Temporary/Footwear Rapid Prototyping Internship (1 Year, Lawrence, MA)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Temporary/Footwear Rapid Prototyping Internship (1 Year)

Company: New Balance

Location: Lawrence, Massachusetts, United States

Job Type: Temporary, Intern, Full-time

Category: Operations - Product Development & Engineering Support

Date Posted: September 29, 2025

Experience Level: Entry Level / Internship (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This 1-year internship focuses on rapid prototyping within the Footwear Inline Engineering team, contributing to the development of new products through 3D printing operations.

• The role involves managing daily printing schedules, preparing 3D files, operating 3D print and post-processing machinery, and optimizing print settings for efficiency and quality.

• Interns will gain exposure to footwear sole engineering, materials science, costing, and manufacturing processes, while also leading an independent engineering project.

• This position offers a unique opportunity to collaborate with cross-functional teams including designers, developers, sports researchers, product managers, innovation, materials, sourcing, quality, and legal departments.

• The internship emphasizes learning and applying new digital product and process transformation skills within a dynamic consumer products environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the raw job description mentions "Temporary/Footwear Rapid Prototyping Internship," the employment_type field in the input data clarifies it as "FULL_TIME" alongside "TEMPORARY" and "INTERN". This implies a full-time commitment for the duration of the internship. The role is explicitly on-site in Lawrence, MA, five days a week, with US-based applicants only being considered. This is a critical detail for potential applicants to note.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• 3D Printer Operation & Maintenance: Operate and maintain key 3D printing technologies, including Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and UV-curable inkjet printing. Conduct routine maintenance such as cleaning, calibrating, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal equipment performance.

• Print Queue Management & Optimization: Prioritize the print queue based on urgency and equipment availability, track real-time progress, and provide accurate timing estimates. Prepare 3D data for printing, optimizing settings for quality and efficiency.

• Post-Processing & Finishing: Perform various post-processing tasks, including immersion baths, waxing, water jetting, sandblasting, and gluing, to achieve desired model finishes and specifications.

• Inventory & Material Management: Track material consumption for 3D printing supplies and recommend timely ordering schedules to maintain adequate stock levels and prevent production delays.

• Engineering Project Leadership: Independently lead an engineering project within the inline engineering team, applying knowledge of footwear sole engineering, materials, costing, and manufacturing processes to deliver impactful results.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with designers, developers, sports researchers, product managers, and other departments (innovation, materials, sourcing, quality, legal) to engineer and advance new technical products.

• Technical Development Support: Support the engineering of new technical products by understanding performance and consumer needs, and communicating clearly with overseas teams and partners to drive product development forward.

• Process Improvement & Trend Analysis: Seek information about advancements and emerging trends in the rapid prototyping and footwear manufacturing industries, contributing to the future of these processes at New Balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities are split into two main areas: "Rapid Prototyping Intern" and "Engineering Project." The responsibilities listed under "Rapid Prototyping Intern" clearly define the hands-on technical duties related to 3D printing operations. The "Engineering Project" responsibilities highlight the strategic, cross-functional, and leadership aspects expected of the intern, emphasizing their contribution to broader product development initiatives. This dual focus is typical for advanced internships designed to provide comprehensive experience.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing), Material Science, Biomechanics, or a closely related technical field with an emphasis on consumer products.

Experience:

• Entry-level position, ideal for candidates with 0-2 years of experience, including academic projects and internships.

Required Skills:

• 3D Printing Proficiency: Hands-on experience or strong understanding of operating and maintaining 3D printers (specifically SLS and UV-curable inkjet technologies).

• CAD Software Familiarity: Exposure to and basic proficiency with CAD software such as Rhino, Materialise Magics, or SolidWorks for model preparation and optimization.

• Technical Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear and purposeful interaction with cross-functional teams, both domestically and internationally.

• Organizational & Multitasking Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and maintain organized records within a fast-paced, creative environment.

• Problem-Solving Aptitude: A curious, open-minded, and challenge-oriented mindset to troubleshoot technical issues and contribute innovative solutions.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively in a team-oriented setting and collaborate with diverse groups of professionals.

Preferred Skills:

• Materials Science Knowledge: Deeper understanding of material properties relevant to footwear and product development.

• Lean Manufacturing Principles: Familiarity with concepts related to efficiency, waste reduction, and process optimization in manufacturing.

• Data Analysis & Reporting: Experience with basic data analysis for print settings, material usage, and project tracking.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Basic understanding of project timelines, milestones, and tracking development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Requirements for Success" section in the original description directly translates into the Required and Preferred Skills. The Bachelor's degree requirement is specific, and the emphasis on "consumer products" and "3D printing" knowledge is key. The inclusion of specific CAD software examples (Rhino, Materialise Magics, Solidworks) is a strong indicator of the technical tools the intern will engage with. The "successful candidate" profile further informs the soft skills like curiosity and openness to challenges.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Demonstrations: Showcase at least one significant engineering or prototyping project (academic or personal) that demonstrates problem-solving skills, technical application, and a tangible outcome.

• 3D Model Examples: Include examples of 3D models prepared for printing, highlighting any optimization techniques used for supports, orientation, or material efficiency.

• Process Documentation: Where possible, provide documentation or visual aids of a process you designed, implemented, or optimized, even if it's from an academic setting.

• Technical Skill Evidence: Evidence of proficiency with relevant software (CAD, slicer software) through screenshots, project files, or descriptions of your workflow.

Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to articulate their approach to understanding and documenting processes, particularly in relation to the 3D printing workflow from file preparation to post-processing.

• The ability to identify areas for process improvement and suggest data-driven optimizations will be a key focus during project work and potential interviews.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires hands-on technical work and a project-based engineering component. Therefore, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of skills in 3D printing, CAD, and potentially process optimization is highly recommended. While not explicitly stated as a formal requirement, candidates who can showcase relevant projects will have a significant advantage. The "engineering project" aspect strongly suggests the need to demonstrate project lifecycle understanding.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is a temporary internship position, compensation will be competitive and commensurate with intern roles in the footwear and manufacturing sector in the Lawrence, MA area.

• Estimated Range: $20 - $25 per hour, depending on the candidate's academic progress and relevant experience.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance: Three options for medical insurance coverage.

• Dental Insurance: Comprehensive dental coverage.

• Vision Insurance: Vision care coverage.

• Associate Discount: Employee discount on New Balance products.

• Paid Time Off: 4 weeks of vacation and 12 paid holidays.

Working Hours:

• Standard Full-Time: Approximately 40 hours per week.

• Schedule: The role is on-site, 5 days a week in Lawrence, MA. Specific daily start/end times will be communicated during the hiring process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided text outlines benefits for "Regular Associates," "Temporary associates," and "Part time associates." For this specific role, which is "Temporary" and "Full-time," the benefits mentioned are: three options for medical insurance, dental, and vision insurance, and an associate discount. The "Regular Associate Benefits" like 401K, tuition reimbursement, student loan support, and lifestyle reimbursement appear to be for permanent employees. The working hours are explicitly stated as 5 days a week, on-site, implying a standard 40-hour work week. Salary is not specified, so a competitive hourly rate for a 1-year intern in the MA region has been estimated.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Athletic Footwear & Apparel Manufacturing. New Balance is a global leader in the design, manufacturing, and marketing of high-quality athletic footwear and apparel.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (10,000+ employees globally, based on LinkedIn data and New Balance's scale). This means access to extensive resources, established processes, and a wide network of professionals.

Founded: 1906. With over a century of history, New Balance has a deep-rooted heritage in innovation and craftsmanship, which influences its current culture.

Team Structure:

• Inline Engineering Team: The intern will be part of the Inline Engineering team, which is critical to the development of new products across all footwear categories.

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role emphasizes collaboration with a diverse range of footwear professionals, including designers, developers, sports researchers, product managers, innovation, materials, sourcing, quality, and legal teams.

• Reporting: The intern will report to a manager or senior engineer within the Inline Engineering department, likely receiving guidance and project oversight from multiple stakeholders.

Methodology:

• Digital Transformation Focus: New Balance is actively transforming its product and processes to be more digital, aiming to drive enhanced consumer experiences. This internship is at the forefront of this initiative, utilizing advanced prototyping technologies.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: The role implies a reliance on data from 3D printing operations (print settings, material usage, efficiency metrics) and product testing to inform development decisions.

• Agile & Collaborative Development: The emphasis on working with cross-functional teams and leading projects suggests an agile and collaborative approach to product creation, valuing speed and iterative improvement.

Company Website: https://jobs.newbalance.com/global/en

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights New Balance's mission, values, and commitment to positive change and innovation. The "Flexible Work Schedule" section indicates a hybrid model for regular employees, but this specific internship is strictly on-site, 5 days a week. The culture emphasizes in-person teamwork and collaboration, which will likely extend to the intern's daily experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at the Internship/Entry-Level stage, specifically tailored for individuals pursuing a Bachelor's degree or recently graduated, aiming to gain practical, hands-on experience in product development and engineering within a major athletic brand. It serves as a foundational stepping stone into operations, engineering, or product development careers.

Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a manager or senior engineer within the Inline Engineering team. They will also work closely with and receive guidance from various cross-functional teams (designers, developers, product managers, etc.), providing exposure to different leadership styles and operational perspectives.

Operations Impact: The intern's work directly impacts the speed and quality of new footwear product development. By supporting the 3D printing department and leading an engineering project, they contribute to faster iteration cycles, more accurate prototypes, and innovative product solutions that ultimately enhance consumer experiences and market competitiveness for New Balance.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in 3D printing technologies (SLS, UV-curable inkjet), post-processing techniques, and CAD software. Gain practical experience with materials science relevant to footwear.

• Product Development Lifecycle Exposure: Gain comprehensive insight into the entire product creation process, from initial design concepts through to engineering, testing, and manufacturing considerations.

• Cross-Functional Leadership: Develop leadership capabilities by managing an independent engineering project and collaborating effectively with diverse departments, enhancing project management and stakeholder communication skills.

• Industry Insight: Learn about footwear engineering, materials, costing, and manufacturing processes from industry experts, positioning for future roles in sports product development or operations.

• Networking: Build a professional network within New Balance, connecting with experienced engineers, designers, and product managers who can serve as mentors and future references.

📝 Enhancement Note: The internship is designed as a significant learning experience, offering a clear path for skill development and exposure to core business functions. The opportunity to lead a project is a key differentiator, providing a platform to demonstrate initiative and project management skills beyond basic operational tasks. The "Temporary associates are provided..." benefits note is crucial for understanding the specific perks for this role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in New Balance's facility in Lawrence, MA, which likely includes dedicated engineering and prototyping labs. This environment is expected to be a mix of hands-on lab work and collaborative office space.

Office Location(s): Lawrence, Massachusetts, USA. This location is specified for the internship, requiring on-site presence.

Workspace Context:

• Hands-on Lab Environment: Access to 3D printing equipment (SLS, UV-curable inkjet), post-processing machinery, and materials. This will be the primary workspace for operational tasks.

• Collaborative Hub: Opportunities to interact with designers, engineers, and product teams in shared spaces, fostering a dynamic and creative atmosphere.

• Technology & Tools: Access to relevant software (CAD, slicing software) and potentially other engineering tools necessary for the internship project.

Work Schedule:

• On-site, 5 Days/Week: The internship requires a full-time commitment, Monday through Friday, at the Lawrence, MA facility.

• Standard Business Hours: While exact hours will be confirmed, expect a typical 8-hour workday, aligning with standard business operations in the product development cycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the "in-person teamwork and collaboration" culture at New Balance. Even though the company offers hybrid models for regular associates, this internship is strictly on-site, 5 days a week. This indicates a strong emphasis on direct mentorship, hands-on training, and immersive team integration within the engineering lab environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Resume and application review to assess academic background, relevant skills, and alignment with internship requirements.

• Technical Interview: Likely to include questions about 3D printing technologies, CAD software, materials science, and basic engineering principles. Candidates may be asked to discuss their understanding of prototyping processes.

• Project Discussion/Presentation: If a portfolio is submitted, candidates may be asked to walk through a specific project, detailing their role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes. For the engineering project component, they might be asked about their approach to project management and problem-solving.

• Behavioral Interview: Focus on teamwork, communication, problem-solving, adaptability, and cultural fit within the New Balance environment. Questions may probe how candidates handle challenges, work in teams, and learn new skills.

• Final Round: Potentially a discussion with a hiring manager or senior leadership to finalize the selection.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Process & Impact: For any project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your process (design, prototyping, testing), the tools/technologies used, and the quantifiable results or learnings.

• Highlight 3D Printing & CAD: Specifically include examples of your work with 3D models, slicing software, and any direct experience with 3D printers. Detail your approach to preparing files for print.

• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: For your engineering project, present a clear narrative of a challenge and how you systematically approached and resolved it.

• Tailor to Footwear: If possible, relate your projects or skills to athletic footwear or sports product development, even if indirectly.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prototyping Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario involving a product development challenge where rapid prototyping could be a solution. Think about how you would approach the problem, what information you would need, and what steps you would take.

• Process Optimization Question: Consider how you would improve an existing process (e.g., print queue management, post-processing workflow). Focus on efficiency, quality, and data.

• Collaboration Case Study: Think about a time you had to work with a diverse team to achieve a common goal, especially if there were differing opinions or technical challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the hands-on nature of the role and the emphasis on an engineering project, a portfolio is highly beneficial. Interviewers will likely probe for practical application of skills and the ability to manage a project from conception to completion. Understanding New Balance's product development cycle and the role of rapid prototyping within it will be advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Printing Technologies:

  • SLS (Selective Laser Sintering): Key technology for producing durable, functional prototypes.
  • UV-Curable Inkjet Printing: Likely refers to technologies like PolyJet or MultiJet Fusion, used for high-resolution, multi-material prototypes.

• CAD Software:

  • Rhino: Widely used for freeform surface modeling, common in product design.
  • Materialise Magics: Specialized software for 3D printing preparation, repair, and optimization.
  • SolidWorks: Parametric 3D CAD software, often used for mechanical design and engineering.

• Post-Processing Equipment: Immersion baths, waxing stations, water jetters, sandblasters, glueing equipment.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Spreadsheet Software: Essential for tracking print schedules, material inventory, and basic data analysis (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets).

• Database Software: Potentially used for managing print jobs, material logs, or project data, though likely basic utilization for an intern.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this operational/engineering support role, but understanding how product development data flows into broader company systems might be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw description explicitly names SLS and UV-curable inkjet printing as key technologies, along with specific CAD software (Rhino, Materialise Magics, Solidworks). This indicates a strong technical focus. The mention of "field-related software" and "PC skills" in the requirements suggests general proficiency with standard office software and potentially specialized engineering applications.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Craftsmanship: New Balance's long history is built on challenging conventions and delivering high-quality products. This internship encourages exploring new prototyping methods and maintaining a standard of excellence.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: The company emphasizes in-person teamwork. The intern will be expected to actively contribute to team discussions, share insights, and support colleagues.

• Empowerment & Positive Change: New Balance aims to empower people and create positive change. As an intern, you are empowered to learn, contribute, and shape the future of product development.

• Accountability & Excellence: Associates are expected to take ownership of their work and strive for excellence, whether in operating machinery, managing a project, or collaborating with teams.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: A core aspect of the role involves working seamlessly with diverse teams (design, engineering, product management, materials, etc.), requiring strong interpersonal skills and a willingness to understand different perspectives.

• Open Communication: Expect a culture where clear, purposeful communication is valued, facilitating the smooth progression of product development and project timelines.

• Learning & Development Focused: The environment supports continuous learning, encouraging interns to ask questions, seek out information, and actively participate in knowledge sharing related to new technologies and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description clearly states core values and a culture that emphasizes innovation, craftsmanship, and community impact. The "Flexible Work Schedule" section highlights the focus on in-person teamwork, which is directly relevant to the collaborative style expected of the intern. The intern should be prepared to integrate into this dynamic, team-oriented, and innovation-driven environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving Technology: Staying abreast of the fast-paced advancements in 3D printing and rapid prototyping requires continuous learning and adaptation.

• Balancing Operational Duties with Project Work: Effectively managing day-to-day operational tasks in the 3D printing department while dedicating sufficient time and focus to an independent engineering project.

• Cross-Departmental Communication: Navigating communication and project alignment across various departments, each with its own priorities and technical language.

• Meeting Demanding Timelines: Contributing to product development cycles that often have aggressive deadlines, requiring efficient work and proactive problem-solving.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mastering Advanced Prototyping: Gaining hands-on expertise in cutting-edge 3D printing technologies and post-processing techniques crucial for modern product development.

• Understanding Footwear Engineering: Deep dive into the technical aspects of footwear design, materials, performance requirements, and manufacturing considerations.

• Project Management Skills: Developing practical skills in planning, executing, and reporting on an engineering project, from conception to completion.

• Industry Exposure: Learning from seasoned professionals in a leading athletic brand and understanding the operational nuances of bringing innovative products to market.

• Career Exploration: This internship provides a robust platform to explore career paths in engineering, product development, operations, and R&D within the sports industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a blend of technical operational challenges and strategic project-based growth opportunities. The emphasis on leading an engineering project is a significant growth driver, offering a chance to take on responsibility and demonstrate leadership potential beyond standard internship duties.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Prototyping Scenario: "Imagine we need to rapidly prototype a new cushioning system for a running shoe. What 3D printing technologies would you consider, and what are the trade-offs?" (Focus on technology selection, material properties, and application).

• Process Improvement: "How would you optimize the workflow in a 3D printing lab to increase throughput while maintaining quality?" (Focus on queue management, automation, post-processing efficiency).

• Project Management Approach: "Describe your approach to managing an engineering project from start to finish, including how you would handle potential roadblocks." (Focus on planning, execution, communication, and problem-solving).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why are you interested in New Balance and this specific internship role?" (Connect your skills, interests, and career goals to the company's mission, products, and the internship's responsibilities).

• Teamwork Experience: "Describe a time you worked effectively as part of a team on a technical project. What was your role, and how did you contribute to the team's success?" (Highlight collaboration, communication, and contribution).

• Adaptability: "How do you approach learning new technologies or software? Give an example." (Demonstrate curiosity, proactive learning, and problem-solving when encountering the unfamiliar).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your solution, the process you followed, the tools you used, and the outcome. Quantify results where possible.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Specifically showcase your work with CAD software, 3D model preparation for printing, and any direct experience with 3D printers.

• Demonstrate Project Ownership: For your engineering project, articulate your leadership, decision-making process, and how you managed timelines and deliverables.

• Be Concise and Focused: Select your strongest, most relevant projects and be prepared to discuss them in detail, but also be able to summarize them effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviews will likely assess both technical aptitude and problem-solving skills, with a strong emphasis on practical application and project management. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their technical work, their approach to challenges, and their understanding of the product development lifecycle in the context of athletic footwear.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the New Balance careers portal via the provided URL.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant coursework in engineering, material science, or biomechanics, any experience with CAD software, and any prior exposure to 3D printing or manufacturing processes. Use keywords from the job description.

• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a digital portfolio showcasing your best academic or personal projects. Include examples of CAD work, 3D print preparations, and ideally, a case study of a project you led or significantly contributed to, detailing challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your technical skills, problem-solving approach, and teamwork experience. Practice articulating your project work and your understanding of rapid prototyping in footwear development.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with New Balance's history, product lines (especially footwear innovations), company values, and recent news to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.