Materials Lab Intern Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Position Overview
Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics is seeking a Fabrication Technician Intern in Willowbrook, Illinois to support the hands-on fabrication, modification, and repair of custom prosthetic and orthotic devices in a healthcare manufacturing and clinical fabrication environment. This paid internship is ideal for individuals interested in prosthetics, orthotics, medical device fabrication, manufacturing, skilled trades, engineering, machining, construction, automotive repair, composites, thermoplastics, plaster mold modification, laminations, and hands-on technical work.
The Fabrication Technician Intern will work closely with experienced fabrication technicians, clinicians, and lab team members to assist in producing high-quality prosthetic and orthotic devices that directly support patient mobility, comfort, and independence. This role provides practical exposure to fabrication tools, machinery, materials, safety procedures, quality control standards, and technical processes used in the prosthetic and orthotic industry.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys building, shaping, problem-solving, and learning a specialized trade in a healthcare setting where the work has a direct impact on patient care outcomes. Candidates who demonstrate strong work ethic, reliability, technical aptitude, and alignment with company needs may be considered for future long-term employment opportunities.
Hands-On Training Opportunities
The Fabrication Technician Intern will receive supervised training and exposure in areas such as:

• Fabrication techniques used in prosthetic and orthotic device production
• Direct training from experienced fabrication technicians and clinicians
• Safe use of fabrication tools, machinery, and specialized lab equipment
• Working with plaster molds, positive models, thermoplastics, foam, composites, laminations, metals, and prosthetic componentry
• Quality control, finishing techniques, device repair, and modification processes
• Technical documentation, work orders, measurements, and fabrication instructions
• Healthcare manufacturing standards, safety procedures, and lab organization

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Assist with the fabrication, modification, and repair of prosthetic and orthotic devices under supervision
• Support preparation, modification, and shaping of plaster molds and positive models
• Learn to work with thermoplastics, laminations, foam, composites, metals, and prosthetic and orthotic components
• Assist with operating fabrication machinery, hand tools, and specialized lab equipment safely and effectively
• Read and follow work orders, measurements, fabrication instructions, and technical documentation
• Help inspect completed devices for quality, durability, finish, and functional standards
• Assist with adjustments, repairs, finishing work, and device modifications as needed
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe lab environment
• Collaborate with clinicians, fabrication technicians, and lab staff to support production timelines
• Follow all safety procedures, infection control standards, quality expectations, and company policies

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required
• Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn
• Interest in fabrication, manufacturing, healthcare, engineering, skilled trades, or hands-on technical work
• Good attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to follow directions, ask questions, and work safely in a lab environment
• Strong communication and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Preferred Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in or recently completed a technical, trade, manufacturing, engineering, construction, automotive, machining, composites, or related educational program
• Prior experience working with tools, machinery, fabrication materials, hand tools, or technical equipment
• Coursework or hands-on experience in manufacturing, machining, construction, automotive, composites, woodworking, dental lab work, medical device production, or related fields
• Interest in pursuing long-term employment or career development in prosthetics, orthotics, healthcare manufacturing, or clinical fabrication

Compensation & Schedule
Base Pay: $20.00 per hour
Schedule:
Monday - Friday, 1st Shift
7:30 AM - 3:30 PM
This position is non-exempt and eligible for overtime in accordance with applicable wage and hour laws.
Long-Term Opportunity
This internship may lead to future full-time employment opportunities for candidates who demonstrate strong work ethic, reliability, technical aptitude, attention to detail, and alignment with company culture and operational needs.
About Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics
At Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics, we help people regain mobility, confidence, and independence. As a leading provider of orthotic and prosthetic services across the Midwest, we combine technical expertise, advanced fabrication methods, and compassionate, patient-centered care. Our teams are driven by purpose and supported by a culture that values collaboration, craftsmanship, growth, and service excellence.
This internship is a strong opportunity for someone who wants to gain hands-on experience in a meaningful healthcare environment while learning practical fabrication skills that support patient mobility and quality of life.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
Comprehensive Prosthetics & Orthotics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
All applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.