Intern - Chemistry

Title: Intern - Chemistry Location: Aurora, IL, USA Posted Date: 2026-10-01T17:28:00.000-04:00 Employment Type: Seasonal Compensation: USD 20 - 24

Job Description: About ESi Engineering Systems Inc. (ESi) is an engineering and scientific investigation and failure analysis firm. We are frequently retained by law firms, insurance companies, and manufacturers to answer complex technical questions on projects ranging from small, focused investigations to large-scale, high-profile losses. Our work spans a wide range of challenges, including major transportation accidents, equipment and product failures, personal injury claims, and damage to residential, commercial, and industrial structures. The variety, complexity, and real-world impact of our projects create deeply fulfilling and intellectually engaging careers for our consultants. At ESi, you’ll have the opportunity to shape your own path while being supported by a collaborative culture, national expertise, and industry-leading resources. Why ESi ESi’s Thermal practice brings together experts in fire, explosion, chemical, electrical, and fire protection engineering to solve complex problems across industrial, commercial, and energy sectors. The team supports high-profile investigations and proactive safety and risk reduction efforts in a collaborative, hands-on environment. Key Responsibilities - Assist ESi consultants during site and laboratory-based forensic inspections. - Assist ESi consultants in file review and report writing. - Employ various methods of documenting artifacts and evidence, such as photography, videography, note taking, and dimensional measurements. - Assist in the materials laboratory by learning to use various materials characterization equipment and microscopes, and then independently utilizing these tools and reporting findings. - Internships with ESi are expected to be full-time, 40 hours per week, from Monday to Friday (Business hours are from 8am-5pm). - If you are also enrolled in college – we require that you take no more than 2 classes during your employment semester with ESi and are able to work a minimum of 32 hours per week. Qualifications Education / Certifications / Licenses - Pursuing a bachelor’s degree related to chemistry or chemical engineering, materials engineering, materials science, or similar scientific or engineering field. Must have completed at least Freshman year. - Major in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Materials Science, similar Scientific or Engineering Field - 3.30 GPA or higher, preferred - Must have a valid driver's license and reliable transportation. Must be able to travel for trips of three days in length. Experience - Completion of academic courses applicable to investigative methods and laboratory sciences. - Use of chemistry, chemical engineering, and materials science and technology to solve problems. Other Technical & Non-Technical Skills - Ability to prepare technical reports. - Hands-on experience with chemical analysis instrumentation, wet chemistry laboratory skills, microscopy and photography. - Familiarity with analytical chemistry and materials testing methods and data analysis. Physical Demands This role requires frequently sitting or standing for extended periods of time and occasionally lifting and/or moving items weighing up to 50 pounds, with infrequent lifting up to 75 pounds. The work regularly requires bending, twisting, kneeling, crouching, and maintaining balance. This position frequently requires handling and operating specialized tools and equipment and working in a variety of physical positions, including occasionally accessing tight or confined spaces. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. Work Environment Work is performed in both office and field environments, including active construction sites, industrial settings, and damaged or compromised structures. The work environment may include exposure to varying noise levels, weather conditions, uneven terrain, and site-specific hazards. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required depending on site conditions. The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions. To all recruitment agencies: ESi does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of ESi without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of ESi. Please, no phone calls or emails. ESi is an equal opportunity employer committed to attracting and retaining the most qualified individuals based on merit, experience, and skills. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status. In accordance with applicable laws, ESi actively supports the employment of veterans and individuals with disabilities.