What are the responsibilities and job description for the Industrial Engineering Intern position at Featherlite Trailer Manufacturing?
Reports To: Industrial Engineering Manager
Location: Cresco, IA (On-Site)
Duration: 8–12 weeks
About Us:
Featherlite Trailers is the nation's original all-aluminum specialty trailer manufacturer. Since 1973, Featherlite has pioneered lightweight, durable trailers — from horse, car, livestock, and recreational trailers to highly customized business-to-business specialty trailers, racecar transporters, and event-marketing trailers.
Our manufacturing operations are based at our facility in Cresco, Iowa (816 7th St W), with a workforce of 400 employees working in a 310,000-square-foot plant.
At Featherlite, we believe in quality, innovation, and a "Safe. Secure. Smart." mindset — delivering trailers that combine strength, reliability, and customizability
Job Summary:
The Industrial Engineering Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting the IE team in identifying opportunities to improve manufacturing efficiency, reduce waste, and enhance product flow. Interns will participate in project-based assignments that address real business needs, work alongside experienced engineers, and receive mentorship throughout the 8–12 week internship.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
Support the implementation of site lean initiatives, including 5S, standard work, visual management, and Kaizen events.
Assist in analyzing production processes to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement.
Collect, organize, and analyze production data to support continuous improvement projects.
Collaborate with operators, technicians, and cross-functional teams on process improvement initiatives.
Support workflow, layout, and capacity analysis projects to optimize plant operations.
Assist with documentation of manufacturing processes, standard work, and time standards.
Participate in team meetings and present findings and recommendations to the IE Manager and site leadership.
Contribute to ad hoc projects that provide exposure to multiple functional areas, including production, quality, and supply chain.
Skills, Qualifications, and Experience Requirements:
Currently enrolled as a full-time student in an accredited university or college.
Minimum GPA of 3.0.
Valid U.S. work authorization.
Pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and data collection skills.
Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles and process improvement tools is a plus.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and basic data analysis tools.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
Self-motivated, adaptable, and eager to learn in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environment.
Learning Opportunities:
Exposure to real-world manufacturing processes, continuous improvement projects, and cross-functional collaboration.
Mentorship from experienced industrial engineers and access to guidance from site leadership.
Opportunity to work on meaningful projects that directly impact operations and efficiency.
Development of practical skills in lean manufacturing, process analysis, and production optimization.
Compensation and Benefits
Hourly Wage: Competitive hourly rate based on the student's academic level and area of study.
Training & Safety: Company-provided PPE and required safety training.
Future Opportunity: Potential consideration for future internships or full-time roles based on performance.
At Featherlite Exiss Sooner Holdings Co., LLC, we are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all qualified applicants and employees and the workplace is free from unlawful discrimination or harassment. Employment decisions are based on merit alone, without consideration of an applicant's or employee's membership in any protected class.