Lean Manufacturing Intern (Spring 2026)

APPLICANT MUST LIVE IN ILLINOIS AND BE ABLE TO COMMUTE TO ADDISON, IL. DURING THE SPRING

About Us:

SWD Inc. opened for business in March 1980 with three employees in a 9,000 sq. ft. leased facility and began black oxiding, cleaning, and pickling operations with used equipment. In late 1980, the company began passivating stainless steel and in 1981 purchased Fastener Sorting Corporation. Today, a recognized leader in the Metal Finishing and Fastener Sorting fields, SWD Inc. has over 200 employees and runs three shifts per day in its 250,000 sq. ft. facility just west of Chicago in Addison, Illinois.

Note: SWD is a Drug-Free workplace. All job offers are contingent on successful completion of a Background Check, Drug Screen, and Pre-Employment Physical.

What We're Seeking:

SWD Inc., located in Addison, IL. is looking for a Spring 2026Lean Manufacturing Intern! We are looking for current students pursuing a Bachelors' degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Industrial or Process Engineering, with an interest in leanmanufacturing and process improvement. This internship will be 100% on-site in Addison, IL. You must be able to commute to our facility. This internship is PAID at $18.00 per hour.

This internship will span over the Spring semester (January- May). However, we are flexible on the starting and ending dates depending on your classes and schedule. Hours are flexible! We know you have classes and homework to complete. Hours will range between 15-30 hours per week, Monday-Friday.

Responsibilities/Duties:

- Support 5S actions and data collection efforts

- Assist in process mapping and value stream analysis

- Assist in identifying and implementing Lean tools and techniques

- Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations and maintenance

- Conduct research and analysis to support project objectives

Qualifications:

- Microsoft Office Suite skills

- Understanding of PC operating systems

- Experience with automation. analytics or AI is a plus

- Detail oriented

- Ability to prioritize well

- Strong follow-through with tasks and projects

- A self-starter who’s motivated by serving others

- Strong communication skills, both verbal and written

- Enjoys partnering with others to accomplish tasks

- Interest in learning more about the service manufacturing industry

- Regularly required to lift or move up to 40 pounds

- Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-speed environment

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