Title: Sales Intern, Summer 2026
Location: Houston, TX
Who We Are: 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.
Why Kuraray: Founded in 1926, Kuraray is building a better tomorrow, today. Our team members are dedicated to expanding our business with committed professionals who share essential values such as integrity, excellence, teamwork, and accountability. As a part of Kuraray America, Inc., our team shares the advantages of working for the leader in specialty chemicals, resins, and fibers. Our international presence and resources allow us to be a world-leading innovator in the industries we service. Yet, despite our size, our people are more than just a number. As a new team member, you can expect to earn responsibility quickly. Our commitment to our people is visible in our comprehensive benefits package. As a Kuraray team member, you will have the opportunity to enjoy competitive salaries and benefits, incentive opportunities, and an excellent work environment.
Celebrating 100 Years of Innovation Be part of a historic milestone as we celebrate our 100th anniversary in 2026! Our centennial year will be filled with local and global events, storytelling campaigns, and sustainability initiatives that reflect Kuraray'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.
Internship Summary: The Sales Intern will support the internal sales team by assisting with data analysis, reporting, and process improvement initiatives. This role offers hands-on experience with Power BI and other tools to analyze sales performance, identify trends, and contribute to strategic decision-making. The intern will gain exposure to the day-to-day operations of a sales organization and develop a foundational understanding of sales analytics and customer engagement.
The paid internship will be 13 weeks in duration for the summer of 2026 with flexible start dates. Student interns must be able to work full-time. This is a hybrid position, generally working 2 days per week in the office or at a plant and 3 days remote. The internship will be split between a major project and daily tasks. Housing will not be provided for the internship.
Responsibilities: Assist with internal sales operations and administrative tasks; Analyze sales data using Power BI to identify patterns, trends, and opportunities; Support the preparation of sales reports and dashboards for leadership review; Collaborate with team members to improve data accuracy and reporting efficiency; Participate in meetings and contribute insights based on data analysis; Help identify areas for process improvement within the sales function; Gain exposure to CRM systems, sales workflows, and customer engagement strategies.
Minimum Qualifications: Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university; Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Data Analytics, Engineering, or a related field; Completed at least two years of college education before beginning internship; Strong analytical skills and attention to detail; Familiarity with Microsoft Excel; experience with Power BI is a plus; Excellent communication and teamwork abilities; Self-motivated with a willingness to learn and take initiative; Strong academic performance minimum 3.0/4.0 GPA and extracurricular achievement; Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy; Demonstrated communication and leadership skills; Exceptional interpersonal skills and proven track record of adaptability, innovation, initiative and integrity; Must have legal U.S. working authorization to participate in the program; Must successfully pass pre-employment screening process; Must be at least 18 years of age.
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.
Please apply online at: http://www.kuraray.us.com/careers/ Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. Kuraray America, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer disability/protected veteran status. No third-party candidates accepted.