At ABB, we help industries run leaner and cleaner—and every person here makes that happen. You’ll be empowered to lead, supported to grow, and proud of the impact we create together. Join us and help run what runs the world.
This position reports to:
Quality & Product Engineering Manager__
ABB Garbagnate Monastero is seeking a motivated Thesis Student to join our team. You will play a key role in extending the Quality Wins (QWins) operating system to multiple production lines, with a focus on implementing 5S principles and defining critical quality metrics such as Gauge R&R and Process Capability
The work model for the role is #LI-Hybrid - full-time with possibility to get days for exams or meeting with university tutors.
This role is contributing to the EL/SP/Hub Eur Manufacturing Unit Enclosure in Garbagnate Monastero LC Italy.
Key Responsibilities & Implementation Activities
Phase 1: Assessment & Planning
- Conduct baseline assessment of current production lines and manufacturing processes
- Identify improvement opportunities aligned with QWins objectives
- Develop implementation roadmap with timelines and milestones
Phase 2: 5S Implementation
- Lead 5S implementation workshops on assigned production lines (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain)
- Document best practices and standardize 5S procedures across lines
Phase 3: Quality Metrics Definition & Analysis
- Define and establish Gauge R&R studies for critical measurement systems
- Calculate Process Capability (Cpk, Pp, Ppm) for key quality characteristics
- Identify variation sources and root causes affecting process capability
Phase 4: Problem Solving & Continuous Improvement
- Implement corrective actions to improve process performance
- Track KPIs: OEE, defect rates, cycle time, and cost reduction
Requirements
- Bachelor's or Master's degree student in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
- Lean & Process Improvement: Basic knowledge of Lean Six Sigma fundamentals (DMAIC, VSM, Kaizen), 5S, and structured problem‑solving tools (FMEA, root cause analysis, 5‑Why).
- Operations & Quality: Understanding of manufacturing operations, production flows, OEE, and key quality metrics, including statistical quality concepts (e.g., process capability).
- Data & Analysis: Proficiency in Excel with basic statistical skills; Power BI knowledge is considered a plus.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset with passion for operational excellence and continuous improvement.
- Ability to work independently and as part of cross-functional teams.
- Willingness to spend time on the production floor.
What's in it for you?
Benefits – You can count on:
- Hands-on experience with ABB's globally recognized Quality Wins operating system
- Mentorship from experienced Operations Excellence and CI professionals
- Exposure to modern manufacturing techniques and industry best practices
- Access to ABB's comprehensive training resources and certifications
- Opportunity to contribute to real manufacturing improvements with measurable impact
- Flexibility and work-life balance: Flexible working hours, hybrid work options, and a strong focus on work-life integration.
- Meal allowance: Access to canteen
More about us
ABB Smart Power provides energy distribution solutions for data centers, industrial and manufacturing plants, critical infrastructure and commercial buildings. The Division’s technical teams work closely with industry partners, delivering advanced solutions that support rapid growth, energy transition, and sustainability objectives. The Division’s portfolio includes industrial circuit breakers, enclosures, low-voltage systems, motor starting applications, safety devices like switches and relays. Its Power Protection unit supports the world’s largest data center companies with advanced energy-efficient UPS solutions. The Division’s ABB Ability™ Energy Manager provides a scalable, easy-to-use platform that helps organizations save energy and reduce CO2 emissions.
Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That's why we welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences.
Ready to make an impact?
Building a cleaner, smarter future takes all kinds of minds: the curious, the courageous, and the creative. That's why we welcome people from all backgrounds and experiences.
Ready to make an impact?
Apply today or visit https://www.abb.com to learn more about the impact of our solutions across the globe.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's or Master's degree student in Engineering, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, or related field
- Basic knowledge of Lean Six Sigma fundamentals (DMAIC, VSM, Kaizen), 5S, and structured problem-solving tools
- Understanding of manufacturing operations and key quality metrics, including statistical quality concepts
- Proficiency in Excel with basic statistical skills; Power BI knowledge is considered a plus
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset
ABB Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about ABB and has not been reviewed or approved by ABB.
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Healthcare Strength — Healthcare coverage is described as comprehensive, with medical, dental, vision, mental health support, and disability and life insurance included. Immediate eligibility in some roles reinforces the sense of dependable core coverage.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — Time-off offerings are described as broad, including paid holidays, sick days, volunteer time, sabbaticals, and, in some cases, 25 days of PTO. Flexible scheduling and remote-work options add to perceived time-off and flexibility value.
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Retirement Support — Retirement benefits are positioned as robust, including a 401(k) with company contributions or matching and, in some cases, profit sharing or pension savings. Stock purchase/share acquisition programs complement longer-term savings options.
ABB Insights
What We Do
ABB is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB’s success is driven by about 110,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com
