RD Intern Summer 2026 San Diego CA

Saint-Gobain; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 27,276 - 38,848; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Comprehensive total rewards package

Job summary

A global leader in innovative materials is seeking an R&D Intern based in San Diego, California. This position offers a hands-on opportunity to support the Research & Development Engineering team with refining formulations and conducting experiments on wet-chemistry processes. Candidates should be enrolled in a relevant Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program and possess strong problem-solving and data analysis skills. Join a team committed to innovation and make a tangible impact in formulation science. Pay is $24 per hour.

Qualifications

• Commitment to academic excellence and professional development.
• Hands-on approach to innovative solutions.
• Ability to communicate technical findings concisely.

Responsibilities

• Support the R&D Engineering team in refining formulations.
• Conduct experiments on wet-chemistry processes.
• Document experimental procedures and findings.

Skills

Creative problem-solving

Data analysis

Interpersonal skills

Organizational skills

Education

Enrolled in a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program

Job description

WHY DO WE NEED YOU?

If you want to discover your greatest potential, Saint-Gobain provides one-of-a-kind opportunities for innovative problem solvers.

We're one of only two companies in the world that is consistently recognized as both a top Global Employer and a Top 100 Global Innovator, but Saint-Gobain's remarkable story and culture of innovation begins with a team of nearly 200,000 creative, diverse and passionate team members collaborating across the globe. We are committed to our mission to improve lives because, every day, we witness the enormous impact of our efforts on the world around us.

As an R&D Intern, your primary responsibility will be to provide essential support to our Research & Development Engineering team, focusing particularly on refining and enhancing our existing formulations. This multifaceted role encompasses various aspects of wet chemistry-based research and development, including formulating novel compounds, conducting thorough testing procedures, and analyzing results for both automotive and architectural films.

Your tasks will involve collaborating closely with engineers and researchers work on projects that help with improving the CO2 footprint of the manufacturing site. This will entail hands‑on experimentation on wet‑chemistry processes, recycling and reprocessing initiatives.

Additionally you may also be supporting ongoing projects and actively contribute to the development of new formulations tailored to meet specific product requirements and market demands. This may involve researching cutting‑edge technologies, identifying innovative ingredients, and optimizing formulation parameters to achieve desired properties such as durability, adhesion, and optical clarity.

Your role extends beyond laboratory experimentation to encompass comprehensive data analysis and documentation. You will meticulously record experimental procedures, observations, and outcomes, generating detailed reports to communicate findings effectively to the broader R&D team. By meticulously documenting your work, you will contribute valuable insights that inform future research directions and decision‑making processes.

Overall, this internship presents a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic field of research and development within the realm of film technologies. Through hands‑on experience and collaboration with industry experts, you will gain invaluable insights into the complexities of formulation science while playing a pivotal role in driving innovation and advancement within our organization.

IS THIS JOB FOR YOU?

Requirements

• Enrolled in a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. program in Materials Science, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Polymer Science, Polymer Engineering, Ceramics, Design, Data Science, or related technical fields, demonstrating a commitment to academic excellence and professional development.
• Possess a creative problem‑solving mindset coupled with a hands‑on approach, allowing for innovative solutions to complex challenges and a proactive approach to tasks and projects.
• Proficient in data analysis and report writing, capable of translating technical findings into clear, concise reports that effectively communicate insights and conclusions.
• Strong interpersonal and organizational skills, enabling effective collaboration within multidisciplinary teams and efficient management of tasks and priorities.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, adhering to established protocols and procedures to ensure a safe working environment for oneself and fellow team members, contributing to a culture of safety and accountability.
• Previous research or internship experience is advantageous, providing valuable exposure to laboratory practices, research methodologies, and project management principles, although not required.

LEGAL STATEMENT

Saint-Gobain provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state and local laws. Saint-Gobain is an equal opportunity employer of individuals with disabilities and supports the hiring of veterans.

Applicants for roles based in Washington state or remote roles that would be worked from Washington state are encouraged to direct any concerns regarding the state’s Pay Transparency laws to the SGNA HR Compliance team at [e-mail].

BENEFITS IN JOINING US

Certain states require pay information be provided in job postings. Saint-Gobain aims to deliver a comprehensive Total Rewards package to support our employees’ wellbeing and help improve daily life for themselves and their families. We believe in the importance of pay transparency in what we offer prospective candidates and provide the pay rate for this position which is $24 per hour.