R&D Intern, Coating

Role details

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

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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.

What You’ll Do

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Internship Objective

Support the development of innovative coating systems, application processes, and aesthetic solutions for next-generation building products. Partner with scientists and engineers on research and development initiatives focused on coatings, protective materials, and product performance enhancements. Gain hands-on experience in materials development, laboratory testing, project execution, cross-functional collaboration, and vendor engagement while contributing to projects that advance product innovation and manufacturing capabilities.

Internship Responsibilities

• Support the development of innovative building-product solutions aligned with manufacturing processes.
• Contribute to research and development projects focused on product enhancement, performance improvement, and aesthetic innovation.
• Support materials research and testing activities related to protective and performance-enhancing technologies.
• Complete laboratory assignments with quality and timeliness, collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, and provide regular updates on project progress and results.

What You’ll Bring

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• 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

• Target majors: chemical engineering, chemistry, materials science
• Materials science knowledge, particularly in polymers.
• Resourcefulness and independent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to collaborate across R&D, engineering, operations, project teams, and vendors.
• Ability to organize work and support project milestones.

What You’ll Receive

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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 inthe 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

*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.*