Job Summary
The Continuous Improvement Intern supports initiatives focused on improving operational efficiency and effectiveness across the organization. This role helps drive “outside-the-box” thinking and encourages innovative approaches to problem-solving. The intern will learn to identify wasteful actions, analyze processes, and support efforts to streamline workflows. The intern will gain hands-on experience using data and information to increase the value of work by identifying improvement opportunities, supporting root cause analysis, and contributing to process optimization initiatives.
Job Duties
- Learn to evaluate internal processes and help determine the current state through time study, value added analysis, spaghetti diagrams, Yamazumi, waste hunt and theoretical headcount determination.
- Understand the importance of data collection and “go and see” attitude.
- Compile the information to paint a picture of the current state.
- Assist the CI department in identification of opportunities. Work in a team to improve efficiency using the current state information as the driver.
- Maintain open and effective communication.
- Write standard work and SOPs
- Have open mind, positive attitude, and ability to create excitement.
- Ability to trial, learn and determine best course of action.
- Complete all necessary documents fully and accurately.
- Adhere to 5S standards (e.g., maintain cleanliness of work area, etc.)
- Adhere to all Safety, Environmental and Quality policies and procedures
- Perform other duties as assigned
Experience and Education
- Actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or related field. Must be junior/senior classification.
- Self-motivated and attention to detail
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Powerpoint, Excel, Word), AutoCad/Solidworks
- Perform work under direct supervision
- Handle basic issues and problems and refer more complex issues to higher-level staff
Competencies/ Skills
- Possess strong work ethics, ability to work independently and make good decisions
- Have a strong desire to see and influence change
- Must be mechanically inclined
- Knowledge of/experience with electronic test equipment
- Familiarity with common tools
- Understanding of manufacturing processes
- Problem-solving skills leading to reasonable resolution
- Project management skills
Skills Required
- Actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field
- Must be classified as a junior or senior student
- Self-motivated with strong attention to detail
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, PowerPoint, Excel, and Word
- Proficiency with AutoCAD or SolidWorks
- Ability to work under direct supervision
- Ability to handle basic issues and refer complex issues to higher-level staff
- Strong work ethic and ability to work independently
- Ability to make sound decisions and influence change
- Mechanical aptitude
- Knowledge of or experience with electronic test equipment
- Familiarity with common tools
- Understanding of manufacturing processes
- Problem-solving skills
- Project management skills
What We Do
National Material L.P. is a privately owned industrial metals supplier serving customers worldwide. Founded in 1964, it has expanded into more than 16 business units and operates across steel, stainless steel and alloys, raw-material trading, aluminum, and related operations. The company serves diverse markets including automotive, aerospace, agriculture, defense, construction, energy, heavy truck, industrial equipment, appliances, and steel mills and foundries.
