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Research Associate Co-Op - ICPS

Entegris · Aurora, IL · $20.00–$30.00 an hour · Full time

Posted Sep 11, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about wet lab experiments you've run. What techniques are you most comfortable with?

What they are checking: Whether they have hands-on lab skills to execute experiments with little ramp-up time.

Tell me about a time you summarized complex data so others could understand it quickly.

What they are checking: Whether they can make data clear and readable, which the posting highlights.

Describe a time you found a better way to collect or organize data.

What they are checking: Whether they look for ways to improve lab processes, as the posting encourages.

What do you hope to learn during six months at Entegris?

What they are checking: Whether they have clear learning goals that show genuine interest in the work.

What would you do

How would you follow an experiment plan from a scientist but still spot when something looks wrong?

What they are checking: Whether they execute carefully while staying alert and speaking up about unexpected results.

A formulation experiment gives results different from what the scientist expected. What do you do?

What they are checking: Whether they check their work, report honestly, and offer possible explanations.

About the work

What do you know about chemical-mechanical planarization and the role slurries play in it?

What they are checking: Whether they have basic understanding of CMP and why slurry formulation affects results.

What statistical tools have you used to analyze lab data?

What they are checking: Whether they can apply basic statistics to tell real effects from noise.

How would you approach developing a new measurement method for a slurry property?

What they are checking: Whether they think about accuracy, repeatability, and validation when building a method.

How do you keep a shared lab clean, organized, and safe?

What they are checking: Whether they take lab maintenance and safety seriously, which the role includes.

Practice this interview out loud.

Offer builds a real interview for this exact role at Entegris from your resume and this job description, asks the questions one at a time, and tells you what landed. The first one is free.

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The full job description

As published by Entegris.

Job Title: Research Associate Co-Op - ICPS Job Description: Here at Entegris, we use advanced science to enable technologies that transform the world, and we are seeking employees who have the drive to continue the mission. The Role: Our site in Aurora, IL is seeking a Research Associate Co-Op - ICPS to join our team for the Spring 2027 season. This assignment is intended to be 6 months in duration. In this role, you will provide laboratory support and assist in the development and commercialization of commercially viable products for chemical-mechanical planarization (CMP) applications at Entegris. This role will be responsible for performing wet lab experiments, lab-based polishing experiments, product reliability tests, formulation experiments, fundamental wet-chemistry or instrument studies, data collection/summarization/analysis, and maintenance of the laboratory What You’ll Do: • Execute appropriate experiments in slurry and cleans formulations characterization and testing, measurement method development or process development. • Competently execute the experiment plans set by scientists and engineers in the team. • Accurately analyze experimental data by applying appropriate statistical tools; propose conclusions based on experience. • Summarize data into an impactful & readable format. • Occasionally seek new methods to improve data collection, analysis, and quality. What We Seek: • Some experience with hands-on wet chemistry techniques and instrumentation for characterization • Proven track record of safe laboratory practices and methodology • Hands-on experience in particle and surface science analysis techniques such as PSD, zeta potential, contact angle, and thin-film measurements. • Self-motivated and driven to succeed; demonstration of flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced work environment; Good oral and written communications skills • Knowledge of MS Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams) and familiar with basic statistical analysis using Excel, Minitab, JMP, etc. • Able and willing to work in a laboratory environment at least 80% of the time Desired Major(s) & Graduation Year: • Working towards a BA/BS or MS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Material Science, or related field • Expected graduation year in 2027 or 2028 Eligibility: • Must be a currently enrolled student • Available to work 40 hours a week, M-F (8a-5p) beginning in January through June • Must be familiar with the university’s requirements to participate in a co-op program • Entegris is not currently hiring candidates for co-ops/internships who will need, now or at any time in the future, Entegris sponsorship through the H1-B lottery. PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: Must be able to work in a lab environment, wear PPE, and occasionally lift ~40 lb. WHY WORK AT ENTEGRIS? Lead. Inspire. Innovate. Define Your Future. Not everyone who works for a global company shares the same background, experiences and perspectives. We leverage the differences of our employees to bring new ideas to the table. Every employee throughout the company is encouraged to share input on projects and initiatives. Our decision-making process is truly a collaborative effort as we realize there are leaders at every level of the organization. We put our values at the core of how we operate as an organization — not just when it’s convenient, but in a lasting and meaningful way. We want the time and energy you spend here to have a positive impact on your life inside and outside of the office. WHAT WE OFFER • Our total rewards package goes above and beyond just a paycheck. Whether you’re looking to build your career, improve your health, or protect your wealth, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals. • Compensation: $20-$30/hour range with actual pay dependent on candidate overall skills for the role • Values-driven culture with colleagues that rally around People, Accountability, Creativity and Excellence • Entegris does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need Entegris immigration sponsorship (e.g., H1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) now or in the future. • At Entegris we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees and applicants. Our policy is to recruit, hire, train, and reward employees for their individual abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital or military status.

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