Innovation Intern

About the role#

ProAmpac is seeking an Innovation Intern for the Packaging Science Lab in Hanover Park, Illinois. This full-time, paid internship offers hands-on experience in R&D within an active manufacturing environment. You will work closely with the Lead Innovation Engineer, taking responsibility for maintaining lab operations, managing daily testing, and ensuring project continuity, particularly during the lead engineer's travel for trials and customer consultations.

What you'll do#

• Maintain lab operations by overseeing active testing and managing daily lab work.
• Conduct hands-on experiments to develop and evaluate sustainable, active, and intelligent packaging solutions.
• Document experimental procedures, results, and observations with high accuracy.
• Collaborate with engineering, production, and other internal teams to brainstorm solutions for technical manufacturing challenges.
• Assist in the preparation of prototypes and present project updates and technical findings to internal stakeholders.

What you'll need#

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Packaging Science, Materials Science, Chemistry, Engineering, Food Science, or a related technical field.
• Strong troubleshooting abilities and a natural curiosity for diagnosing material and experimental behavior.
• Ability to manage multiple testing projects simultaneously while adhering to safety procedures and company policies.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills to effectively communicate technical data.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.

Location & details#

• Location: Hanover Park, Illinois.
• Term: Summer 2026.
• Modality: On-site.
• Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week).
• Physical requirements: The role involves a mix of office and lab work, including standing, walking, handling equipment, and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds. Work requires adherence to safety protocols when on the production floor.