Process Engineer Co-Op / Internship
University Park, IL
Internship
Student (College)
Process Engineer Co-Op
Reports To: Engineering Director
Department: Operations
Location: University Park, Illinois; Liberty, Texas; Palestine, Texas; Elmendorf, Texas
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Term: Co-Op rotation, aligned with academic program or Internship
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Revision: 1.0
1.0 Purpose of Role
The Process Engineer Co-Op/Intern supports manufacturing and operations teams by assisting with process optimization, data analysis, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives within a specialty chemicals manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on engineering experience while developing technical, analytical, and professional skills through real-world plant and project exposure.
2.0 Direct Reports
This job description defines the core duties, responsibilities, and qualifications for the role. Management reserves the right to adjust scope and responsibilities as needed to meet evolving business requirements.
Reports To: Engineering Director
Department: Operations
Location: University Park, Illinois; Liberty, Texas; Palestine, Texas; Elmendorf, Texas
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Term: Co-Op rotation, aligned with academic program or Internship
Effective Date: January 1, 2026
Revision: 1.0
1.0 Purpose of Role
The Process Engineer Co-Op/Intern supports manufacturing and operations teams by assisting with process optimization, data analysis, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives within a specialty chemicals manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on engineering experience while developing technical, analytical, and professional skills through real-world plant and project exposure.
2.0 Direct Reports
- None
- Essential Functions
- Assist process engineers in analyzing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, safety, quality, and cost performance.
- Collect, analyze, and interpret process data to identify trends, deviations, and improvement opportunities.
- Support development and updating of process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, SOPs, and work instructions.
- Participate in root cause investigations for process upsets, quality deviations, and safety incidents.
- Assist with implementation of continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean, Six Sigma, or operational excellence projects.
- Support trial planning, execution, and documentation for process changes, raw material evaluations, or equipment modifications.
- Collaborate with operations, maintenance, EHS, and quality teams to support day-to-day plant activities.
- Adhere to all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements during plant and laboratory activities.
- Additional Responsibilities
- Support capital or reliability projects as assigned.
- Participate in engineering meetings, safety reviews, and plant walk-downs.
- Complete special projects or analyses aligned with academic and development goals.
- Other duties as assigned.
- Currently a sophomore or junior pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- Enrollment in an accredited co-op or internship program through an academic institution.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Strong interest in manufacturing, process engineering, and industrial operations.
- Ability to work on-site in a manufacturing environment.
- Previous summer co-operative / internship experience a plus
- Fundamental understanding of chemical engineering principles, including material and energy balances.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with data analysis tools preferred.
- Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, PFDs, and P&IDs (training provided as needed).
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, fast-paced manufacturing environment.
- Willingness to learn, take initiative, and accept feedback.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Organized, systematic, independent, and self-motivated.
- Ability to analyze, troubleshoot and solve problems with innovative approaches to problem solving
- Proficiency with engineering spreadsheets/calculations and other simulation/modelling software.
- Combination of office and manufacturing plant environments.
- Frequent computer use and data analysis activities.
- Regular exposure to manufacturing operations; must be able to wear required PPE (hard hat, safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, etc.).
- Ability to walk manufacturing areas, climb stairs and ladders, and stand for extended periods.
- Some exposure to noise, heat, and industrial chemicals consistent with a chemical manufacturing facility
This job description defines the core duties, responsibilities, and qualifications for the role. Management reserves the right to adjust scope and responsibilities as needed to meet evolving business requirements.
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