Develop and conduct research studies to validate AI-generated voice-of-customer personas and establish virtual-reality methods for consumer new-product research. Analyze user feedback, define evaluation metrics, collaborate with the team, manage assigned work, and present findings in a final report and presentation.
Requirements overview
Applicants must be enrolled in a relevant bachelor's degree program, have an anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029, maintain at least a 3.00 GPA, and be available full-time for 12 weeks in summer 2027. They must have reliable transportation and U.S. work authorization; preferred qualifications include exposure to user research and voice-of-customer methods, understanding of design-research theories, and strong communication and collaboration skills.
James Hardie Industries is the world’s #1 producer and marketer of high-performance fiber cement and fiber gypsum building solutions. We employ a diverse global workforce of approximately 5,800 employees across operations in North America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, and generated more than $3.9 billion in net sales during our 2024 financial year.
We believe that home is a sanctuary and a canvas for self-expression without compromise. As the trusted innovator and industry leader in the markets where we operate, James Hardie empowers homeowners and building professionals alike to achieve their dream home with premium quality solutions that enable endless possibilities for design and aesthetics, while also delivering trusted protection and long-lasting beauty.
Key to this effort is our dedication to our customers, market driven innovation, an inclusive and empowering company culture, and an unwavering commitment to our Zero Harm safety initiative. We also recognize the company’s ability to influence the communities in which we live and work around the world. While operating with a global mindset, we put great care into how our business impacts the local communities in which we operate and serve by sourcing locally, employing locally and delivering locally.
James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®. With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities. For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.Summary
As a James Hardie intern, you will gain hands-on experience in your chosen field while contributing to meaningful projects that drive business results. Our 12-week paid internship program is designed to provide real-world industry exposure, strengthen your professional and technical skills, and help prepare you for a successful career. Throughout the program, you will collaborate with experienced professionals, build valuable relationships across the organization, and take on work that makes a measurable impact. You will also have access to mentoring opportunities and professional development resources to support your growth and career aspirations. What You’ll Do:
Internship Objective
Advance current AI-persona and virtual-reality research by developing research methodologies and validating project goals. You will help evaluate AI-generated voice-of-customer personas and establish methods for using virtual reality in consumer new-product research.
Internship Responsibilities
Collect and analyze user feedback to identify user needs, behaviors, preferences and opportunities
Design and execute research studies for AI personas using Human Factors and UX research methodologies
Develop study protocols and metrics to evaluate user feedback
Evaluate emerging research approaches including AI generated VOC personas
Validate responses from AI-generated voice-of-customer personas.
Collaborate with team members to deliver project objectives while independently managing assigned work.
Identify and communicate roadblocks, resource needs, and project risks in a timely manner.
Prepare a final report and presentation of AI-persona validation metrics and demonstrate the developed virtual-reality research methodology.
What You’ll Bring:
Currently enrolled in a bachelor's degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.00.
Available to work full-time for 12 weeks during summer 2027.
Reliable transportation to and from the work location.
Authorization to work in the United States.
Preferred Skills
Target majors: Human Factors Engineering, Human-Centered Design, User Experience (UX) Design, User Experience Research, Cognitive Science, Psychology (especially Human Factors, Cognitive, or Experimental Psychology).
Exposure to user research and voice-of-customer methods.
Understanding of design-research theories.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
Excellent communication skills.
What You’ll Receive:
As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $20 to $25 per hour. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and may change over time.
Full-time work experience and competitive pay
Meaningful projects with business impact
Mentorship and guidance
Feedback and evaluation
Exposure to James Hardie culture
Networking opportunities and skill development
James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran's status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law. James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies. The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.