The Operational Excellence (OpEx) / Continuous Improvement Intern will support performance improvement, compliance, and operational excellence initiatives within the ARC / Hexcel production environment. This role partners closely with Production, Quality Assurance, Quality Control, Supply Chain, and Engineering to identify operational gaps, eliminate waste, strengthen process capability, and support the site in meeting regulatory, customer, and business requirements.
The intern will apply Lean, Six Sigma, and data‑driven problem‑solving methodologies to improve throughput, reduce defects, and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement across the site.
Key Responsibilities
Continuous Improvement & Lean Deployment
- Support and facilitate Lean initiatives including 5S, standard work, visual management, and value stream mapping across multiple factory areas.
- Identify production bottlenecks and assist in implementing sustainable solutions to improve flow and reduce cycle time.
- Conduct time studies, process mapping, waste analysis, and capacity evaluations to optimize production performance.
At Hexcel, we’re not just offering a typical internship; we're providing an immersive journey in the aerospace and defense industry where you’ll tackle exciting projects, network with industry leaders, and gain valuable skills. Join us and discover the difference a hands-on experience can make in shaping your future and where you can make a meaningful impact.
ARC Technologies LLC, a Hexcel company, is the leading manufacturer of radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) absorbing materials for defense and wireless applications worldwide and part of Hexcel, a global leader in advanced composites technology.
Our Amesbury, MA location is seeking an Operational Excellence / Continuous Improvement Intern
Process Standardization & Documentation
- Support the development and refinement of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and work instructions to ensure clarity, consistency, and audit readiness.
- Assist in creating visual aids, job aids, and training materials for production personnel.
Training & CI Culture Support
- Assist with coaching technicians on Lean principles, problem‑solving techniques, and best practices.
- Participate in Gemba walks, tier meetings, and continuous improvement workshops.
- Promote a culture of accountability and proactive issue identification.
Cost Optimization & Value Creation
- Support identification and delivery of OpEx savings through scrap reduction, yield improvement, labor optimization, and process efficiency.
- Contribute to efforts aimed at reducing cost per unit through improved throughput and reduced rework.
Basic Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED (required)
- Strong interest in continuous improvement and operational excellence
- Basic knowledge or coursework in Lean and/or Six Sigma
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to obtain a security clearance
This position is restricted to U.S. citizens due to U.S. government contract regulations that require the employment of only persons who are U.S. citizens. Hexcel (NYSE: HXL) is a global leader in advanced composites technology, a leading producer of carbon fiber, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry.
Hexcel is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, physical or mental disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected class.
Skills Required
- High school diploma or GED
- Strong interest in continuous improvement and operational excellence
- Basic knowledge or coursework in Lean and/or Six Sigma
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to obtain a security clearance
Hexcel Corporation Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Hexcel Corporation and has not been reviewed or approved by Hexcel Corporation.
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Fair & Transparent Compensation — Pay is often characterized as competitive or good for the area, with overtime and bonuses contributing to a stronger overall cash picture. Compensation is also described as varying by role and location, but it still stands out as a perceived strength in many operational settings.
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Retirement Support — Retirement offerings include a 401(k) with employer matching and access to stock-related programs such as an employee stock purchase plan. This supports a total-rewards story that goes beyond base pay for eligible roles.
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Inclusive Benefits Coverage — Core coverage is described as broadly available to U.S. employees, including medical, prescription, dental, and vision plans alongside life and disability protections. Tuition reimbursement and voluntary insurance options further widen the practical usefulness of the package.
Hexcel Corporation Insights
What We Do
As a leading producer of carbon fiber reinforcements and resin systems, and the world leader in honeycomb manufacturing for the commercial aerospace industry, Hexcel is creating a better world for us all through lightweight solutions.
