Continuous Improvement Intern

Position Overview

The CI intern supports the deployment of Lean/6S principles, standardized work, and data-driven problem solving across Pultrusion, Encapsulation, Conforming (1 & 2), Stranding, and Shipping/Receiving. This role executes hands-on improvement activities (5S blitzes, time studies, setup reduction, scrap tracking), collects and validates production data, and partners with Process Engineers, Supervisors, and Operators to drive measurable gains in safety, quality, delivery, and cost.

Essential Functions

- Help tidy and organize work areas, add clear labels/signs, and check back to keep them neat.

- Set up and maintain tool boards so every tool has a labeled home.

- Time simple tasks with a stopwatch, sketch how parts/people move, spot slow-downs, and share easy ideas to speed things up.

- Watch how machines are changed over between jobs, suggest small fixes to make it quicker, and update step-by-step checklists.

- Record basic numbers (pieces made, time per job, scrap).

- Join improvement workshops, note action items, owners, and due dates, and follow up until they’re finished.

- Update daily whiteboards with results, flag anything off-track, and let the team know so it gets attention.

- Work with maintenance to keep areas organized, common spare parts easy to find, and quickly alert the team if a machine goes down.

- Create short “how-to” pages with pictures so teammates can learn tasks quickly (including simple system tips).

- Support safety basics

- Help count parts, label shelves/bins, and make sure older parts get used before newer ones.

- Take before-and-after photos, make simple layout sketches, and put together short summaries of improvements.

Other Skills/Abilities

- Safety Knowledge: A basic understanding of workplace safety regulations and risk management principles.

- Communication Skills: Ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and staff, ensuring clarity in safety instructions and reports.

- Problem-Solving: Ability to assess safety issues and propose practical solutions.

- Technical Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

- Attention to Detail: Ability to spot and address potential safety hazards quickly

Requirements

- High school diploma or GED required

- Prior experience OSHA standards is a plus

- Strong organizational and record-keeping skills

- Effective written and verbal communication skills.

- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and operate material handling equipment

Training and Experience

- Computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word/Excel)

- Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and Kaizen experience is a plus

- Forklift certification is a plus

Work Environment

Manufacturing environment with exposure to machinery, noise and varying temperatures. Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) as required. Fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.