R&D Intern - February 2027
€650 per month
Work Arrangement
Office Days per Week: 4 days
Key Skills
Job Description
- Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Duration: Internship (minimum 6 months)
About Hunter Douglas
Hunter Douglas is the global market leader in window coverings and architectural products. With a strong focus on innovation, operational excellence, and collaboration, we are committed to delivering high-quality solutions while continuously improving how we work across our global supply chain.
The Role
Are you interested in combining engineering, design and automation to solve a real business challenge?
As our R&D Intern – Design Automation, you will work on an innovation project focused on automating the creation of HeartFelt ceiling layouts based on architects’ briefs, including the generation of associated material lists.
You will investigate existing technologies, AI tools and automation solutions, assess different approaches and help develop a prototype or proof of concept. Your work will contribute to making the ceiling design process faster, more standardised and easier to use for both internal teams and customers.
You will work closely with colleagues across R&D, Product Management, Engineering and Design, with exposure to IT and Digitalisation stakeholders where relevant.
Key Responsibilities
- Analyse the current process for creating HeartFelt layouts and material lists and identify opportunities for automation.
- Gather requirements from relevant teams and translate these into potential solutions.
- Research and evaluate existing software, AI tools and automation technologies for layout generation.
- Assess the feasibility of developing an internal solution versus using an existing external tool.
- Support the development of a prototype or proof-of-concept solution.
- Help create standardised design rules and templates for HeartFelt and other ceiling systems.
- Explore methods for automatically generating material lists from ceiling layouts.
- Test and validate potential solutions for accuracy and usability.
- Document your findings and identify potential implementation opportunities.
- Present your project outcomes and recommendations to key stakeholder
Who You Are
- Currently studying towards a degree in Engineering, Product Design, Industrial Design, Architecture, Building or Civil Engineering, or a related field.Has strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Comfortable interpreting technical drawings, layouts and architectural specifications.Has good knowledge of Microsoft Excel and working with data.
- Has strong attention to detail and enjoys working with technical information.
- Can communicate effectively and work with different stakeholders.Is comfortable working independently and managing project milestones.Is curious about how technology, automation and AI can improve existing processes.Has experience with CAD software or similar design tools. This is an advantage, but not a requirement.
- Fluency in English (Dutch is a big plus)
What You Bring
- Strong analytical and quantitative thinking
-
Willingness to learn
- Collaborative mindset and ability to work with diverse teams
- Ability to prioritize, manage tasks, and meet deadlines
- Structured and detail-oriented approach
What We Offer
- A hands-on R&D internship built around a real innovation challenge.
- The opportunity to work at the intersection of engineering, design, automation and digitalisation.
- Ownership of a project with the potential to create long-term business value.Collaboration with R&D, Product Management, Engineering and Design teams.
- The opportunity to research new technologies and turn your findings into a practical prototype.
- An international environment where you can develop both your technical and project-management skills.
- Hybrid working arrangement: 4 days work for the office, 1 day work from home
- Travel compensation
- Monthly allowance of €650
Apply now!
Core Responsibilities
Analyze the current HeartFelt ceiling layout and material-list process, identify automation opportunities, and evaluate existing software, AI tools, and other technologies. Help develop and test a prototype, establish design rules and templates, document findings, and present recommendations to stakeholders.
Requirements
The candidate should be studying engineering, product or industrial design, architecture, building or civil engineering, or a related field, and have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret technical drawings and architectural specifications. Good Excel and data skills, effective communication, independent project management, and curiosity about automation and AI are expected; CAD experience is an advantage, and English fluency is required.
Benefits
- Travel Compensation
- Hybrid Working Arrangement
- Hands-On R&D Internship
- International Work Environment
- Technical and Project-Management Development
About Hunter Douglas - Talent Programs
Industry: Consumer Goods
Company size: 10,001+ employees
Hunter Douglas is the world’s leading manufacturer of window coverings and a major producer of architectural products, trusted in millions of homes and commercial buildings worldwide. Driven by a commitment to innovation, we develop high-quality, proprietary solutions that combine design, performance, and sustainability - continually raising the standard for growth, efficiency, and customer experience across our industry. Innovation at the Window Innovation has defined Hunter Douglas since the creation of the aluminium blind in 1946. Today, our award-winning solutions enhance everyday living through intelligent light control, energy efficiency, motorisation, child safety, and acoustic comfort. By combining advanced technology with exceptional design, we create products that customers trust and love. Architectural Innovation For over 60 years, we have partnered with the architecture and design community to bring ambitious ideas to life. Our solutions - including sun control systems, suspended ceilings, ventilated facades, and translucent materials - balance aesthetics, comfort, and sustainability while meeting real-world challenges with precision. Our Culture Built on an entrepreneurial foundation, our culture is guided by the belief that “Business is People.” We foster an environment of transparency, accountability, and merit-based growth, where individuals are empowered to think entrepreneurially and take ownership. Across disciplines, our teams collaborate to continuously improve - driving innovation, performance, and long-term success.