, procedures, and training requirements is mandatory.

Work Hours:

Work schedule will be established based on business needs and the intern's academic schedule and availability.

Safety Training:

New employees hired into this position will receive New Employee Safety Training through the Company's learning management system.

Federal Applicant Information