Lean Waste Reduction Engineering Intern

This is an on-site position located in Carol Stream, IL.
 

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly motivated and analytical Lean Waste Reduction Engineer Intern to join our Operations and Operations Engineering Team. In this position, you will support the implementation of lean principles across electro-mechanical assemblies, helping reduce waste, improve flow, and support overall operational efficiency. This role will involve hands-on process observation, data collection, mapping, and the application of Lean tools to identify and eliminate non–value-added activities.

This internship is ideal for a Junior, Senior, or Graduate student studying Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline with a strong interest in Lean manufacturing, process optimization, and continuous improvement.

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Essential Role Responsibilities

● Assist in implementing Lean principles across electro-mechanical assembly processes to identify, measure, and eliminate waste.

● Observe and document current workflows, material movement, and assembly sequences to identify opportunities for improvement.

● Conduct time studies, gather performance data, and analyze bottlenecks or inefficiencies within assembly processes.

● Support the development of value stream maps, process flow diagrams, and standardized work documentation.

● Collaborate with assembly operators, engineers, and supervisors to gather feedback, validate findings, and implement practical improvements.

● Participate in Lean initiatives such as 5S, Kaizen events, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement activities.

● Help propose and pilot solutions aimed at reducing waste, improving assembly flow, and enhancing ergonomics or efficiency.

● Assist in creating training materials, visual controls, and documentation to sustain improvements.

● Partner with other department Team Members to support and complete various responsibilities, projects, and/or tasks as necessary.
 

Qualifications

Essential Skills & Role Qualifications:

● Foundational understanding of Lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, VSM, waste identification, standard work).

● Strong analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.

● Comfortable working in a hands-on manufacturing environment and interacting with cross-functional teams.

● Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

● Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); experience with process mapping tools is a plus.

● Detail-oriented self-starter with the ability to take initiative and deliver high-quality results consistently.

● Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team environment.

Essential Education & Experience:
● Must be enrolled in an accredited university/college program as a Junior, Senior, or Graduate student majoring in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a similar field.
● High school interns will be considered based on relevant skills and interests.

 

Benefits we offer:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Retirement Plans: 401(k) plan with company match to help you plan for your future.
• Employee Wellness Programs: Access to wellness programs, onsite gym, Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life Insurance: Basic and supplemental life insurance options.
• Disability Insurance: Short- and long-term disability coverage.
• Paid Time Off (PTO)