R&D Polymer Science Intern - Azek

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

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

Develop practical polymer science and materials characterization skills through hands-on texture scanning, digital post-processing, and performance analysis of polymer decking. The intern will use physical and digital measurement tools to identify texture attributes that influence scratch, scuff, and surface-mark resistance, then translate the findings into a defined operating window.

By the end of the internship, the intern will:

• Build proficiency with texture-scanning equipment and digital file-processing methods.
• Analyze texture and performance data to identify meaningful relationships and conclusions.
• Summarize the testing approach, results, and learnings in a professional written report and capstone presentation

What You'll Do:

Texture Scanning

• Scan physical textures using available tools at the Wilmington location, including laser profilometers and an optical scanner.
• Follow established equipment procedures and maintain organized, traceable scan files.

Digital Processing and Analysis

• Process digital texture files and prepare them for analysis.
• Evaluate texture data against performance criteria such as scratch and mar resistance.
• Identify texture attributes that contribute to the desired performance criteria and help define an operating window.

Project Reporting

• Track project progress and findings through weekly updates.
• Document the testing approach, data analysis, conclusions, and key learnings in a written report.

What You'll Bring:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• 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 major: polymer science, material science, chemical engineering, chemistry
• Aptitude for hands-on work and careful execution of physical scans.
• Experience or interest in digital image or 3D file processing.
• Basic Python coding skills.
• Basic understanding of 3D printing, 3D scanning, or CNC operation.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and technical communication skills.

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
• Exposure to James Hardie culture
• Networking opportunities and skill development

This role is an opportunity to join the AZEK Group, LLC, a part of the James Hardie Building Products family of companies, where you'll contribute to a culture driven by growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact.

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.

Nearest Major Market: Cincinnati

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