Operational Excellence Intern

SUMMARY: We are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Operational Excellence Intern to join our dynamic team. This intern will play a critical role in supporting process improvement initiatives across the organization. If you enjoy diving into data, managing timelines, and calculating cost savings, you’ll be involved in real-world improvement projects that have a visible impact.

WAGE TYPE: Hourly

FLSA Exemption: Non-Exempt

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Build relationships across the organization that can be leveraged to implement improvements
• Support the Operational Excellence Manager in executing the company’s Productivity Plan.
• Assist in managing project timelines, deliverables, and milestones using project management tools.
• Collect and analyze data related to production processes, efficiency, and costs.
• Conduct Bill of Materials (BOM) analysis to identify opportunities for cost reduction or process optimization.
• Support savings calculations by developing financial models and tracking results.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Engineering, Planning, and Production.
• Perform on-site evaluations and support implementation of process improvements — this role includes time on the shop floor.
• Help document standard work, SOPs, and continuous improvement outcomes.
• Present findings and updates during team meetings and improvement events.
• Other duties as assigned aligned with the organization’s Operational Excellence goals.
• Could potentially handle hazardous waste in containerizing, transporting, testing, or other assigned duties.
• Environmental responsibility is our commitment to our communities.
• Proper disposal of waste such as recyclables, standard waste, hazardous waste, etc. is expected
• Any other tasks as required fulfilling Lincoln Industries' Beliefs and Drivers.

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE:

• Reports to: Operational Excellence Manager

QUALIFICATIONS: The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required.  Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be substituted for the expected levels of education and experience required.

Education and/or Experience:

Expected: Currently pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations Management, Business Analytics, or a related field. 

Preferred:

• Exposure to Lean, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement methodologies.

• Previous project management or manufacturing experience (classroom or real-world).

• Familiarity with Bill of Materials (BOM), ERP systems, or value stream mapping.

Communication Skills:

• Must be able to read, write and comprehend the English language.

Other Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable working in both office and shop-floor environments.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and data visualization tools (e.g., Power BI).
• Solid communication and interpersonal skills.
• Highly self-motivated, organized, and willing to learn.