Operational Excellence Engineering Intern - Summer 2027

RHI Magnesita is seeking motivated and innovative engineering students to join our Summer 2027 Operational Excellence Internship Program. This paid internship offers an opportunity to gain hands-on experience improving manufacturing processes, supporting continuous improvement initiatives, and driving operational performance within a global industrial organization.

As an Operational Excellence Engineering Intern, you will work closely with plant leadership, engineers, production teams, and operations excellence professionals to support projects focused on safety, quality, productivity, standardization, waste reduction, and process optimization. You will gain exposure to Lean Manufacturing principles and operational excellence methodologies while contributing to projects that deliver measurable business results.

This internship is designed for students who are interested in manufacturing, process improvement, engineering, and operations and are eager to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world industrial environment.

Why Join RHI Magnesita?

• Gain hands-on experience within a world-class manufacturing environment.
• Work on projects that directly impact safety, quality, productivity, and operational performance.
• Learn and apply Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Collaborate with engineers, plant leadership, operations teams, and maintenance professionals.
• Develop analytical, problem-solving, project management, and leadership skills.
• Present project findings and recommendations to leadership teams.
• Explore future internship and full-time career opportunities with RHI Magnesita.

What You'll Do

Operational Excellence Focus

• Support Lean Manufacturing and continuous improvement initiatives across plant operations.
• Assist with process analysis and data collection to identify opportunities for improvement.
• Participate in waste reduction, 5S, visual management, and standard work initiatives.
• Analyze operational processes to identify bottlenecks and recommend improvements.
• Assist with documenting best practices, procedures, and operating standards.
• Support implementation of continuous improvement projects and operational excellence initiatives.
• Track and report project metrics, key performance indicators (KPIs), and project results.

Process Improvement & Data Analysis

• Collect and analyze operational and production data to identify trends and improvement opportunities.
• Participate in root cause analysis and problem-solving activities.
• Support development of corrective and preventive action plans.
• Assist in preparing reports, dashboards, presentations, and project updates.
• Collaborate with production, engineering, maintenance, and quality teams to improve overall plant performance.

Shared Responsibilities

• Promote a strong safety culture by adhering to all environmental, health, and safety requirements.
• Participate in cross-functional improvement projects and team meetings.
• Support training and communication efforts related to operational excellence initiatives.
• Gain exposure to manufacturing technologies, engineering processes, and industrial operations.
• Perform other duties and special projects as assigned.

What You'll Gain

• Real-world experience applying continuous improvement and Lean Manufacturing principles.
• Exposure to large-scale manufacturing operations and engineering processes.
• Experience working on projects with measurable business impact.
• Development of analytical, technical, communication, and leadership skills.
• Mentorship from experienced engineers, plant leaders, and operational excellence professionals.
• Enhanced understanding of manufacturing systems, process optimization, and operational performance.
• Valuable preparation for future careers in engineering, manufacturing, operations, or continuous improvement.

What You Bring

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Students entering their Junior or Senior year in Fall 2027 are strongly preferred.
• Minimum 3.0 GPA preferred.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Interest in manufacturing, operational excellence, continuous improvement, process optimization, or industrial operations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous internship, co-op, research, project, or leadership experience.
• Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, process improvement, or project management concepts.
• Experience analyzing data and presenting recommendations.
• Familiarity with manufacturing, industrial operations, or continuous improvement initiatives.

Additional Information

• Paid Summer Internship
• May-August 2027 (flexible based on academic requirements)
• Full-time summer schedule
• Plant-based role with regular exposure to manufacturing operations
• High-performing interns may be considered for future internship, co-op, or full-time opportunities within RHI Magnesita following graduation.

Nearest Major Market: Canton

Nearest Secondary Market: Akron