Supply Chain Rotating Intern, Summer 2027

Location: Houston, TX

About Kuraray America

Voted one of the Nation's Best and Brightest Companies to Work for, Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) is a global leader in specialty chemical, fiber, and resin production. With top-of-the-line research and production facilities and a vast network of supplies from around the world, Kuraray leads the industry in specialty dental, fiber, resin, and elastomer products. Kuraray America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kuraray Company, Ltd., based in Tokyo, Japan. Kuraray has operations in 32 countries and employs more than 11,000 employees, including over 800 in the United States.

Founded in 1926, Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Team members are dedicated to expanding the business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability. As part of Kuraray America, the team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. International presence and resources allow Kuraray to be a world-leading innovator, yet despite its size, people are more than just a number. New team members can expect to earn responsibility quickly, supported by a comprehensive benefits package, competitive salaries, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.

In 2026, Kuraray celebrates its 100th anniversary — a historic milestone filled with local and global events, storytelling campaigns, and sustainability initiatives reflecting the company's legacy and future vision. Interns are encouraged to participate in commemorative projects and anniversary events while experiencing firsthand what it means to be part of a company with a century-long commitment to innovation, safety, and community impact.

About the role

The Supply Chain Intern will gain hands-on experience in various aspects of supply chain operations, including warehouse management, ocean freight exports, and vendor performance tracking. This role provides exposure to the logistics function at Kuraray America, Inc., with active involvement in bidding processes, contract evaluations, and network optimization initiatives. The intern will also support the U.S. Product Management team by monitoring inventory across multiple warehouses and developing automated reporting tools using Power BI. Through research and analysis, the intern will identify business challenges and contribute practical solutions, building a strong foundation in logistics and supply chain strategy. Housing will not be provided for the internship.

The Supply Chain Intern will rotate through core supply chain functions during the internship: logistics operations, procurement, and product management for the PVOH business unit. Opportunities include learning about the various roles and functions within supply chain, exposure to a variety of experienced supply chain professionals, and working with team members to accomplish function-specific tasks and meet project deadlines. Assignments will be driven by current business needs at the time of internship. The position lays the groundwork for future careers by gaining real-world experience in support of Kuraray's supply chain teams.

Responsibilities

• Learn the business of the logistics industry and participate in warehouse optimization activities
• Introduction to the logistics procurement function role with a focus on data analytics and supplier and contract analysis
• Support the U.S. Product Management team with various tasks and projects to ensure the availability, as well as the accuracy, of inventory for products sold to the market
• Identify various business issues and provide solutions via research

Qualifications

• Pursuing a B.S., B.A., or graduate degree in Business, Supply Chain, Logistics, Engineering, or relevant degree
• Demonstrated communication and leadership skills
• Above average computer skills (Excel, MS SharePoint, Power BI)
• Ability to communicate and gather input from various sources
• Ability to plan and organize work and document progress clearly and concisely
• Exceptional interpersonal skills and proven track record of adaptability, innovation, initiative, and integrity

Competencies

• Customer Focus — Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.
• Business Insight — Applying knowledge of business and the marketplace to advance the organization's goals.
• Cultivates Innovation — Creating new and better ways for the organization to be successful.
• Action Oriented — Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm.
• Ensures Accountability — Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.
• Drives Results — Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances.
• Collaborates — Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives.
• Values Difference — Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization.
• Communicates Effectively — Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
• Courage — Stepping up to address difficult issues, saying what needs to be said.
• Instills Trust — Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
• Situational Adaptability — Adapting approach and demeanor in real time to match the shifting demands of different situations.