R&D Intern - Polymer Composite Formulation & Processing

James Hardie; Wilmington (OH); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

James Hardie is seeking a Research and Technical Evaluation Intern to contribute to polymer composite decking development. The 12-week, full-time summer internship offers hands-on experience, mentoring, and real project impact.

You will collaborate across departments on targeted R&D initiatives and learn through bench- and production-scale activities. You will conduct literature reviews, plan and run trials, analyze data, and prepare clear reports.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in a relevant discipline with anticipated graduation between December 2027 and May 2029.
• Minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Available to work full-time for 12 weeks during summer 2027.
• Reliable transportation to the work location.
• Authorization to work in the United States.
• Preferred majors include polymer engineering, plastics engineering, materials science/engineering, or related fields.
• Strong interest in polymer materials, product design, and formulation development.
• Experience with modeling, simulation, or statistical analysis is a plus.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools and interest in AI-enabled technologies.
• Strong technical writing, reporting, presentation, and communication skills.
• Self-motivated, analytical, and eager to learn in a hands-on R&D environment.

Responsibilities

• Research and Technical Evaluation: conduct literature reviews and benchmarking on polymer composites, formulations, processing, and product performance.
• Trial Planning and Execution: participate in planning for laboratory-scale and production-scale trials and collect data.
• Data Analysis and Reporting: maintain records, analyze results, and prepare concise reports with actionable recommendations.
• Present project findings to R&D and cross-functional teams including Operations, Quality, and Engineering.

Skills

Polymer materials interest

Analytical mindset

Technical writing & presentation

Self-motivated & eager to learn

Collaboration & teamwork

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline

GPA 3.0 minimum

Tools

Data analysis tools

AI-enabled technologies

Job description

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.

With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

As a James Hardie intern, you will gain hands‑on experience in your chosen field while contributing to meaningful projects that drive business results. Our 12‑week paid internship program is designed to provide real‑world industry exposure, strengthen your professional and technical skills, and help prepare you for a successful career. Throughout the program, you will collaborate with experienced professionals, build valuable relationships across the organization, and take on work that makes a measurable impact. You will also have access to mentoring opportunities and professional development resources to support your growth and career aspirations.

R&D Intern supports the development of polymer composite decking through formulation, processing, testing, and technical evaluation. The intern will contribute to laboratory‑ and production‑scale trials, analyze performance data, and translate technical findings into actionable recommendations for R&D and cross‑functional partners. By the end of the internship, the intern will:

• Build hands‑on experience in polymer composite formulation, processing, testing, and data interpretation.
• Complete assigned research and technical evaluations with increasing independence while maintaining accurate, traceable records.
• Deliver a final technical report and capstone presentation summarizing findings, recommendations, key learnings, and business impact.

What You’ll Do:

Research and Technical Evaluation

• Complete technical literature reviews and benchmarking studies related to polymer composites, formulations, processing, and product performance.
• Support additive screening and evaluation activities, including data collection, interpretation, and comparison of results.
• Contribute ideas and technical insights during project discussions and problem‑solving activities.

Trial Planning and Execution

• Participate in planning sessions for laboratory‑scale and production‑scale trials.
• Attend laboratory and plant trials to collect processing data, document observations, and gather test samples.
• Follow all safety, quality, and laboratory best practices while completing assigned work.

Data Analysis and Reporting

• Maintain accurate experimental records, organize test data, and ensure traceability of results.
• Analyze experimental results using appropriate statistical and engineering methods.
• Prepare clear, concise, and technically sound reports with actionable recommendations.
• Present project findings to R&D and cross‑functional teams, including Operations, Quality, and Engineering.

What You’ll Bring:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Available to work full‑time for 12 weeks during summer 2027.
• Reliable transportation to and from the work location.
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Skills

• Target majors: polymer engineering, plastics engineering, materials science, materials engineering, hemical engineering, applied chemistry, or a related field.
• Strong interest in polymer materials, product design, and formulation development.
• Experience with modeling, simulation, or statistical analysis is a plus.
• Proficiency with data analysis tools and interest in AI‑enabled technologies that support research and decision‑making.
• Strong technical writing, reporting, presentation, and communication skills.
• Self‑motivated, analytical, and eager to learn in a hands‑on R&D environment.

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $20 to $25 per hour. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and may change over time.

• Full‑time work experience and competitive pay
• Meaningful projects with business impact
• Mentorship and guidance
• Feedback and evaluation
• Exposure to James Hardie culture
• Networking opportunities and skill development

This role is an opportunity to join the AZEK Group, LLC, a part of the James Hardie Building Products family of companies, where you’ll contribute to a culture driven by growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact.

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.