Lean Manufacturing Engineering Co-op

Summary

The Lean Manufacturing Co-op provides a learning experience in a manufacturing setting for students’ related field of undergraduate or graduate study. Co-op with a lean focus would support activities pertaining to Vesuvius CG manufacturing goals. Candidate should be prepared for hands-on involvement on the shop floor, attendance at team meetings, and support of continuous improvement projects.

Education and Experience

• Accomplished graduate program in a production / quality / manufacturing engineering.
• Previous experience as an intern a plus

Availability Requirement:

• Candidate must be able to commit to full-time co-op schedule (5 days per week, typically 8 hours per day).
• Flexibility to occasionally adjust hours for plant visits, training, or project deadlines may be required.

Technical / Hard Skills

1. Data Analysis & Metrics - ability to collect, organize, and analyze production data. Proficient in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and charts
2. Documentation Skills - ability to help write/update SOPs, work instructions, visual management boards.
3. Basic Lean Manufacturing Knowledge - or willingness to learn concepts like 5S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, Standard Work.
4. Problem-Solving Tools - knowledge or willingness to learn methods like 5-Why, Fishbone diagrams, PDCA.
5. Software Literacy - Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); sometimes exposure to ERP/WMS/MRP systems.

Soft Skills

1. Communication Skills - able to clearly explain observations and ideas to team members and supervisors.
2. Teamwork & Collaboration - work effectively with operators, engineers, and management on improvement projects.
3. Attention to Detail - notice process inefficiencies, errors, or deviations from standards.
4. Adaptability & Learning Agility - willing to learn on the shop floor, adapt to different tasks or teams.
5. Time Management & Organization - handle multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and track follow-ups.
6. Initiative & Proactivity - willing to suggest improvements, participate in Kaizen events, and take ownership of assigned tasks.

Optional / Nice-to-Have

• Familiarity with basic manufacturing equipment and processes.
• Understanding of OSHA or safety standards.
• Experience with continuous improvement projects in school or internships.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. While performing the duties of this Job, the employee is regularly required to sit; stand, walk, use hands to operate computer equipment, and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms. The work environment has temperature extremes and moderate to high noise level. Regional travel is required occasionally.