Final Assembly & Operations Intern

Job Description

Harsco Rail is seeking highly motivated and analyticalFinal Assembly / Operations Internsto 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.