Material Characterization Intern

We are Synthomer! Our products are all around you. We are a leading supplier of high-performance, highly specialized polymers and ingredients that play vital roles in helping our customers make products that bind the world together. We’re proud to employ around 4,200 people, working across North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and Asia from more than 30 manufacturing sites and four innovation centers of excellence.

We are currently seeking an Intern for our Material Characterization group at our Akron, Ohio Technical Center. The Synthomer Material Characterization team is a global network of analytical and polymer chemists who specialize in the characterization of polymers, emulsions, and formulated materials. We consider ourselves the “eyes of the company” and support every aspect of the business – innovation and new product development through production and customer service.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate Synthomer’s Safety First culture by working safely, watching out for the wellbeing of others, and actively participating in the Akron Technology Center safety program
• Work with colleagues within the Material Characterization department to learn new techniques and instrumentation including but not limited to: gas and liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, FT-IR, CHDF, and DSC
• Support method development work for novel analyses with a focus on gas and liquid chromatography as well as other techniques
• Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory instrumentation when required
• Coordinate across the company to obtain samples for testing
• Become familiar with latex chemistries, including SB, SA, VA, acrylic, and specialty polymers as well as primarily water-soluble small molecule additives
• Follow and update SOPs and write reports for internal and external customers
• Participate in regular group meetings and provide progress updates
  
  

Requirements

• Current student entering their Junior or Senior year of college or graduate student
• Pursuing a Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Chemistry, Polymer Science or related field
• Ability to work approximately 20-32 hours per week
• Estimated Duration: 6 to 12 months; 12 months preferred.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  
  

Preferred Requirements

• Detail-oriented and rigorous scientist
• Strong analytical skills (Analytical Chemistry experience is a plus!)
• Proven ability to manage time, prioritize tasks and accomplish goals
• Excellent interpersonal and written communication skills
• Above average competency with computer applications (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, etc.)
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
• Quick learner and self-motivated
• Ability to thrive in a team environment
• An appreciation for diversity with interest in global experiences
  
  

Why Synthomer?

We are ambitious!

We have grown significantly – both organically and inorganically. We are a FTSE 250 listed company, 22% of our revenue comes from newly commercialized products, and we’re recognized in the top-quartile for chemicals manufacturing safety.

We believe in high challenge, high support!

We are keen to let you contribute in real roles from day 1. We expect a lot, but offer a lot, too. This includes onboarding, induction and learning events, networking opportunities, mentoring and personal development planning. So, be up for an inspiring long-term career adventure.

We personalize our approach to development!

At Synthomer, you won't find generic career tracks or development programs but rather a one-size-fits-one approach to employee development. We'll partner with you to ensure you have the right experiences that build your capabilities and accelerate your career growth.