R&D Tribology Lab Summer 2027 Internship

FALL CREEK FARM & NURSERY; Lexington (KY); On-site; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Valvoline Global Operations is seeking a motivated student for its R&D Tribology Lab Summer Internship in Lexington, KY. You will contribute to bench-top tribology testing, lubricant blending, data post-processing, and technical reporting under supervision.

The internship is paid, on-site, and runs up to 12 weeks starting in May 2027. Ideal candidates are pursuing a BS/MS in Mechanical/Chemical Engineering or related STEM, with lab experience and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; pursuing BS/MS in Mechanical/Chemical Eng, Materials Science, Chemistry, or related STEM field.
• Hands-on laboratory or testing environment experience.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data analysis/visualization tools.

Responsibilities

• Conduct bench-top tribology testing to evaluate lubricant performance.
• Assist in blending experimental lubricant samples.
• Post-process test data, perform analyses, and draft technical reports.
• Follow safety protocols, chemical hygiene plans, and lab guidelines.

Skills

Laboratory experience

Communication skills

MS Office proficiency

Education

High school diploma

Pursuing BS/MS in STEM

Tools

Microsoft Office

Data analysis tools

Job description

Career Opportunities: R&D Tribology Lab Summer 2027 Internship (2621)

Requisition ID2621-Posted09/17/2026-R&D Strategic Research-Research and Development-US-KY-Lexington (HDQ)-Supply Chain/Operations/Manufacturing-0 - 10%

Why Valvoline Global Operations?

At Valvoline Global Operations, we're proud to be The Original Motor Oil, but we've never rested on being first. Founded in 1866, we introduced the world's first branded motor oil, staking our claim as a pioneer in the automotive and industrial solutions industry. Today, as an affiliate of Aramco, one of the world's largest integrated energy and chemicals companies, we are driven by innovation and committed to creating sustainable solutions for a better future.

With a global presence, we develop future-ready products and provide best-in-class services for our partners around the world. For us, originality isn't just about where we began; it's about where we're headed and how we'll lead the way. We are originality in motion.

Our corporate values—Care, Integrity, Passion, Unity, and Excellence—are at the heart of everything we do. These values define how we operate, how we treat one another, and how we engage with our partners, customers, and the communities we serve. At Valvoline Global, we are united in our commitment to:

• Treating everyone with care.
• Acting with unwavering integrity.
• Striving for excellence in all endeavors.
• Delivering on our commitments with passion.
• Collaborating as one unified team.

When you join Valvoline Global, you'll become part of a culture that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence. Together, we're shaping the future of automotive and industrial solutions.

How You'll Make an Impact

The Research and Development (R&D) Intern will have the opportunity to contribute to innovative tribology projects, bench-top testing, lubricant blending, test data post-processing, technical reporting, and predictive modeling and analysis.

Valvoline Global Operations Americas Headquarters is located in Lexington, KY. We prefer candidates willing to work an in-office work schedule (4x per week).

What our internship provides:

• Paid on-site summer internship (up to 12 weeks) starting in May 2027

Responsibilities Include

• Conduct bench-top tribology testing to evaluate lubricant performance.
• Assist in blending experimental lubricant samples
• Post-process test data, perform statistical analyses, and draft technical reports
• Strictly adhere to all Valvoline safety protocols, chemical hygiene plans, and laboratory guidelines.
• Complete additional technical tasks as determined by Valvoline from time to time in its sole discretion.
• Follow all safety protocols and company procedures in a lab/testing setting

What You'll Need

• High school diploma or equivalent required; currently pursuing a B.S./M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, Chemistry, or a related STEM discipline.
• Hands-on experience working in a laboratory or technical testing environment
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and its data analysis and visualization tools.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds (ocassionally 40lbs), walk, climb, and stand for extended period

Valvoline Global is an equal opportunity employer. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and skills. We strictly prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind, regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected characteristic.

We are committed to ensuring accessibility throughout our recruitment process. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the recruitment or selection process, please contact us at:.

This contact information is solely for accommodation requests. For inquiries about application status, please use the appropriate channels listed in your application materials.

Are You Ready to Make an Impact?

At Valvoline Global, we're looking for passionate and talented individuals to join our journey of innovation and excellence. Are you ready to shape the future with us?