Work Location: Crossfield (Calgary), Alberta
Immediate hiring
Carlisle Companies is seeking a Research Intern — Polymerization and Lab Reactor to join our Research & Development team. For over 100 years, Carlisle has been building products that protect what matters, and this internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to real R&D; projects that impact the built setting.
The Research Intern will support the commissioning, operation, and development of a laboratory-scale polymerization reactor. Working under the supervision of the Manager, R&D; Lab, the intern will gain hands-on experience across the full experimental lifecycle — from raw-material preparation and reactor operation to post-processing, sample characterization, data analysis, and documentation.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform lab polymerization tasks including material weighing, measuring, and addition of raw materials and chemical ingredients in laboratory-scale polymerization runs.
- Operate lab-scale polymer post-processing equipment including spin driers, sieve shakers, and coating mixers.
- Assist with equipment teardown, cleaning, and reassembly after processing runs.
- Accurately record data, processing parameters, and observations during and after laboratory runs.
- Follow safety protocols and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for equipment operation and material handling.
- Conduct literature and patent research to support product development and formulation initiatives.
- Develop understanding of current polymerization processes, formulations, and final product parameters.
- Assist in characterization of material properties such as particle size analysis, molecular weight distribution (MWD), and conversion rate.
- Support physical and chemical testing of raw materials, intermediate products, and final products.
- Assist with material and sample pickup and staging as needed; contribute to team projects and additional assigned tasks.
Working Conditions:
This role operates primarily in a research/QC laboratory setting. Flexible work hours are required, including shift work during full polymerization runs (approximately 12 hours) and regular hours during cleanup and characterization days. No travel is required.
Requirements
Education
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a bachelor's, master's, or PhD degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, or a related field.
- Experience performing chemical reactions in a lab setting.
- Experience conducting research in Chemistry, Polymer Science, Materials Science, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
Required Skills & Abilities
- Strong foundational understanding of chemistry, chemical engineering, polymer science, materials science, or related scientific principles.
- Ability to perform laboratory chemical reactions under trained supervision and, after demonstrated competency, carry out defined procedures independently.
- Ability to perform literature research and apply findings to real-world applications.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Strong time management skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
- Willingness to learn new equipment, processes, and technologies.
- Basic computer proficiency (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Word).
Experience
- No prior professional experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior professional or academic laboratory experience in a research setting.
- Exposure to polymer processing, compounding, or manufacturing environments.
- Interest in materials science, plastics technology, and product development.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to lift and carry materials up to 50 lbs occasionally.
- Ability to stand, walk, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods.
- Adequate vision, hearing, dexterity, and hand-eye coordination required for laboratory work.
- Ability to operate laboratory machinery and power tools as trained.
This is not a remote position.
📌 Research Intern (Canada)
🏢 Gofer
📍 Canada