Packaging Intern

About the role

The Process Improvement Intern will work directly with the Process Improvement Manager in a corrugated packaging manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on exposure to operational excellence, Lean manufacturing systems, quality management systems, production analytics, and cross-functional collaboration. The intern will observe, support, and participate in real-time improvement initiatives across corrugator and converting operations. This is not a clerical position and will be embedded on the production floor and in data analysis activities.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the internship, the intern should understand:

• Basic corrugated manufacturing flow (paper roll → corrugator → converting → shipping)
• Key production KPIs (waste %, run rate, unplanned downtime, setup time)
• Fundamentals of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement
• How quality systems integrate into daily operations
• How data drives operational decision-making in manufacturing

Responsibilities

• Shadow the Process Improvement Manager during: Daily production meetings, Gemba walks, Downtime reviews, Quality investigations, Cross-functional improvement discussions
• Assist in collecting and organizing operational data (waste %, downtime minutes, setup time, throughput, etc.)
• Support analysis of machine performance across corrugator and converting equipment
• Help build and update dashboards in Excel or Google Sheets
• Observe and document standard work processes
• Participate in Lean initiatives (5S audits, DMS boards, layered process audits, etc.)
• Assist with development of work instructions and visual management tools
• Support root cause analysis efforts using structured problem-solving methods
• Prepare summary reports or one-page presentations on assigned projects

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Business, or related field
• Strong analytical mindset
• Proficient in Excel or Google Sheets
• Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment
• Strong communication skills
• Willingness to ask questions and engage on the production floor

Requirements

• Ability to walk production floor for extended periods
• Ability to wear required PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe footwear)
• Maintain professional conduct on the production floor
• Respect safety protocols at all times
• Demonstrate curiosity and initiative
• Maintain confidentiality of operational data