Process Engineer Co-Op / Internship

Verdant Specialty Solutions•University Park, IL

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Process Engineer Co-Op/Intern supports manufacturing and operations teams by assisting with process optimization, data analysis, documentation, and continuous improvement initiatives within a specialty chemicals manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on engineering experience while developing technical, analytical, and professional skills through real-world plant and project exposure.

Requirements

Currently a sophomore or junior pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
Enrollment in an accredited co-op or internship program through an academic institution.
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Strong interest in manufacturing, process engineering, and industrial operations.
Ability to work on-site in a manufacturing environment.
Fundamental understanding of chemical engineering principles, including material and energy balances.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel; familiarity with data analysis tools preferred.
Ability to read and interpret technical drawings, PFDs, and P&IDs (training provided as needed).
Effective written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team-based, fast-paced manufacturing environment.
Willingness to learn, take initiative, and accept feedback.
Strong organizational and time-management skills
Organized, systematic, independent, and self-motivated.
Ability to analyze, troubleshoot and solve problems with innovative approaches to problem solving
Proficiency with engineering spreadsheets/calculations and other simulation/modelling software.

Nice To Haves

Previous summer co-operative / internship experience a plus

Responsibilities

Assist process engineers in analyzing manufacturing processes to improve efficiency, safety, quality, and cost performance.
Collect, analyze, and interpret process data to identify trends, deviations, and improvement opportunities.
Support development and updating of process documentation, including PFDs, P&IDs, SOPs, and work instructions.
Participate in root cause investigations for process upsets, quality deviations, and safety incidents.
Assist with implementation of continuous improvement initiatives, including Lean, Six Sigma, or operational excellence projects.
Support trial planning, execution, and documentation for process changes, raw material evaluations, or equipment modifications.
Collaborate with operations, maintenance, EHS, and quality teams to support day-to-day plant activities.
Adhere to all safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements during plant and laboratory activities.
Support capital or reliability projects as assigned.
Participate in engineering meetings, safety reviews, and plant walk-downs.
Complete special projects or analyses aligned with academic and development goals.
Other duties as assigned