Development and Innovation Intern

Position Summary

Huber is seeking a highly motivated Summer Intern to support our Technology Team in the development and introduction of new products. In this laboratory‑based role, you will assist the Technology Manager with testing and evaluating inorganic‑filled resin systems and other materials used in industrial applications. Key responsibilities include hands‑on material characterization, contributing to product and application development, and supporting customer trials through technical data generation and sample preparation.

As an intern, you will work closely with Technology Managers and Research Scientists, gaining meaningful real‑world experience in a collaborative and fast‑paced R&D environment.

Principal Duties & Responsibilities

• Sample Preparation: Prepare and handle samples for testing, including measuring, mixing, and diluting substances as required.
• Equipment Operation: Operate, maintain, and ensure proper calibration of laboratory instruments and equipment.
• Conducting Experiments: Perform experiments in accordance with established protocols and accurately record all observations and results.
• Data Analysis: Analyze experimental data to draw conclusions and prepare reports using appropriate statistical or analytical methods.
• Quality Control: Implement and maintain quality control procedures to ensure accuracy, reliability, and compliance with regulatory standards.
• Safety Compliance: Follow all laboratory safety protocols when handling hazardous materials, including proper storage, use, and disposal procedures.
• Collaboration: Work closely with scientists, researchers, and laboratory personnel to support ongoing projects, troubleshoot issues, and optimize processes.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments, procedures, and results in compliance with laboratory and regulatory requirements.
• Continuous Learning: Stay current with emerging laboratory techniques, technologies, and industry regulations to continuously improve performance and practices.

Required Competencies and Behaviors:

• Technical Proficiency: Strong understanding of laboratory techniques, instrumentation, and analytical methods, including the ability to operate complex equipment and perform accurate calculations related to chemical processes and reactions.
• Attention to Detail: High level of precision in conducting experiments, recording data, and following safety and procedural requirements to ensure accuracy and prevent errors that could impact results or safety.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve issues that arise during experiments or equipment use, applying critical thinking to troubleshoot problems and improve laboratory processes and outcomes.

Specialized/Technical Knowledge or Required Skills

• Education: Junior or senior pursuing a degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science & Engineering, or a related science/engineering field.
• Communication Skills: Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English clearly. Demonstrates strong written communication skills, producing clear, concise, and professional memos, reports, and instructions.
• Technical Proficiency: Skilled in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Time Management: Able to meet deadlines, follow tasks through to completion, and manage multiple priorities effectively.
• Adaptability: Responds quickly and effectively to changing goals, schedules, project needs, or customer requirements.
• Listening & Interpersonal Skills: Actively listens to understand needs, issues, and problems; demonstrates tact, cooperation, and a strong team‑oriented mindset.
• Problem‑Solving Mindset: Ability to learn and apply Six Sigma concepts and techniques in day‑to‑day activities.
• Independence & Initiative: Capable of working with minimal supervision while maintaining safety, efficiency, and alignment with team goals.

Physical Requirements

• Laboratory Work Environment: This role is performed primarily in a laboratory setting, which may include exposure to chemicals, powders, resins, and other industrial materials. Appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn at all times.
• Manual Dexterity: Frequent use of hands and fingers for precise tasks such as sample preparation, weighing materials, operating instruments, and handling laboratory tools and glassware.
• Standing and Mobility: Ability to stand, walk, and move within the laboratory for extended periods throughout the workday, including between workstations, equipment areas, and storage locations.
• Lifting and Carrying: Occasional lifting, carrying, and moving of laboratory supplies, materials, and equipment, typically up to 25 pounds. Assistance or mechanical aids may be used for heavier items.
• Visual and Auditory Requirements: Adequate vision (with or without correction) to read instruments, monitor experiments, and accurately record data. Ability to hear and understand instructions in a laboratory environment.
• Repetitive Tasks: Ability to perform repetitive motions associated with sample preparation, instrument operation, and documentation while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Safety Compliance: Must be able to consistently follow laboratory safety procedures, including proper handling of hazardous materials, emergency protocols, and adherence to all posted safety guidelines.

Education