Job Description Harsco Rail is seeking highly motivated and analytical Final Assembly / Operations Interns to join our team. This internship offers a comprehensive opportunity to contribute to operational excellence and continuous improvement within our final assembly and machine build areas. You will gain hands-on experience in data collection, process analysis, and documentation, directly impacting efficiency and quality. Qualifications QUALIFICATIONS Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Operations Management, or a related technical field. Additional Information ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Will include the following, but other duties may be assigned:
- Data Collection & Analysis:
- Conduct detailed observations and time studies of operations across various machine build areas.
- Record and document precise steps in manufacturing and assembly processes.
- Analyze process time data to identify and quantify excessive variation, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.
- Analyze takt time versus actual time on key assemblies to identify performance gaps.
- Process Improvement & Lean Initiatives:
- Assist with the creation or refinement of standard work documentation to optimize efficiency and consistency.
- Support lean initiatives such as 5S audits, visual management improvements, Kaizen events, and layout improvements.
- Identify Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) opportunities and conduct kitting analysis for subassemblies to improve material flow.
- Contribute to root cause analysis and problem-solving activities.
- Documentation & Training Support:
- Help digitize and organize Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and other operational documentation.
- Interview operators, team leads, and Manufacturing Engineers (MEs) to gather comprehensive process steps.
- Observe production processes to accurately document tasks, incorporating safety and quality considerations.
- Support training efforts by helping to prepare documentation for onboarding, utilizing diagrams, photos, and visual aids to enhance clarity.
- Design flowcharts and diagrams to illustrate complex processes.
- Collaboration & Presentation:
- Present findings, analyses, and improvement recommendations to supervisors and team leads.
- Attend team meetings and actively contribute to discussions.
- Build a stronger connection between operations and Continuous Improvement by contributing to focused projects.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS
- Analytical & Data-Driven: Strong ability to collect, organize, and analyze quantitative and qualitative data. Proficiency in using data to identify trends and variations.
- Process Observation & Documentation: Keen observation skills with the ability to accurately record and document detailed process steps.
- Problem-Solving: An aptitude for identifying operational inefficiencies and contributing to practical solutions.
- Lean Manufacturing Principles: Interest in or foundational understanding of Lean methodologies (e.g., 5S, Kaizen, Standard Work, Value Stream Mapping, Takt Time).
- Communication & Presentation: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate findings and recommendations. Experience with creating visual aids (diagrams, flowcharts) is highly beneficial.
- Software Proficiency: Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
- Attention to Detail: Meticulous in recording information and analyzing processes.
- Collaboration & Initiative: Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a cross-functional team, taking initiative to drive improvements.
Benefits of this Internship:
- Gain significant hands-on experience in operational analysis, process improvement, and lean manufacturing.
- Develop critical skills in data collection, time studies, and standard work creation.
- Opportunity to directly contribute to efficiency gains and quality improvements in a real-world manufacturing environment.
- Learn from experienced professionals and build a strong foundation in continuous improvement methodologies.
- Enhance presentation and interpersonal skills within a corporate setting.