Lean Manufacturing Co-Op (Summer/Fall 2027)

About the role

Are you ready to explore the world of aerospace and defense? Do you want to learn from and collaborate with some of the greatest minds in the industry? At RTX, our internships, co-ops and full-time careers provide an exceptional foundation to work on complex problems, advance your skills and create a safer, more connected world. Discover opportunities to make a difference at RTX. This position is based at the Rockford, IL plant and is classified as an Onsite role.

Responsibilities

• Support the Rockford, IL plant in planning, coordinating, and executing continuous improvement (CI) initiatives and engagements.
• Recommend and implement process and procedural changes to improve cost, efficiency, and quality.
• Analyze key process indicators to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.
• Develop and manage quality programs to assist in reengineering processes and ensuring product quality.
• Facilitate and support CI tools and events, including time observations, process and value stream mapping, standard work development, process certification, PFMEA, root cause problem solving, and event execution.

Requirements

• Actively pursuing a Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Operations, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Business, or a related STEM major through the completion of the co‑op session.
• U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Qualifications

• Experience with 3D printing.
• Demonstrated experience leading in a team setting.
• Prior RTX internship, co‑op, or work experience.

Skills

• Process Improvement Techniques: hands‑on experience with CI methodologies, including value stream mapping, process mapping, and root cause problem‑solving to enhance efficiency and quality.
• Project Management: skills in planning, coordinating, and executing CI initiatives, managing pre‑ and post‑event activities for successful outcomes.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: working with teams across the organization and gaining insights into interdepartmental operations and contributions.
• Change Management: learning strategies to facilitate process changes and ensure smooth implementation while helping teams adapt to new practices.
• Lean Manufacturing Practices: practical knowledge in lean principles such as standard work, PFMEA, and other methodologies to streamline operations and minimize waste.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
• Short‑term and long‑term disability.
• 401(k) match.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Flexible work schedules.
• Employee assistance program.
• Employee Scholar Program.
• Parental leave.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Annual short‑term and/or long‑term incentive compensation programs (eligibility dependent on position level and collective‑bargaining coverage).

Pay

The salary range for this role is 37,000 USD – 82,000 USD.