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Polymer Engineering Intern Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Polymer Engineering Intern information

What does a polymer engineering intern do?

A Polymer Engineering Intern assists in the research, development, and testing of polymer materials and products. They typically work under the supervision of experienced engineers to support laboratory experiments, analyze data, and help improve polymer processing techniques. Interns may also participate in quality control, documentation, and the preparation of technical reports. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in areas such as material selection, manufacturing processes, and product design within industries like plastics, automotive, or biomedical engineering.

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

As a Polymer Engineering Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of hands-on and analytical projects, such as assisting with polymer material selection, supporting laboratory testing, and analyzing data related to mechanical and chemical properties. Interns often collaborate with engineers and scientists on process optimization, prototype development, and quality control tasks. This role offers exposure to both research and manufacturing environments, providing valuable experience in teamwork and technical problem-solving. You'll also have the opportunity to present findings and contribute to ongoing product development initiatives.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Engineering Intern, you typically need a foundational knowledge of polymer science, materials engineering, and laboratory techniques, often gained through coursework in a related engineering degree program. Familiarity with analytical tools like FTIR, DSC, and rheometers, as well as proficiency in software such as MATLAB or SolidWorks, is highly valued. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help interns excel in collaborative research environments. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting product development, conducting experiments accurately, and contributing to innovative solutions in polymer engineering projects.

What is the difference between Polymer Engineering Intern vs Materials Science Intern?

AspectPolymer Engineering InternMaterials Science Intern
Required CredentialsEnrolled in or recent graduate of polymer engineering, chemical engineering, or related fieldsEnrolled in or recent graduate of materials science, chemistry, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, manufacturing plants, R&D centers focused on polymersLaboratories, research facilities, manufacturing sites across various materials
Employer & Industry UsageCompanies producing plastics, polymers, and composite materialsIndustries including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and materials research

Polymer Engineering Interns focus specifically on polymer materials, their processing, and applications, often working within plastics and polymer manufacturing companies. Materials Science Interns have a broader scope, covering various materials including metals, ceramics, and polymers. Both roles involve laboratory work, research, and development, but Polymer Engineering Interns specialize in polymer-specific projects, making their roles more targeted within the plastics industry.

Infographic showing various Polymer Engineering Intern job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution.

Manufacturing Engineering Intern - US - Summer 2027

Sterling, VA โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

Job Description SummaryAre you ready to see your future take flight? At GE Aerospace, we believe the world works better when it flies. We are a world-leading provider of jet engines, components, and integrated systems for commercial and military aircraft. We have a relentless dedication to the future of safe and more sustainable flight and believe in our talented people to make it happen.Job Description

Job Summary

Help invent the future of flight, lift people up, and bring them home safely as a GE Aerospace intern! The Manufacturing Engineering internship offers a distinct role based on your major and field of interest:

Manufacturing Engineering Internship: In this role you will build a strong technical foundation in manufacturing and assembly processes. This may include key manufacturing, new product integration, new technology integration, continuous improvement, and cost out. This internship is a great first step for those interested in our MEDP or OMLP program after graduation.

Essential Responsibilities

Our Manufacturing and Supply Chain organizations combine passionate people, cutting-edge technology, and a culture of continuous improvement to provide the highest quality products to our customers. Members of our team are part of a fast-paced and dynamic environment. They typically have the benefit of getting hands-on experience with our products. In either internship experience, you'll be expected to:

  • Learn and understand state-of-the-art methods of manufacturing,
  • Support manufacturing and repair processes for component hardware and/or overall engine assembly,
  • Maintain high-quality standards via risk assessment, root cause analysis, corrective action, and the application of statistical controls
  • Ensure safe work conditions via Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) initiatives
  • Learn and apply Lean and Six Sigma principles to drive productivity, on-time delivery, process capability, and stable operations in our increasingly complex and demanding environment
  • Supporting delivery efforts for sourced components by working with our shops and suppliers while building project management skills, negotiation skills, and business acumen

Qualifications/Requirements:

  • Minimum 3.0 cumulative G.P.A. on a 4.0 scale
  • Attending a full-time registered and nationally accredited bachelor or graduate program (accepted majors are listed below)
  • Willingness and ability to work in any of the 35+ GE Aerospace U.S. locations
  • Reliable transportation, as many of our sites do not have public transportation available

Degrees accepted:

  • Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering
  • Ceramic Engineering
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Civil Engineering
  • Computer Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Electrical Engineering / Electrical & Computer Engineering
  • Engineering Technology (various)
  • Fiber/Polymer Science
  • Industrial Engineering
  • Manufacturing Engineering
  • Materials Science/Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Systems Engineering
  • Welding Engineering

Or any relevant or similar major to the ones above

Eligibility Requirements:

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background investigation and drug screen. Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We will not sponsor individuals for employment visas, now or in the future, for this job opening.

Desired characteristics:

  • Humble: respectful, receptive, agile, eager to learn
  • Transparent: shares critical information, speaks with honesty, contributes constructively
  • Focused: quick learner, strategically prioritizes work, committed, and takes initiative
  • Leadership ability: strong communicator, decision-maker, collaborative teamwork
  • Problem solver: analytical-minded, challenges existing processes, critical thinker
  • Comfortable working in a fast-paced shop floor environment around various machine tools and equipment
  • Preference will be given to those with prior internship, co-op or military experience in manufacturing/supply chain or engineering
  • Demonstrated commitment to community and/or university involvement

Benefits:

Pay rates for this position begin at $20/hour and increase for each undergraduate year completed. Relocation support and housing assistance is available for those who relocate to a new city.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

GE offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE is anEqual Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

This role requires access to U.S. export-controlled information. Therefore, employment will be contingent upon the ability to prove that you meet the status of a U.S. Person as one of the following: U.S. lawful permanent resident, U.S. Citizen, have been granted asylee or refugee status (i.e., a protected individual under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).

Additional Information

GE Aerospace offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. GE Aerospace is anEqual Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

GE Aerospace will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable). Employees may also be subject to random and reasonable-suspicion drug and alcohol testing.


Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes