R&D Intern, Water Technology

James Hardie Corporation; Fontana (CA); On-site; USD 13,225,000 - 16,531,000; Full time

Job summary

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is seeking a summer intern to gain hands-on water technology research experience, supporting sustainability and operational goals.

You will design and run lab experiments, perform water-quality testing, monitor treatment systems, and help develop fiber cement prototypes from process byproducts. The program offers mentoring, real projects, and opportunities to present findings within the team.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with a strong GPA.
• Availability for full-time, 12-week summer internship in 2027.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and conduct laboratory experiments to evaluate wastewater treatment technologies.
• Perform water-quality testing and operate analytical instruments; analyze data.
• Support operation and monitoring of lab-scale and pilot-scale water-treatment systems.
• Develop and test fiber cement prototypes using materials from wastewater processes.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to the team.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Data interpretation

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Materials Science/Engineering or related

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 .

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.

Internship Objective

Gain hands-on experience in water technology research while supporting sustainability and operational goals. You will develop technical and research skills, contribute to active R&D projects, explore sustainable product innovation, and apply academic knowledge to real-world engineering challenges that improve environmental performance and resource efficiency.

What You’ll Do:

• Assist in designing and conducting laboratory experiments to evaluate wastewater treatment technologies and processes.
• Perform water-quality testing, operate analytical instruments, and analyze experimental data.
• Support the operation and monitoring of laboratory-scale and pilot-scale water-treatment systems.
• Develop and test fiber cement prototypes using materials generated from wastewater-treatment processes.
• Prepare technical reports, summarize findings, and present project results and recommendations to the team.

What You’ll Bring:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.00.
• 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

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in Materials Science/Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, or a related field.
• Prior internship, co‑op, laboratory research, or relevant work experience preferred.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving, and data‑interpretation skills.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to document results and present technical findings.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team‑oriented 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
• Networking opportunities and skill development

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.