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Polymer Internships Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

R&D Intern

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

S. We hire interns in the following positions: Process Engineering, R&D, Strategic Sourcing ... Utilize a variety of analytical and characterization techniques to assess polymer structure ...

S. We hire interns in the following positions: Process Engineering, R&D, Strategic Sourcing ... Utilize a variety of analytical and characterization techniques to assess polymer structure ...

R&D Intern

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Research & Development Our Internship Experience includes: * 12-week paid program beginning the end ... Utilize a variety of analytical and characterization techniques to assess polymer structure ...

MBA Intern

Delano, MN

$51K - $70K/yr

The MBA Internship Program is a dynamic, 10-week paid internship designed to provide first-year MBA ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

MBA Intern

Delano, MN · On-site

$51K - $70K/yr

The MBA Internship Program is a dynamic, 10-week paid internship designed to provide first-year MBA ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

MBA Intern

Delano, MN · On-site

$51K - $70K/yr

The MBA Internship Program is a dynamic, 10-week paid internship designed to provide first-year MBA ... The Republic Services Polymer Center is the nation's first integrated plastics recycling facility.

Sr. Lead Mechanical Engineer

Chaska, MN · On-site

$118K - $143K/yr

... polymer fluid handling products such as valves, tubing, and fittings in Chaska, MN as part of the ... Mentor junior engineers, interns, and co-op roles to foster technical growth and team development ...

Polymer Internships information

What are polymer internships?

Polymer internships are temporary positions for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience working with polymers—large molecules used in materials like plastics, rubbers, and fibers. These internships are typically offered by research institutions, manufacturing companies, or chemical firms. Interns may assist in laboratory research, product development, quality testing, or process optimization. The experience helps students apply classroom knowledge to real-world projects, build professional networks, and enhance their resumes for future careers in polymer science or engineering.

What types of projects can I expect to work on during a polymer internship?

As a polymer intern, you can expect to be involved in hands-on projects such as developing new polymer blends, testing material properties in the laboratory, assisting with process optimization, and analyzing data from experiments. Interns often work closely with experienced engineers and scientists, contributing to both research and product development teams. This experience provides valuable exposure to various stages of polymer production and testing, helping you build practical skills and industry knowledge.

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

To thrive as a Polymer Intern, you typically need a background in chemistry, materials science, or chemical engineering, along with foundational knowledge of polymer properties and synthesis. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, safety protocols, and analytical tools like FTIR, DSC, or GPC is often required. Strong attention to detail, willingness to learn, and effective teamwork and communication skills set outstanding interns apart. These competencies are essential for contributing to research projects, maintaining safety, and efficiently supporting innovation in polymer development.

What is the difference between Polymer Internships vs Polymer Technicians?

AspectPolymer InternshipsPolymer Technicians
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduates with relevant courseworkPost-secondary education or technical certifications in polymer science or engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, manufacturing facilities, or corporate R&D departmentsManufacturing plants, quality control labs, or production lines
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs in chemical, materials, or polymer companiesFull-time roles in polymer manufacturing and processing industries

Polymer Internships are entry-level opportunities for students or recent graduates to gain experience in polymer science, often in research or development settings. Polymer Technicians are more experienced roles involving hands-on work in manufacturing, quality control, or processing. While internships focus on learning and exposure, technicians perform operational tasks essential to production.

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Polymer Internships jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Polymer Internships job openings:

Infographic showing various Polymer Internships job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

R&D Intern

Saint Paul, MN • On-site


H.B. Fuller Company
Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 24 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

37th of 101 rated chemical manufacturers

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by parents


$22 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

As the largest pureplay adhesives company in the world, H.B. Fuller's (NYSE: FUL) innovative, functional coatings, adhesives and sealants enhance the quality, safety and performance of products people use every day. Founded in 1887, with 2025 revenue of $3.5 billion, our mission to Connect What Matters is brought to life by more than 7,100 global team members who collaborate with customers across more than 30 market segments in 150 countries to develop highly specified solutions that enable customers to bring world-changing innovations to their end markets. Learn more at www.hbfuller.com.
What you can expect from H.B. Fuller's Internship Program:
You'll be joining a cohort of talented students from a variety of schools across the U.S. We hire interns in the following positions: Process Engineering, R&D, Strategic Sourcing, Technical Sales, Supply Chain, Product Marketing, Information Technology, and more.
The projects we task our interns to lead are impactful and meaningful to our organization. You'll be supported by your Manager and Mentor to gain in-depth knowledge of the adhesive industry and collaborate with various departments and functions. We also offer an established path for next-level opportunities - making this internship the starting point for a long-term career path.
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
Department: Research & Development
Our Internship Experience includes:
  • 12-week paid program beginning the end of May to mid-August to gain insight and knowledge in your field.
  • Interactive orientation and events with skilled professionals in your field, including managers, directors, and CEO.
  • Multiple networking, volunteer and fun events - both virtual and in-person.
  • Impactful projects that make a difference internally and externally for H.B. Fuller.
  • End of summer final presentation to showcase your career development with support from managers and peers.

Position Overview:
The Polyurethane Adhesive Chemistry Intern will contribute to research and development projects focused on the design, synthesis, and evaluation of advanced polyurethane adhesive materials. This hands-on laboratory role offers the opportunity to apply classroom knowledge to real-world challenges in polymer chemistry and materials science. Working closely with scientists and engineers, the intern will formulate and test new materials, utilize analytical and mechanical testing equipment, and analyze experimental data to identify relationships between material composition and performance. Throughout the internship, the candidate will develop technical laboratory skills, gain exposure to industrial R&D processes, and present project outcomes to members of the broader technical organization.
Primary Responsibilities:
  • Develop a foundational understanding of polyurethane adhesive chemistry, including raw materials, formulation principles, and structure-property relationships.
  • Synthesize and prepare polyurethane polymers and adhesive formulations using laboratory reactors and standard chemical processing equipment.
  • Conduct mechanical and physical property testing on formulated materials to evaluate performance characteristics such as strength, adhesion, and durability.
  • Utilize a variety of analytical and characterization techniques to assess polymer structure, composition, and material behavior.
  • Collect, organize, and analyze experimental data using statistical methods to identify trends, interpret results, and support formulation development.
  • Maintain accurate laboratory records and follow safe laboratory practices while conducting experiments and testing activities.
  • Summarize project findings and deliver a final presentation highlighting experimental results, key learnings, and recommendations.

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, Physics, or a related scientific discipline.
  • Rising junior or senior with coursework in chemistry, materials science, polymers, or related technical subjects.
  • Demonstrated interest in laboratory research, materials characterization, data analysis, and hands-on experimental work

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certifications, and geographic location.
The salary for this role is $22-$25 per hour.
In addition to your salary, H.B. Fuller offers employees a competitive total rewards package including comprehensive benefits, incentive and recognitions programs, health & wellness benefits, 401K contributions, paid time off and paid holidays. Eligibility may vary.
H.B. Fuller is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and proud to have created a collaborative culture where employees around the world are seen, heard, and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, disability, or marital status or status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected classification.
H.B. Fuller does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters, employment agencies, or staffing firms. To conduct business with H.B. Fuller, a written service agreement must be executed by Human Resources prior to submitting any information relating to a potential candidate. Without a signed service agreement, H.B. Fuller shall not be obligated for payment of any fee or compensation.


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