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Materials Engineer Intern Jobs in Kankakee, IL (NOW HIRING)

Materials Engineer Intern information

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$10

$18

$28

How much do materials engineer intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for materials engineer intern in Kankakee, IL is $18.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a materials engineer intern do?

A Materials Engineer Intern supports professional engineers in researching, developing, and testing materials used to create a wide range of products. Typical tasks include assisting with laboratory experiments, analyzing material properties, preparing reports, and helping to improve material performance or processes. Interns often work under supervision, gaining hands-on experience with materials such as metals, polymers, ceramics, and composites. This internship helps students or recent graduates apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering problems and prepares them for a full-time role in materials engineering.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a materials engineer intern?

To thrive as a Materials Engineer Intern, you need a solid understanding of materials science fundamentals, laboratory techniques, and coursework in engineering or related fields. Familiarity with analytical tools like scanning electron microscopes (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and software such as MATLAB or AutoCAD is commonly expected. Curiosity, attention to detail, and strong teamwork and communication skills help interns contribute effectively to projects and collaborate with mentors. These capabilities are crucial for accurate experimentation, data analysis, and successful integration into engineering teams.

What is the difference between Materials Engineer Intern vs Materials Engineer?

AspectMaterials Engineer InternMaterials Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a bachelor's degree in materials science or engineering; internship experience preferredBachelor's degree in materials science, engineering, or related field; professional licensure optional
Work EnvironmentSupportive, learning-focused environment within manufacturing, research labs, or R&D departmentsFull-time professional role in designing, testing, and analyzing materials in industrial settings
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by manufacturing firms, aerospace, automotive, and research institutionsFull-time positions in similar industries, often with more responsibility and project leadership

Materials Engineer Interns are students gaining practical experience, while Materials Engineers are full-time professionals responsible for developing and testing materials. Interns focus on learning and supporting projects, whereas Engineers lead design and analysis tasks in their field.

What job categories do people searching Materials Engineer Intern jobs in Kankakee, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Materials Engineer Intern jobs in Kankakee, IL are:

What cities near Kankakee, IL are hiring for Materials Engineer Intern jobs?

Cities near Kankakee, IL with the most Materials Engineer Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Materials Engineer Intern job openings in Kankakee, IL as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,622 per year, or $18.6 per hour.

2027 Chemical Engineer Intern/Co-op

LyondellBasell

Morris, IL • On-site

Internship

Posted 12 days ago


LyondellBasell rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 42 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 101 rated chemical manufacturers


Job description

Chemical Engineer Co-op/Intern 

Are you an ambitious engineering student eager to gain hands-on experience in a global industry leader? Do you thrive in a creative team environment where your ideas can drive real-world impact? If so, LyondellBasell has the perfect opportunity for you! 

Why You'll Love This Role: 

As a Chemical Engineer Co-op/Intern, you'll have the chance to dive deep into the engineering world, working on projects that enhance plant safety, environmental performance, and profitability. Whether you're optimizing day-to-day operations or developing groundbreaking innovations, your contributions will be instrumental in shaping our success. 

What You Can Expect: 

We offer a range of exciting opportunities across various engineering disciplines during the spring summer and fall terms, allowing you to explore and develop your skills: 

Production Engineer: 

  • Focus on the day-to-day operation and optimization of an existing unit. 

  • Identify and implement improvements to plant safety, environmental, and profitability performance. 

Process Engineer: 

  • Evaluate and develop major projects and debottlenecks. 

  • Serve as a technical resource for the corporation. 

  • Develop and improve systems to maintain excellent process safety and environmental performance. 

Control System Engineer: 

  • Develop, optimize, and troubleshoot advanced control schemes. 

  • Create and refine process models used in predictive control systems. 

Research and Development Engineer: 

  • Provide technical support to our polyolefin customers through visits and internal or external fabrication trials. 

  • Drive innovation by developing new materials and processes. 

What We Offer: 

  • Real-world experience in a leading global company. 

  • Mentorship from experienced professionals. 

  • Opportunities to contribute to significant projects. 

  • A collaborative and innovative work environment. 

Qualifications We're Looking For: 

  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, or an equivalent degree from an accredited university. 

  • Overall GPA of 3.0 or greater. 

  • Must be at least 18 years of age. 

  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship for employment visa status. 

If you're ready to apply your skills and learn from industry leaders, we want to hear from you. Apply today and take the first step in your engineering career with LyondellBasell! 

About LyondellBasell: 

LyondellBasell is a leader in the global chemical industry, creating solutions for everyday sustainable living. Through advanced technology and focused investments, we are enabling a circular and low-carbon economy. As one of the world's largest producers of polymers and a leader in polyolefin technologies, we develop, manufacture, and market high-quality and innovative products for applications ranging from sustainable transportation and food safety to clean water and quality healthcare. 

Equal Opportunity Employer: 

LyondellBasell is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, and other protected characteristics. 

Ready to embark on an exciting journey with us? Apply now and help shape the future of sustainable living! 

For more information, visit www.lyondellbasell.com or follow us on LinkedIn @LyondellBasell. 


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