Job Description

The ideal candidate will work from our Jasper, IN 11th Ave. manufacturing facility. This internship is for the summer of 2027.

Position Overview:

The MFG Operations College Intern supports manufacturing leadership by learning and contributing to the day-to-day operation of an assigned production area. Under the direction of an Area Manager or designated leader, the intern assists with safety, quality, delivery, cost, continuous improvement, and team communication activities while gaining practical experience in manufacturing operations and people leadership.

Role Description:

Provide project and operational support within an assigned manufacturing area while developing an understanding of production planning, performance measures, continuous improvement, safety, quality systems, and effective shop-floor leadership.

Responsibilities:

• Support daily shop-floor meetings and follow-up on assigned actions.
• Assist with monitoring area performance measures and preparing clear updates for the Area Manager.
• Participate in process improvement activities focused on safety, quality, delivery, cost, and customer needs.
• Support 6S implementation and adherence, including observations, documentation, and improvement recommendations.
• Assist with production schedule and capacity-planning activities under the direction of manufacturing leadership.
• Participate in safety program activities, safe-work-practice reviews, and follow-up on assigned countermeasure actions.
• Support the quality system by following established processes and helping document improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate with production team members and cross-functional partners to gather information, resolve assigned issues, and share best practices.
• Assist with preparing presentations, reports, standard work, and other operational documentation.
• Observe and learn effective coaching, communication, problem-solving, and change-management practices.
• Complete an assigned internship project and communicate findings and recommendations to appropriate stakeholders.
• Perform other related duties and projects as assigned based on business needs and the intern’s experience level.

Skills to Perform This Role

Interpersonal Skills

• Ability to build positive working relationships and contribute in a team environment.
• Customer-focused mindset with a high degree of integrity.
• Flexible, open to change, and comfortable working in a fast-paced, goal-driven environment.
• Eagerness to learn, receive feedback, and take initiative within assigned responsibilities.

Technical Skills:

• General understanding of manufacturing, industrial engineering, operations, or related business concepts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to organize and interpret operational information and performance measures.
• Basic mechanical aptitude or interest in manufacturing processes preferred.

Communication & Leadership Skills:

• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to listen, ask questions, and communicate with both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Strong organization, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments, meet deadlines, and break projects into actionable tasks.
• Demonstrated interest in leadership and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a college or university program in Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, Business, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• Interest in manufacturing operations and leadership.
• Previous manufacturing, operations, project, or team-based experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment and follow all required safety practices.
• Positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to learn from experienced leaders and team members

Work / Educational Requirements:

• College student in good academic standing.
• Availability to work the internship schedule established for the assigned location.
• Ability to use standard business software and learn company systems required for assigned work.
• Any additional location-specific physical, schedule, or safety requirements will be communicated separately.

Brand Information

If you prefer a career that offers different opportunities daily while working with a variety of people, Kimball International would like to talk to you. We are a family-friendly company that values the differences that make each associate unique.

EEO Statement

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law.

VISA Sponsorship

Kimball International, Inc. will not sponsor applicants for this position for employment/work visa status (e.g.. H-1B)