Operational Excellence Engineer Intern

Job Title: Operational Excellence Engineer Intern
Location: Durham, NC 27703
Duration: 3+ Months 

Shift: Schedule: 9 am to 5 pm Monday - Friday, On site.

Position Overview:
The Operational Excellence Engineer Intern will support the OpEx Engineering team in driving Lean transformation and quality improvement initiatives in manufacturing. The role focuses on implementing strategies and incorporating principles, practices, and tools into manufacturing processes. Success in this position requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, adaptability, and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
 
Key Responsibilities:
Support the Manufacturing Manager in implementing Lean transformation and continuous improvement initiatives to enhance safety, quality, delivery, inventory, and productivity across the manufacturing organization:

• Participate in Gemba walks, kaizens, and support employees on continuous improvement, standard work, flow, takt time attainment, and problem-solving for abnormalities causing takt misses.
• Develop and improve assembly visual work aids.
• Conduct cycle time analyses, time studies, line balance improvements, and workplace enhancements.
• Support lean disciplines and 5-S initiatives for internal processes.
• Assist in on-site audits.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and cost reduction projects at the site.
• Understand and appreciate manufacturing demand and prioritization.
• Use Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, Outlook) to support project tasks.

 
Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, or related field.
• 0–2 years of related work experience.
• Excellent analytical, technical, and problem-solving skills.
• Related project work or internship experience is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; able to work across multiple departments.
• Strong multi-tasking and time management abilities.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Knowledge of Lean Manufacturing concepts and continuous improvement tools is a plus.

 
Work Environment & Physical Demands:

• Work primarily in a controlled environment with occasional changes in temperature and noise levels common to a high-tech assembly setting.
• May involve standing, sitting, and walking through assembly, testing, or machine shop areas, with exposure to common hazards.
• Ability to carry, lift, and push/pull up to 30 lbs frequently and up to 50 lbs occasionally.
• Occasional weekend and overtime work may be required.
• Compliance with COVID-19 safety protocols, including face coverings, while on-site.