What are the responsibilities and job description for the Intern - Engineering/Manufacturing position at EXALTA?
Reports to: Sr. R&D Manager
About the Role
The Engineering & Manufacturing Intern will support a variety of engineering and manufacturing functions through structured rotational assignments across departments which may include: Manufacturing, Process & Sustaining Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance & Facilities. This role provides hands-on experience in a production environment while contributing to continuous improvement initiatives, operational excellence, product quality, equipment reliability, and manufacturing efficiency.
The intern will assist with assigned engineering and technical projects, data analysis, process improvements, lean manufacturing initiatives, and problem-solving activities. Successful candidates will be self-starters who demonstrate initiative, strong analytical skills, and a hands-on approach to learning and contributing in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.
This is a year-round internship located on-site in Marquette, Michigan.
Responsibilities
- Participate in rotational assignments supporting Manufacturing, Process & Sustaining Engineering, Quality, and Maintenance & Facilities teams.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, manufacturing, maintenance, quality, and production personnel to meet safety, quality, productivity, delivery, and cost objectives.
- Assist with process improvement projects through data collection, analysis, and implementation of corrective actions.
- Support lean manufacturing initiatives, including waste reduction, workplace organization, process standardization, and continuous improvement activities.
- Conduct time studies and analyze manufacturing processes to identify opportunities for increased efficiency and productivity.
- Assist with the development and maintenance of process documentation, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
- Support quality initiatives through inspections, audits, root cause investigations, and corrective action activities.
- Assist with monitoring and analyzing production, quality, and equipment performance metrics.
- Participate in equipment, tooling, and facility improvement projects.
- Support preventative maintenance and facility-related projects as assigned.
- Assist engineering teams with product, process, and equipment validation activities.
- Participate in problem-solving efforts using structured methodologies and data-driven decision-making.
- Present project updates and findings to engineering and operational teams.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Core Competencies
- Process Improvement & Innovation
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
- Results Orientation
- Initiative & Self-Motivation
- Teamwork & Collaboration
- Quality Focus
- Communication Skills
- Adaptability & Continuous Learning
- Technical Aptitude
- Safety Awareness
Qualifications
- Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in: Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, or Industrial Technologies
- Sophomore standing or higher preferred.
- Familiarity with CAD software, solid modeling, and engineering drawing principles.
- Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and engineering fundamentals.
- Exposure to Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, or Continuous Improvement concepts preferred.
- Basic understanding of GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) preferred.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Schedule & Internship Details
- Part-time schedule during the academic year.
- Full-time schedule available during summer breaks (up to 40 hours per week).
- Internship continuation reviewed at the end of each academic semester.
- Eligible for employment up to three months following graduation.
What You'll Gain
- Exposure to multiple engineering and manufacturing disciplines through rotational assignments.
- Hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment.
- Real-world application of engineering coursework.
- Experience with continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, quality systems, and maintenance operations.
- Opportunities to work on meaningful projects that drive operational performance and business results.
- Mentorship from engineering and manufacturing professionals.
EXALTA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We respect every employee as an individual, and we hire and promote based on qualifications, performance, and potential - without regard to race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status.