Operational Excellence / Lean Intern

Position Summary


Operational Excellence Intern

Position Summary

The Operational Excellence Intern supports continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. This role works with operations, supply chain, and cross-functional teams to analyze processes, eliminate waste, improve quality, and enhance overall efficiency using Lean and Operational Excellence (OpEx) methodologies.

Key Responsibilities

Process Analysis & Improvement

• Assist in mapping current-state processes (e.g., value stream mapping, process flow diagrams).
• Collect and analyze operational data (cycle time, throughput, defects, downtime, etc.).
• Identify waste (TIMWOODS: Transportation, Inventory, Motion, Waiting, Overproduction, Overprocessing, Defects, Skills) and propose improvement opportunities.
• Support development of future-state process designs under guidance of Lean/OpEx leaders.

Continuous Improvement Projects

• Participate in Kaizen events, Rapid Improvement Workshops, and other CI projects.
• Help prepare project charters, problem statements, and root cause analyses (5 Whys, Fishbone/Ishikawa).
• Track project actions, timelines, and results; support benefit validation (cost, quality, delivery, safety, morale).
• Assist in standardizing improved processes and documenting new work standards and SOPs.

Lean / OpEx Tools & Methods

• Apply basic Lean tools such as 5S, visual management, standard work, Kanban, and mistake-proofing (Poka-Yoke).
• Support implementation of performance boards, KPI dashboards, and tiered daily management routines.
• Help maintain and update continuous improvement toolkits, templates, and playbooks.

Data & Reporting

• Gather operational metrics from systems and shop-floor/office sources.
• Support analysis using Excel, BI tools, or statistical software as appropriate.
• Prepare concise reports, presentations, and visuals to communicate insights and project progress to stakeholders.

Stakeholder Support & Change Management

• Shadow frontline teams and process owners to understand daily operations and pain points.
• Assist in delivering training materials, quick-reference guides, and workshop content related to Lean/OpEx.
• Support change management activities (communication, feedback collection, adoption tracking).

Qualifications

Education

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field.

Knowledge & Skills

• Basic understanding of Lean principles and Operational Excellence concepts (e.g., PDCA, DMAIC, Kaizen).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; comfortable working with data and metrics.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word; exposure to data visualization or BI tools is a plus.
• Solid written and verbal communication skills; able to present findings clearly and succinctly.
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and interact with personnel at different levels.

Preferred / Nice-to-Have

• Coursework or project experience in process improvement, statistics, or quality management.
• Familiarity with process mapping tools (e.g., Visio, Lucidchart) or project management tools.
• Experience in a manufacturing, logistics, operations, or service environment (internships, co-op, or projects).

Competencies

• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Curious, questioning, and eager to find better ways of working.
• Attention to Detail: Careful and systematic in data collection, analysis, and documentation.
• Ownership & Initiative: Willing to take responsibility for tasks and follow through to completion.
• Teamwork: Works effectively with diverse groups and respects frontline knowledge.
• Adaptability: Comfortable in changing environments and able to manage multiple priorities.

Learning Outcomes

During this internship, the Operations Intern can expect to:

• Gain practical experience applying Lean and OpEx tools in real operations.
• Learn how to structure and execute continuous improvement projects.
• Develop skills in data-driven decision-making and operational problem solving.
• Build experience communicating with stakeholders and supporting change initiatives.

Conditions of Employment


This position is subject to meeting U.S. export compliance and/or U.S. Government contracting citizenship eligibility requirements.

Equal Employment Opportunity


Parker is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer. Parker is committed to ensuring equal employment opportunities for all job applicants and employees. Employment decisions are based upon job related reasons regardless of race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status protected by law. However, U.S. Citizenship, Permanent Residency or other appropriate status is required for certain positions, in accord with U.S. import & export regulations.

("Minority / Female / Disability / Veteran / VEVRAA Federal Contractor")

If you would like more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please go to Employees & Job Applicants | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission