Research, Development and Engineering
Co-op/Intern Program

A Research, Development and Engineering Co-op or Internship at S.C. Johnson will not only provide you with an opportunity to learn about consumer products, but it will also provide you the opportunity to work with other functions within and outside of RD&E. You will learn how each function contributes to the development of a product, from innovation to ideation and finally to marketing. Click on the following link for a list of frequently asked questions.

RD&E Co-op or Intern

During on-campus recruiting, we recruit interns from the following disciplines to work in Research, Development and engineering at S.C. Johnson:

• Product Research
  • Chemistry Majors
  • Chemical Engineering Majors
• Process Development
  • Chemical Engineering Majors
  • Mechanical Engineering Majors (Bay City)
• Package Development
  • Packaging Engineering Majors

Product Research:

For Chemistry or Chemical Engineering Students
Product Research Co-op and Intern students will work as part of a team with other highly qualified personnel from Process Development, Package Development, Manufacturing and Marketing to develop innovative technology and launch new products. Project assignments might contribute to the following areas:

• Development of innovative formulations and new product ideas.
• Development of base technical capabilities that enable new products.
• Provide creative troubleshooting assistance to US and international Manufacturing

Process Development:

For Chemical Engineering Students
The engineering student is given a project in the Process Development Department. You will work with a team of highly qualified personnel from Package Development, Manufacturing, and Marketing.
Project assignments might contribute to the following areas:

• Develop innovative processes and scale-up from bench to pilot plant to production.
• Coordinate pilot plant operations including design and selection of pilot plant equipment for new products.
• Design experiments for process optimization.
• Provide creative troubleshooting assistance to manufacturing.

Manufacturing

For Mechanical Engineering Students
The engineering student is a member of the Home Storage RD&E team in support of process development initiatives for the United States and emerging overseas markets. Under the direction of a senior engineer, the intern/co-op will actively participate in the design, development and implementation of highly specialized machinery and converting process equipment for the unique needs of the bags, wraps and containers. The student will work both independently and as a part of a multifunctional team with qualified personnel from Marketing, Manufacturing, and other members of the R&D organization. Example of initial assignment include:

• Design and implement specialized equipment to automate a manual production operation.
• Design/select fabrication methods for prototype products to be tested with consumers
• Design equipment to prepare prototype of a new product design.

Packaging:

For Package Engineering Students
Assignments consist of entire projects and major elements that can be completed during the assignment. The main focus of the project will be on evaluating packaging components such as bottles, closures, triggers, labels, cans and corrugates. Project assignments might contribute to the following areas:

• Assist in the qualification process of blow-molded packaging components
• Evaluate packaging materials for existing products and new products.
• Plan and conduct tests that compare packaging materials.
• Work with suppliers to source packaging components.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I earn?

• Starting salaries are very competitive and are based upon the year in school you enter the program, the number of scheduled work periods, and the average starting salary currently offered to graduates in similar majors. (Students' salaries are subject to Federal, FICA and state taxes.)

What will I receive in the form of reimbursements?

• You will be reimbursed for expenses incurred for employment interviews.
• Travel expenses for your initial trip to Racine or Bay City and your return trip to your home or school for each work period will be covered.
• 50% of any co-op registration fees up to $250 for each session (tuition fees are not eligible).

Does SC Johnson provide housing assistance?

• YES! SC Johnson provides housing assistance to students. You'll pay approximately $300 per month to share an apartment with another student.
• $450 per month for a single apartment.
• All apartments are fully furnished; however, personal items such as a telephone, radio, VCR, stereo, and telephone and cable hookup are not included.

What's available to help me feel "at home" at SC Johnson?

• You, your spouse and your children will be eligible to pay a partial fee to use the Johnson Mutual Benefit Association (JMBA) Recreation & Fitness Facilities and Aquatic Center at Armstrong Park.
• Formal and informal opportunities for enrichment and community service are an integral part of the learning experience. There are numerous events that will allow you to network with other R,D&E employees, students and community members.
• You are eligible to use the Johnson Child Care Center but will be subject to the appropriate child care tuition fees.

How will I know how I'm doing?

• Each student will be assigned a Coordinator and a Supervisor (generally a Section or Sr. Section Manager) to serve as a mentor and coach to enhance the learning experience.
• A performance evaluation and feedback will be delivered by the Intern/Co-Op Supervisor after each work experience.
• A report summarizing your project(s) and experiences will be submitted to your supervisor after each period.
• You will also have an opportunity to present your research to other R,D&E professionals during your department presentation and during the Student Poster Presentation Program.

What other information should I be aware of as a Co-op or Intern Student?

• Your Worker's Compensation coverage will become effective on the first day of employment and will be cancelled on the last day of each work period.
• You are eligible for all company holidays that fall during your work period but are not eligible for vacation. (Special requests should be directed to the Co-Op Supervisor.)
• You will be classified as an exempt employee and therefore will not be eligible for scheduled overtime.
• You will be required to sign a To Maintain Secrecy and Assign Inventions Agreement.