Process Engineer Intern

Kern Energy is seeking a Process Engineering Intern who will work under the guidance of experienced engineers to support operations and process improvement initiatives across various refinery units. This internship is designed to provide hands-on experience in process engineering within a refinery setting, offering opportunities to learn technical concepts, participate in projects, and contribute to operational efficiency. The intern is expected to demonstrate Kern’s core values of Teamwork, Safety, Excellence, Integrity, and Connection throughout the program.

Job Function

• Monitor the operation of process units and utilities. Gather data generated and stored in the data historian for analysis. Issue reports that document unit performance over several months or years.
• Provide end-of-run estimations for process units and turnaround planning.
• Participate in incident investigations and root cause analysis by reviewing data and information. Recommend solutions to prevent recurrence.
• Evaluate catalyst performance and work with operations staff to adjust process conditions to achieve feed and desired effluent properties.
• Evaluate current processes and systems for optimization (ie. Energy, chemical, process optimization).
• Participate in Process Safety Management meetings and reviews (PHA, SPA, HCA, etc.).
• Conduct process system sizing calculations.
• Update process operation manuals and complete management of change (MOC) documentation.
• Develop and maintain process and utility unit mass balances and make adjustments as necessary. Identify and correct discrepancies.
• Manage small capital projects.
• Inspect process equipment during turnarounds and provide technical support.
• This position includes standing or walking most of the time, with bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, and reaching; includes working on irregular surfaces, occasionally lifting objects weighing over 25 pounds.
• Work with operations staff to safely collects samples to identify product quality issues
• Performs other duties as assigned.
• Participates in all health, safety, and environmental programs.
  
  

Learning Objectives

• Gain exposure to key refinery processes and operations.
• Understand how process engineers support day-to-day operations, unit optimization, and turnaround events.
• Learn to analyze process data and draw basic conclusions with mentorship.
• Develop foundational knowledge of refinery safety standards, compliance, and engineering practices.
• Improve communication and collaboration skills in a real-world engineering environment.
  
  

Qualifications

Knowledge Skills

• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to communicate technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management software and tools.
• Knowledge of applicable regulations, standards, and guidelines.
• Willingness to learn and take on new challenges.
  
  

Education/ Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• Completion of sophomore year or higher preferred.