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Chemical Engineering Intern Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Project Engineer Intern

Des Moines, IA

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

The Project Engineer Intern assists the project team in the completion of designated projects while ... You must be pursuing a bachelor's degree in construction engineering/management or closely related ...

Project Engineer Intern

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

The Project Engineer Intern assists the project team in the completion of designated projects while ... You must be pursuing a bachelor's degree in construction engineering/management or closely related ...

Summer Intern - Engineering

Palo, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

Job Overview As an Engineering Intern, you'll gain hands-on experience supporting engineering projects, technical analysis, operations, and problem-solving. Depending on your team and assignment, you ...

Project Engineer Intern

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$16.25 - $21.25/hr

As a Project Engineer Intern, you will assist the project team in the completion of designated ... You must be pursuing a bachelor's degree in construction engineering/management or closely related ...

Manufacturing Engineer Intern

Pella, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Intern Division: Precision Pulley & Idler (PPI) Location : Pella, IA ... Manufacturing Engineering Manager PURPOSE OF POSITION Provide college-level students an opportunity ...

Manufacturing Engineer Intern

Pella, IA · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Manufacturing Engineer Intern Division: Precision Pulley & Idler (PPI) Location : Pella, IA ... Manufacturing Engineering Manager PURPOSE OF POSITION Provide college-level students an opportunity ...

Showing results 41-60

Chemical Engineering Intern information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do chemical engineering intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical engineering intern in Iowa is $18.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $19.66 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects and tasks can a chemical engineering intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Chemical Engineering Intern, you can typically expect to assist with process optimization, laboratory experiments, data analysis, and equipment troubleshooting under the guidance of experienced engineers. You may also participate in team meetings, contribute to safety and quality improvement initiatives, and help prepare technical reports. Interns often collaborate with cross-functional teams, including R&D, production, and quality assurance, which provides a well-rounded experience and valuable networking opportunities. The variety and scope of your projects will depend on the specific industry and company, but hands-on involvement and mentorship are common across most internships.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical engineering intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Engineering Intern, you need a solid understanding of chemical engineering principles, laboratory techniques, and relevant coursework in chemistry and process engineering. Familiarity with simulation software such as Aspen Plus or MATLAB, as well as safety protocols and laboratory equipment, is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, teamwork, and effective communication skills help interns contribute meaningfully to projects and collaborate with senior engineers. These skills and qualities are crucial for translating classroom knowledge into practical solutions and ensuring safety and efficiency in real-world engineering environments.

What is the difference between Chemical Engineering Intern vs Chemical Process Engineer?

AspectChemical Engineering InternChemical Process Engineer
CredentialsTypically pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's degree in chemical engineeringBachelor's degree in chemical engineering; often requires professional licensure for senior roles
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, labs, or plant visits; supervised learningFull-time work in manufacturing plants, process design, and optimization
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by chemical companies, manufacturing firms, research labsEstablished companies, involved in process development, production, and safety

The main difference is that a Chemical Engineering Intern is a temporary, learning-focused position often held by students or recent graduates, while a Chemical Process Engineer is a full-time professional responsible for designing, optimizing, and managing chemical processes in industrial settings.

Can I do internships as a chemical engineering intern student?

Yes, chemical engineering intern students can participate in internships to gain practical experience in process design, safety protocols, and laboratory work. Internships typically require enrollment in a related degree program and may involve working with industry-standard tools and safety equipment during a set schedule. These opportunities help develop skills relevant to future engineering roles.

How much do chemical engineering interns make?

Chemical engineering interns typically earn between $15 and $25 per hour, depending on the company, location, and level of education. Internships often last for a few months during summer or semester breaks and may include additional benefits such as mentorship and hands-on experience.

What GPA do I need for a chemical engineering internship?

Most chemical engineering internships typically require a GPA of 3.0 or higher to demonstrate academic competence. Some competitive programs may prefer a GPA of 3.2 or above, especially for highly selective companies or roles requiring strong technical skills and coursework in chemistry, thermodynamics, or process design.

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Engineering jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Chemical Engineering jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Engineering Intern jobs in Iowa?

For Chemical Engineering Intern jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Chemical Engineering Intern jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Chemical Engineering Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Engineering Intern job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,734 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Plant Process Engineer Intern - Summer 2027

Pella Corporation

Sioux Center, IA

$27.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Pella rating

7.6

Company rating: 7.6 out of 10

Based on 133 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

227th of 546 rated manufacturers


Job description

Plant Process Engineering Intern - Summer 2027
Program Duration: End of May - Early August
Location: Sioux Center, IA (on-site)

Pella Corporation is seeking motivated engineering students for our Plant Process Engineering Internship at our manufacturing facility in Sioux Center, IA.

This internship provides hands-on experience working on real manufacturing challenges and improvement opportunities. Interns collaborate with engineers, operations leaders, and production teams to improve processes, reduce waste, increase efficiency, and support manufacturing initiatives.

If you're interested in applying engineering principles in a manufacturing environment, leading meaningful projects, and gaining experience similar to that of an entry-level engineer, we'd love to connect with you.

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline. Preferred majors are listed above.
  • Strong academic standing
  • Demonstrated leadership, teamwork, or involvement through campus organizations, work experience, athletics, volunteer activities, or other experiences
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook
  • Experience with CAD software such as Solid Edge, AutoCAD, or similar platforms preferred
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences
  • Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical skills
  • Experience leading projects, initiatives, or team efforts from planning through execution preferred
  • Ability to succeed in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Compensation: The starting pay rate for this position is $27.90 per hour. Compensation for this role is established through Pella Corporation's internship program. Eligible participants may receive transition assistance in accordance with company policies and program guidelines.

Pella Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Smoke Free Environment. 

CONDITION OF EMPLOYMENT:

Pella Corporation is committed to workforce diversity. Pella is a Tobacco-Free Work Environment.  Post-offer background check and drug screen required.  Pella participates in E- Verify.  Pella will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each new employee's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:

Pella Corporation provides a working environment free of discrimination and harassment.  Pella Corporation treats all persons equally, regardless of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age or disability, as each is protected under federal law. Several states in which Pella operates have laws protecting classifications of Team Members not necessarily protected under federal law. Therefore, Pella also treats all persons equally, regardless of political affiliation and belief, pregnancy, national origin, age, creed, marital status, military status, sexual orientation, mental disorder, veteran status, ancestry or handicap as each category is protected under a municipal ordinance or state law. 

As a Plant Process Engineering Intern, you will support manufacturing operations through project work focused on process improvement, problem solving, quality enhancement, and operational efficiency. Interns are given ownership of meaningful projects and work alongside experienced engineers and mentors to develop technical, professional, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities are similar to what we expect of entry-level engineers who join Pella after graduation.

As a Plant Process Engineering Intern, you may:

  • Modify and improve manufacturing processes to improve quality, increase reliability, reduce costs, and eliminate waste
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives using problem-solving and engineering methodologies
  • Develop or enhance manufacturing processes, equipment, and tooling
  • Specify, design, and procure equipment required to support manufacturing and new product initiatives
  • Implement new processes from concept through production
  • Analyze manufacturing data and recommend solutions that improve operational performance
  • Partner with engineering, operations, maintenance, quality, and other cross-functional teams to support business objectives

Preferred Degree Areas

  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Agricultural Engineering
  • Industrial Technology
  • Other related engineering disciplines

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About Pella

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pella Corporation, headquartered in Pella, IA, is an innovative leader in creating a better view for homes and businesses by designing, testing, manufacturing, and installing quality windows and doors for new construction, remodeling, and replacement applications. Founded in 1925, Pella is a family-owned and professionally managed privately held company, known for its history of innovation, making outstanding products, providing quality service, and delivering on customer satisfaction. The company is committed to incorporating new technologies, increasing productivity, and practicing environmental stewardship.

Industry

Building materials and garden equipment dealers

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pella, IA, US

Year founded

1925