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 Full-Time Internship
Category: Operations (Product Development & Engineering Support)
Date Posted: 2025-09-26
Experience Level: Entry-Level (Internship)
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Support the daily operations of a critical 3D printing department within the Inline Engineering team, directly contributing to new footwear product development.
• Manage and execute the 3D printing workflow, from file preparation and optimization to operating advanced printing and post-processing machinery.
• Lead a focused engineering project, gaining hands-on experience in footwear sole engineering, materials, costing, and manufacturing processes.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with design, development, materials, sourcing, quality, and legal teams to drive product innovation and ensure successful project outcomes.
• Develop new skills in digital product creation and advanced manufacturing processes as New Balance transforms its product development lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is specifically designed for individuals pursuing a degree in engineering or a related technical field, offering substantial practical experience in advanced manufacturing and product development within the athletic footwear industry. It's a full-time, one-year temporary role requiring on-site presence.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• 3D Printer Operations: Operate and monitor key 3D printing technologies, including Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and UV-curable inkjet printing, ensuring adherence to quality standards and production schedules.
• Print Queue Management: Prioritize and manage the daily printing schedule, meticulously tracking progress, estimating completion times, and communicating updates to stakeholders.
• 3D Model Preparation: Prepare and optimize 3D data files for printing, ensuring accurate geometry, appropriate support structures, and efficient material usage.
• Post-Processing: Perform essential post-processing tasks such as immersion bathing, waxing, water jetting, sand blasting, and gluing to finish and refine 3D printed components.
• Equipment Maintenance: Conduct routine maintenance, calibration, and troubleshooting for 3D printers and post-processing equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
• Inventory Management: Monitor material consumption, track inventory levels for 3D printing consumables, and recommend timely material reordering to maintain supply chain continuity.
• Engineering Project Leadership: Take ownership of a dedicated engineering project, from ideation through to execution, applying technical knowledge to solve specific product development challenges.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with designers, developers, sports researchers, product managers, innovation, materials, sourcing, quality, and legal teams to gather requirements, provide technical insights, and drive project milestones.
• Technical Development Support: Assist in the physical testing of engineered components and contribute to solving technical development issues related to plastics engineering, molding, and costing.
• Industry Trend Research: Proactively research advancements and emerging trends in rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing, identifying opportunities to enhance New Balance's capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are split between hands-on operational duties within the 3D printing department and project-based engineering work, offering a comprehensive learning experience. The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration highlights the importance of communication and teamwork in a fast-paced product development environment.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Materials, Manufacturing), Material Science, Biomechanics, or a closely related technical field.
• A strong academic background with an emphasis on consumer products and a foundational understanding of 3D printing technologies is required.

Experience:

• Previous internship or co-op experience in a manufacturing, prototyping, or engineering environment is highly beneficial.
• Basic knowledge of manufacturing processes, prototyping techniques, mold making, and material properties is expected.

Required Skills:

• 3D Printing Operations: Hands-on experience or strong understanding of operating and maintaining 3D printers (SLS and UV-curable inkjet knowledge is a plus).
• CAD Software Proficiency: Exposure to and ability to work with CAD software such as Rhino, Materialise Magics, or Solidworks for file preparation and optimization.
• Technical Aptitude: Ability to understand technical specifications, interpret 3D data, and troubleshoot equipment and process issues.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities to effectively collaborate with diverse teams and articulate technical concepts.
• Organizational Skills: Strong ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and maintain detailed records in a fast-paced environment.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented, creative setting, contributing positively to group projects.

Preferred Skills:

• Materials Science Knowledge: Deeper understanding of material properties and their application in footwear and consumer products.
• Process Optimization: Experience in analyzing and improving manufacturing or prototyping processes for efficiency and quality.
• Data Analysis: Basic ability to interpret data from printing processes or project outcomes to identify areas for improvement.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Familiarity with project timelines, milestone tracking, and basic project planning.
• Consumer Product Development: Understanding of the product development lifecycle for consumer goods, particularly in the footwear industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical skills directly related to 3D printing and broader engineering principles, alongside essential soft skills like communication and teamwork, crucial for success in a collaborative product development setting. The mention of specific CAD software indicates a practical focus on tool proficiency.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Prototyping Case Studies: Showcase examples of 3D printed prototypes, detailing the design intent, materials used, printing process, and any challenges overcome.
• Process Optimization Examples: If applicable, include instances where you analyzed or improved a workflow, manufacturing process, or operational task, highlighting the impact (e.g., time saved, quality improved).
• System Interaction Documentation: Document any experience with managing or interacting with specific systems, such as inventory tracking, print job queues, or basic project management tools.
• Technical Problem-Solving: Present a specific technical challenge encountered (e.g., print failure, material issue) and outline the systematic approach taken to diagnose and resolve it.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Demonstrate understanding of how to document a process, including steps, inputs, outputs, and responsible parties, particularly for additive manufacturing workflows.
• Optimization & Automation: Show evidence of identifying opportunities for process improvement, automation, or efficiency gains within a technical or operational context.
• Performance Measurement: Include examples of tracking key metrics related to process output, quality, or efficiency, and how this data was used for analysis or reporting.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal portfolio might not be strictly required for an internship, candidates are strongly encouraged to prepare examples of their technical work, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of process improvement. This is particularly relevant for showcasing project work and demonstrating practical application of theoretical knowledge in areas like 3D printing and manufacturing.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• As this is a temporary internship position, compensation will be provided on an hourly basis. While specific rates are not disclosed, internships at a company of New Balance's caliber typically offer competitive hourly wages commensurate with the role's responsibilities and the candidate's academic standing. For a 1-year, full-time internship in Lawrence, MA, an estimated hourly range could be between $18 - $25 USD per hour, depending on the candidate's specific qualifications and year in their degree program.

Benefits:

• Medical Insurance: Three medical insurance plan options available.
• Dental Insurance: Comprehensive dental coverage.
• Vision Insurance: Vision care benefits.
• Associate Discount: Discount on New Balance products.
• Learning & Development: Access to online learning courses and tuition reimbursement.
• Student Loan Support: $100 monthly contribution towards student loan payments.
• Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to participate in various mentorship initiatives.
• Lifestyle Reimbursement: Yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement for employee well-being.
• Paid Time Off: 4 weeks of vacation and 12 paid holidays.
• Parental Leave: Generous parental leave policy.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time, 1-year temporary position. The standard working hours are expected to be 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, in alignment with typical business operations for an on-site role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation estimate is based on general internship market rates for similar roles and locations in the US. The benefits listed are comprehensive, especially for a temporary role, indicating New Balance's commitment to associate well-being and development. The specific mention of student loan support and lifestyle reimbursement are notable perks.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Athletic Footwear and Apparel. New Balance operates within a highly competitive and innovative global market, driven by technological advancements, athlete performance, and consumer trends. Company Size: Large (typically over 10,000 employees globally). This indicates a well-established organization with robust processes, diverse departments, and significant resources for innovation and development. Founded: 1906. With over a century of history, New Balance has a deep legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and brand evolution. This longevity suggests stability, a strong understanding of its market, and a commitment to long-term vision.

Team Structure:

• Inline Engineering Team: This team is likely a core component of the product development lifecycle, focusing on bringing commercially viable products to market.
• Cross-Functional Integration: The role emphasizes working with designers, developers, materials specialists, sourcing, quality assurance, and legal teams, highlighting a highly collaborative and integrated product creation process.
• Reporting Hierarchy: Interns typically report to a direct manager or mentor within the Inline Engineering team, with potential exposure to senior engineers and product leaders.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Product Development: New Balance leverages data from athlete performance, consumer feedback, and market trends to inform product design and engineering decisions.
• Agile & Iterative Processes: Rapid prototyping and iterative development are core to creating innovative footwear, suggesting a methodology that embraces experimentation and continuous improvement.
• Digital Transformation: The company is actively investing in digital tools and processes to enhance product creation, efficiency, and consumer experience, making this internship a front-row seat to industry evolution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: New Balance's culture is characterized by a blend of rich history, a forward-thinking approach to innovation, and a commitment to its core values and community impact. For an operations intern, this means being part of a structured yet dynamic environment focused on delivering high-quality, performance-driven products. The emphasis on digital transformation is a key aspect of their current strategy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-level internship role, serving as a foundational experience in product development and engineering operations. It's designed for individuals early in their academic or career journey. Reporting Structure: The intern will report to a designated mentor or manager within the Inline Engineering team. This provides direct guidance and oversight, facilitating learning and development. The role also involves significant collaboration with various departments, offering exposure to different functional areas and senior professionals. Operations Impact: While an intern's direct impact is typically focused on project execution and operational support, their contributions to rapid prototyping and engineering projects directly influence the speed and quality of new product development. Successful project delivery can lead to faster time-to-market and improved product performance, ultimately impacting revenue and consumer satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Skill Development: Deepen expertise in 3D printing technologies (SLS, UV-curable inkjet), post-processing techniques, and CAD software. Gain practical experience in materials science and footwear engineering fundamentals.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Develop a broad understanding of the entire product development lifecycle by interacting with design, materials, sourcing, quality, and legal teams.
• Project Leadership Experience: Gain valuable experience leading a specific engineering project, from concept to execution, enhancing project management and problem-solving skills.
• Industry Insight: Learn about the athletic footwear industry's dynamics, market trends, and the operational processes that drive innovation and manufacturing.
• Networking: Build professional relationships with engineers, designers, and product managers at a leading global brand.
• Potential for Future Roles: Successful interns may be considered for future internship opportunities or entry-level positions within New Balance, depending on performance and business needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is positioned as a significant learning opportunity, providing a comprehensive introduction to product development operations within the athletic footwear sector. The structured growth path emphasizes hands-on skill acquisition, cross-functional understanding, and project ownership, making it a valuable stepping stone for a career in operations or engineering.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Lawrence, MA, and operates within a hybrid work model. While the internship requires 5 days a week in the office, New Balance's broader hybrid policy involves in-office collaboration three days a week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) for permanent associates, with "Work from Anywhere" (WFA) flexibility for four weeks per year. For interns, the expectation is full-time on-site presence. Office Location(s): Lawrence, Massachusetts, USA. This location likely houses significant product development, engineering, and potentially manufacturing-related operations. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office environment is designed to foster in-person teamwork and connection, essential for the iterative and collaborative nature of product development.
• Access to Technology: Interns will have access to advanced 3D printing equipment, post-processing machinery, and relevant software tools necessary for their role and engineering project.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct engagement with engineers, designers, and product teams, facilitating knowledge sharing and hands-on learning.

Work Schedule: The internship is a full-time, 1-year temporary position requiring 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday. The on-site requirement is consistent throughout the internship duration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is geared towards hands-on, collaborative product development. While the company offers some flexibility for permanent employees, this internship is a full-time, on-site commitment, emphasizing immersion in the daily operations and team dynamics of the Inline Engineering department.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed based on academic background, relevant skills, and stated interest in 3D printing and footwear development.
• Technical Assessment/Interview: Candidates may undergo a technical interview to assess their understanding of engineering principles, manufacturing processes, and familiarity with CAD or 3D printing concepts. This could involve problem-solving scenarios or discussions about relevant academic projects.
• Project/Portfolio Discussion: For candidates with prior projects or a portfolio, there will be an opportunity to discuss their work, demonstrating their capabilities and approach to problem-solving.
• Behavioral Interview: Interviews will likely assess cultural fit, teamwork abilities, communication skills, and motivation for pursuing this specific internship at New Balance.
• Final Interview: Potentially with the hiring manager or senior team members to finalize selection.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Relevant Projects: Highlight academic projects, personal projects, or previous internship work that demonstrates your skills in CAD, 3D printing, materials, or engineering problem-solving.
• Detail Your Process: For each project, clearly explain the problem statement, your approach, the tools and technologies used, the challenges faced, and the outcome or lessons learned.
• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, quantify the impact of your work (e.g., "reduced print time by 15%", "improved model accuracy by X%").
• Focus on Footwear/Consumer Products: If you have experience or projects related to footwear, apparel, or consumer goods, emphasize these.
• Demonstrate Curiosity: Express your enthusiasm for learning about footwear engineering and rapid prototyping at New Balance.

Challenge Preparation:

• Technical Fundamentals: Be prepared to discuss core engineering principles relevant to materials, manufacturing, and design.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would approach common issues in 3D printing, such as print failures, material limitations, or optimizing print settings.
• Project Planning: Consider how you would approach planning and executing the engineering project outlined in the job description, including setting objectives, identifying resources, and managing timelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely focus on assessing both technical aptitude and cultural fit. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their academic work and any practical experience, demonstrating their problem-solving skills and enthusiasm for the specific domain of footwear rapid prototyping. A well-curated portfolio or project examples will significantly strengthen an application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Printers: SLS (Selective Laser Sintering) and UV-curable inkjet printing technologies. Familiarity with specific printer models or brands would be a plus.
• Post-Processing Equipment: Immersion baths, waxing stations, water jetting machines, sand blasting equipment, gluing tools.
• CAD Software: Rhino, Materialise Magics, Solidworks. Proficiency in one or more of these is expected for model preparation and optimization.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Tracking Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, interns may use spreadsheets (Excel/Google Sheets) or internal systems for tracking print jobs, material consumption, and project progress.
• Reporting Software: Potentially involved in generating basic reports on print outputs or project milestones.

CRM & Automation:

• PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) Systems: Exposure to PLM systems is common in product development, though direct interaction might be limited for an intern.
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Asana, Trello, or Jira could be beneficial for managing the engineering project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on additive manufacturing. Proficiency in the mentioned CAD software is critical, as is a willingness to learn and operate specialized 3D printing and post-processing machinery. Experience with data tracking and basic project management tools will also be advantageous.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Craftsmanship: New Balance values pushing boundaries in product design and manufacturing while maintaining a high standard of quality and detail.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: A strong emphasis is placed on working together across departments to achieve common goals, fostering a sense of shared purpose.
• Integrity & Respect: Upholding ethical standards and treating all individuals with respect are fundamental to the company's operations and culture.
• Customer Focus: Driven by the desire to create products that benefit athletes and consumers, with a commitment to enhancing their experiences.
• Passion for Sport: A shared enthusiasm for athletics and active lifestyles permeates the company, influencing product development and company culture.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Product Teams: Expect close collaboration with cross-functional teams (design, development, materials, sourcing, legal) working in integrated project groups.
• Open Communication: A culture that encourages open dialogue, feedback exchange, and transparent communication to ensure alignment and efficient problem-solving.
• Learning & Development Focus: The team likely supports continuous learning, encouraging members to share knowledge, explore new technologies, and develop their skills collaboratively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at New Balance emphasizes a blend of innovation, teamwork, and a genuine passion for sports. For an operations intern, this means being part of a dynamic, supportive environment where collaboration is key to bringing cutting-edge products to life. Demonstrating these values in your work and interactions will be crucial.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Pace of Innovation: The footwear industry is fast-paced, requiring quick adaptation to new technologies, materials, and market demands. Staying ahead in rapid prototyping is a constant challenge.
• Technical Complexity: Operating and troubleshooting advanced 3D printing equipment and complex manufacturing processes requires continuous learning and problem-solving.
• Cross-Functional Alignment: Effectively communicating and coordinating with diverse teams, each with different priorities and technical languages, can be challenging.
• Project Scope Management: Successfully managing an engineering project from start to finish within a defined timeframe and resource constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Skill Acquisition: Gain expert-level practical skills in advanced additive manufacturing techniques and post-processing.
• Industry Immersion: Deep understanding of the athletic footwear product development lifecycle, from concept to commercialization.
• Mentorship & Guidance: Receive direct mentorship from experienced engineers and product developers, providing invaluable career advice and technical insights.
• Networking Opportunities: Build connections with professionals across various departments, opening doors for future career exploration within the industry.
• Exposure to Cutting-Edge Technology: Work with the latest tools and technologies that are shaping the future of footwear design and manufacturing.

📝 Enhancement Note: This internship is designed to present both challenges and significant growth opportunities. Tackling technical complexities and cross-functional coordination will be key to developing resilience and problem-solving skills, while mentorship and hands-on experience offer a strong foundation for a career in product development operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Approach: "Describe a complex technical problem you've solved, detailing your process and the outcome." (Focus on logical steps, problem diagnosis, and solution implementation, ideally related to engineering or manufacturing).
• Process Improvement: "How would you approach optimizing the workflow for 3D print job scheduling to improve efficiency and reduce turnaround time?" (Think about prioritization, resource allocation, and communication).
• Collaboration: "Describe a time you had to work with a team with diverse technical backgrounds. How did you ensure effective communication and alignment?" (Highlight active listening, clear articulation, and conflict resolution).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: "Why New Balance, and why this specific internship in Footwear Rapid Prototyping?" (Connect your interests to the company's innovation, brand, and the specific role's technical aspects).
• Team Dynamics: "What do you believe are the most important qualities for an intern to possess when joining a new team?" (Emphasize curiosity, proactivity, willingness to learn, and respect for team members).
• Industry Insight: "What recent trends in additive manufacturing or footwear technology have caught your attention?" (Show you've done your research and are passionate about the field).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Project Overview: For each project, provide a brief summary of the goal, your role, and the key technologies used.
• Visual Aids: Use clear images, diagrams, or even short videos to showcase your work, especially 3D prints or prototypes.
• Focus on Process & Impact: Explain the 'how' and 'why' behind your design and execution choices, and any measurable results or lessons learned.
• Enthusiasm & Learning: Convey your excitement for the field and your eagerness to learn from the New Balance team.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of technical understanding, problem-solving skills, collaborative spirit, and genuine interest in New Balance and the footwear industry. Be ready to articulate your experiences and how they align with the internship's requirements.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the New Balance careers portal via the provided URL.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight academic achievements, coursework in engineering or material science, any experience with CAD software, 3D printing, or manufacturing processes. Quantify accomplishments where possible.
• Prepare Project Examples: Compile examples of academic projects, personal projects, or previous internship work that showcase your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of manufacturing or prototyping. These can be discussed during interviews or presented if a portfolio is requested.
• Research New Balance: Familiarize yourself with New Balance's history, its commitment to innovation, its product lines, and its core values. Understand their position in the athletic footwear market.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, focusing on technical aptitude, collaborative skills, and your motivation for pursuing this specific internship. Be ready to discuss your projects in detail.

⚠️ 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.

---