TS&D Lab Intern, Summer 2027

Kuraray America, Inc.; Pasadena (TX); On-site; USD 25,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

Kuraray America, Inc. invites applicants for a paid TS&D Lab Intern position for Summer 2027 in Pasadena, TX. The role offers hands-on work in polymer and resin testing, guided by experienced TS&D engineers.

Interns gain real world experience, mentorship, and exposure to a broad range of analytical techniques in a fast-paced chemical research environment. Qualifications include enrollment in engineering/chemistry-related studies, strong GPA, and good communication skills.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a college or university with good academic standing.
• Working toward a relevant Engineering/Polymer Science/Chemistry degree.
• Strong grades (GPA 3.0/4.0) and motivation to learn in a lab setting.
• Evidence of communication, leadership and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Prepare PVOH resin, solution and samples for testing and evaluation.
• Perform physical, chemical, and application-based testing on projects.
• Collect, analyze, and present data; develop and maintain SOPs.
• Prepare technical reports and support communications.
• Assist with sample shipments and project execution activities.
• Use Salesforce, Asana, and other systems to track work.
• Support TS&D engineers with documentation and experiments.
• Calibrate and maintain laboratory equipment; contribute to safety and regulatory tasks.
• Participate in special TS&D projects as needed.

Skills

Strong academic performance

Communication skills

Leadership skills

Adaptability

Problem solving

Education

Pursuing a B.S/B.A. in Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, Chemistry, or related

Tools

Salesforce

Asana

Job description

Title: TS&D Lab Intern, Summer 2027

Location: Pasadena, TX

Who we are:

Voted one of the Nation's Best and Brightest Companies to Work for, Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) is a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber, and resin production. With top-of-the-line research and production facilities and a vast network of supplies from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. Kuraray America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Company, Ltd. Based in Tokyo, Japan. Kuraray has operations in 32 countries and employs more than 11,000 employees, including over 800 in the United States.

Why Kuraray:

Founded in 1926, Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Our team members are dedicated to expanding our business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability.

As a part of Kuraray America, Inc., our team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. Our international presence and resources allow us to be a world-leading innovator in the industries we service. Yet, despite our size, our people are more than just a number. As a new team member, you can expect to earn responsibility quickly. Our commitment to our people is visible in our comprehensive benefits package. As a Kuraray team member, you will have the opportunity to enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.

Celebrating 100 Years of Innovation

Be part of a historic milestone as we celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2026! Our centennial year will be filled with local and global events, storytelling campaigns, and sustainability initiatives that reflect Kuraray's legacy and future vision. Interns are encouraged to participate in commemorative projects and anniversary events while experiencing firsthand what it means to be part of a company with a century-long commitment to innovation, safety, and community impact.

Internship Summary:

Kuraray's paid internship program allows students the opportunity to obtain valuable, applicable work experience in a fast-paced, and challenging environment. The program blends real world experience with an extensive overview of the chemical industry. Knowledgeable mentors will provide guidance as you gain professional hands‑on experience.

Housing will not be provided for the internship

Responsibilities:

• Preparation of PVOH resin, solution, and formulated samples for testing and evaluation.
• Execution of physical, chemical, and application-based testing for customer, development, and fundamental research projects.
• Data collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of scientific findings.
• Development, documentation, and maintenance of laboratory test methods and SOPs.
• Preparation of technical reports, summaries, and supporting data for internal and external communications.
• Support of customer sample shipment and project execution activities.
• Use of Salesforce, Asana, and other systems to manage project assignments, document results, and track project progress.
• Assistance with technical documentation, promotional materials, and research activities led by TS&D Engineers.
• Laboratory equipment calibration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support of safety, environmental, and regulatory compliance activities, including SDS reviews, chemical approvals, audits, and waste management.
• Participation in special projects and other TS&D initiatives as required.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university.
• Completed at least two years of college education before beginning internship.
• Pursuing a B.S/B.A. in Engineering, Polymer Science, Material Science, Chemistry, or related.
• Past practical experience in laboratory environment (e.g. handling chemicals, operating laboratory equipment, generating and manipulating data)
• Strong academic performance minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA and strong technical motivation.
• Demonstrated communication and leadership skills.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and proven track record of adaptability, innovation, initiative and integrity.
• Must have legal U.S. working authorization to participate in the program.
• Must successfully pass pre-employment screening process.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous industrial laboratory experience in polymers, coatings, adhesives, paper, packaging, nonwovens, or related application areas.
• Experience working with polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH) or other water-soluble polymers.
• Experience operating analytical and physical testing equipment such as viscometers, particle size analyzers, moisture analyzers, tensile testers, DSC, TGA, or similar instruments.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze experimental data and prepare technical reports, presentations, and summaries.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including data analysis, graphing, and reporting.
• Strong collaboration and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with technical teams and customers.

Competencies

• Customer Focus
  • Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer‑centric solutions.
• Business Insight
  • Applying knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organization's goals.
• Cultivates Innovation
  • Creating new and better ways for the organization to be successful.

• Action Oriented
  • Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
• Ensures Accountability
  • Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.
• Drives Results
  • Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstance
• Collaborates
  • Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Values Difference
  • Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization
• Communicates Effectively
  • Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
• Courage
  • Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said.
• Instills Trust
  • Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
• Situational Adaptability
  • Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S

Kuraray America, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer disability/protected veteran status.

No third-party candidates accepted.