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Emerson

Chemistry/Polymer Engineering Co-op

1d

Emerson

Sidney, US · Full-time · $45,000 – $55,000

About this role

Expand your technical and professional skills in a real-world setting. Copeland co-ops receive meaningful work, support, and mentorship from experienced managers and key business leaders. Explore opportunities by rotating through multiple departments associated with your major.

Work in the Materials Engineering Department evaluating chemical and materials for HVACR compressor construction. Gain exposure to analytical and physical testing equipment and methods for characterization. Learn critical material properties and their importance in the industry.

As Chemistry Co-op, perform benchtop analytical and wet chemistry tests on oils, metalworking fluids, contaminants, and unknowns. Assist with data collection, prepare customer reports, and ready samples for follow-up testing. Support diverse global projects and samples.

As Polymer Engineering Co-op, conduct accelerated aging of plastics and elastomers assessing time and temperature effects on properties. Perform engineering analysis, prepare training materials, summarize data, and present results. Handle physical and mechanical property testing including mass, hardness, and elongation.

Co-ops form a key talent pipeline for full-time roles after graduation at multiple locations. Benefit from housing stipends, social events, flexible dress code, and fitness center access. Receive guidance in a supportive laboratory environment.

Requirements

  • Undergraduate student pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Polymer Science and Engineering or related field
  • Sophomore or higher class status
  • Ability to perform benchtop analytical and wet chemistry tests
  • Familiarity with chemical and materials characterization methods
  • Understanding of physical and mechanical properties testing
  • Capability to handle laboratory samples and contaminants safely

Responsibilities

  • Perform basic laboratory experiments
  • Carefully handle trace contaminants for analysis of customer issues
  • Handle incoming sample logging and preparation for analysis
  • Prepare customer data reports
  • Conduct accelerated aging of plastics and elastomers to assess effects of time and temperature
  • Measure physical properties including mass, volume swell, dimensional change, and hardness
  • Measure mechanical properties including stress at break, strain at break, modulus, and elongation
  • Perform pre-measurements, assemble pressure vessels for aging, post-measurements, data analysis, and observations

Benefits

  • Paid holidays
  • Housing stipends for eligible students
  • List of nearby housing options for relocation
  • Event opportunities through social and professional development co-op committees
  • Flexible dress code policy
  • Access to newly renovated fitness center, workout classes, and wellness program