NPI Project Intern (New Product Introduction)
Position Summary
The NPI Project Intern will support the planning, design, and launch of new production processes and equipment within a manufacturing facility currently under development. This role will assist with facility layout, product flow, equipment placement, and documentation to ensure efficient, safe, and scalable operations. The intern will work closely with engineering, maintenance, and operations teams to translate designs and concepts into practical manufacturing solutions.
This position provides hands-on experience in manufacturing engineering, facility startup, and new product/process implementation.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist with facility and production floor layout design using CAD software
- Create and update drawings, floor plans, and equipment layouts
- Interpret and work from blueprints, schematics, and technical drawings
- Support product and material flow analysis to improve efficiency and reduce waste
- Help develop line layouts, workstation configurations, and process flow diagrams
- Participate in equipment installation, setup, and commissioning activities
- Assist with time studies, process observations, and continuous improvement projects
- Create and maintain documentation including SOPs, work instructions, and project records
- Coordinate with engineering, maintenance, and operations during project execution
- Support 5S, safety, and lean manufacturing initiatives
- Perform other project-related tasks as assigned
Qualifications
Education
- Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Manufacturing Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Engineering Technology
- or related field
Experience/Skills
- Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar)
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Understanding of basic manufacturing processes and equipment
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
- Strong attention to detail and organization
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment
Preferred
- Exposure to manufacturing or production environments
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing or process improvement concepts
- Experience with facility layout or workflow analysis
Work Environment
- Combination of office and manufacturing floor environment
- Frequent walking, standing, and observing production areas
- May require PPE in production areas (safety glasses, steel-toe shoes, etc.)
Learning Opportunities
- Facility startup and manufacturing design
- Production line development
- Equipment installation and commissioning
- Real-world engineering project management
- Cross-functional collaboration
Skills Required
- Pursuing or recently completed degree in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Industrial Engineering, Engineering Technology, or related field
- Experience with CAD software (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar)
- Ability to read and interpret blueprints and technical drawings
- Understanding of basic manufacturing processes and equipment
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Strong attention to detail and organization
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment
- Exposure to manufacturing or production environments
- Knowledge of lean manufacturing or process improvement concepts
- Experience with facility layout or workflow analysis
What We Do
Vital Chemicals USA LLC is a global leader in materials technology and a leading provider of high-quality chemical solutions in the United States. The company specializes in the production and distribution of specialty chemicals and rare-metals-based materials, employing a 'Source to Solutions' approach. Its capabilities support diverse sectors including semiconductors, energy, automotive, electronics, and optics, with a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability.
