Engineering Intern, Production Process Improvement

Pulaski, VA, US, 24301

Onsite

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.

With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

As a James Hardie intern, you will gain hands-on experience in your chosen field while contributing to meaningful projects that drive business results. Our 12-week paid internship program is designed to provide real-world industry exposure, strengthen your professional and technical skills, and help prepare you for a successful career. Throughout the program, you will collaborate with experienced professionals, build valuable relationships across the organization, and take on work that makes a measurable impact. You will also have access to mentoring opportunities and professional development resources to support your growth and career aspirations.

 

Internship Objective

Gain hands-on manufacturing experience while updating Sheets Production documentation to reflect current standards and practices. The intern will build foundational knowledge of James Hardie equipment and processes, learn to navigate and interpret standard operating procedures (SOPs), and support the review and approval of accurate, user-friendly work instructions.

 

By the end of the internship, the intern will:

  • Demonstrate the ability to navigate and understand Sheets Production SOPs and related process documentation.
  • Use print reviews, Gemba observations, and redline procedures to update documents and route revisions for leadership approval.
  • Update 50% of department documentation and develop a training binder for employees who are new to their positions.

What You’ll Do:

Manufacturing Process Learning

  • Develop basic knowledge of Sheets Production processes and James Hardie equipment.
  • Learn to navigate, interpret, and apply standard operating procedures and related documentation.
  • Engage with employees on the production floor to understand current standards and practices.

 

Documentation and Training Support

  • Review existing department documentation for accuracy, clarity, and alignment with current practices.
  • Print documents, conduct Gemba reviews, and capture redline updates based on observed work practices.
  • Prepare revised procedures and supporting materials for leadership review and approval.

 

 Documentation Progress Tracking

  • Develop and organize a practical training binder for employees who are new to their positions.
  • Collaborate effectively with operators, supervisors, and other stakeholders to validate documentation.
  • Demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and ownership while completing assigned work.

What You’ll Bring:

  • Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising senior or rising junior).
  • Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Available to work full-time for 12 weeks during summer 2027.
  • Reliable transportation to and from the work location.
  • Authorization to work in the United States.

 

Preferred Skills

  • Pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations, Business, Technical Communication, or a related field.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively with employees at different levels of the organization.
  • Self-starter who can adapt to changing priorities and a flexible manufacturing work schedule.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office; experience with Dozuki or SharePoint is a plus.

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $20 to $25 per hour. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and may change over time.

 

  • Full-time work experience and competitive pay
  • Meaningful projects with business impact
  • Mentorship and guidance
  • Feedback and evaluation
  • Exposure to James Hardie culture
  • Networking opportunities and skill development

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.


Nearest Major Market: Blacksburg
Nearest Secondary Market: Virginia

Job Segment: Business Process, R&D Engineer, Process Engineer, Entry Level Engineer, Summer Internship, Management, Engineering, Entry Level