Thermal Processing Intern

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Job Overview

The Thermal Processing Intern is responsible for a range of support activities for Operations supporting a range of heat treatment processes and metallurgical lab investigations. Activities will include developing new processes, performing hardened depth measurements, rating microstructures, and writing work instructions.  Other activities include data analysis for process control and quality improvements.    

This onsite position will be based at our South Harbor location in Milwaukee’s Harbor District. The target start date for this role is Summer 2026 and has potential to be extended into the Fall 2026 school semester. We offer full-time hours during the summer and flexible part-time hours during the academic year. 

Key Job Responsibilities

• Help develop and test new recipes for low pressure carburizing (LPC) furnace
• Partner with team members from other parts of the organization for process or quality improvement projects  
• Test production samples for load verification using standard metallurgical lab equipment 
• Support troubleshooting quality and process issues while learning the equipment and processes  
• Implement plan for system accuracy tests (SAT) on equipment  
• Create work instructions for induction harden, salt bath, and carburizing process equipment 
• Support lean manufacturing/continuous improvement projects 

Qualifications/Requirements

• Pursuing a bachelor’s or advanced degree in Materials Science and Engineering or Metallurgy, or similar, from an accredited college or university 
• Sophomore, Junior, Senior, or master’s level student in good academic standing 
• Ability to work independently as well as part of a team towards a goal 
• Excellent organization and personal time management skills, ability to handle multiple tasks 
• Strong written and verbal communication skills 
• Possess effective problem solving and critical thinking skills; ability to be creative and resourceful when needed  

Preferred Skills

• Experience with data analysis and statistics 
• Basic understanding of ferrous microstructures 
• Basic understanding of heat treatment processes such as induction, carburizing, neutral hardening  

 

Company Benefits 

Komatsu provides an extensive and robust employee benefits package that is designed to enhance the well-being of our employees and family members. We embrace a positive and empowering employee experience with a culture that prides itself on a diverse and inclusive environment.

• Health benefits: Medical, dental, vision, HSA, wellness programs, etc.
• 401k and/or employee savings programs
• Employee time off (vacation and designated holidays)
• Employee and family assistance programs
• Disability benefits
• Life insurance
• Employee learning and development programs

 

Diversity & Inclusion Commitment 

At Komatsu, we come from diverse backgrounds, with unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions.  We are committed to creating a workforce that is reflective of the communities we work and live in. We believe that our people are part of our shared purpose. Connected by our core values of ambition, perseverance, collaboration and authenticity, we are committed to continually advancing in our support of diversity and inclusion. United, we are on a journey towards a sustainable future that creates value together.  

 

Company Information 

Komatsu develops and supplies technologies, equipment and services for the construction, mining, forklift, industrial and forestry markets. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu employs more than 64,000 people worldwide, operating in more than 140 countries. For more than a century, the company has been creating value for its customers through manufacturing and technology innovation, partnering with others to empower a sustainable future where people, business and the planet thrive together. Since the company’s founding in 1921, Komatsu has been committed to supporting individuals and communities through job training, skills development and giving back. As a Komatsu employee,