MPI Polymer Engineering Intern

Special Instructions to Applicants Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for visa sponsorship. The University will not sponsor applicants for work visas (e.g., H-1B). Job Summary The Mississippi Polymer Institute is seeking a hands-on, detail-oriented Polymer Engineering Intern for a 10-12 week summer program. In this role, you will bridge the gap between material science and mechanical design by developing 3D CAD models, 3D printing and assisting with polymer extrusion and injection molding processes. This comprehensive, customizable summer internship description blends CAD modeling with polymer processing. It is tailored to attract engineering students who can help design plastic components, optimize tooling, and support/conduct production runs. Primary Duties and Responsibilities Polymer Processing Support: Assist the engineering team with monitoring, setting up, and optimizing polymer extrusion and injection molding runs. Process Troubleshooting: Help collect and analyze production data (e.g., cycle times, yield, scrap rates) to troubleshoot part defects and improve process stability. CAD Design Modeling: Create and modify 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings of plastic components, tooling, and fixtures using software like SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor. 3D Printing: Print CAD files on 3D printers for clients. Material Testing: Prepare, compound, and test polymer samples to evaluate material performance and mechanical properties. Documentation: Update process guides, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and bill of materials (BOMs) as production changes occur.