Job Title Process Improvement Intern
Location: Rock Hill, SC
The Process Improvement Intern will work directly with the Process Improvement Manager in a corrugated packaging manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on exposure to operational excellence, Lean manufacturing systems, quality management systems, production analytics, and cross-functional collaboration. The intern will observe, support, and participate in real-time improvement initiatives across corrugator and converting operations.
This is not a clerical position and will be embedded on the production floor and in data analysis activities.
Key Responsibilities
Shadow the Process Improvement Manager during:
Daily production meetings
Gemba walks
Downtime reviews
Quality investigations
Cross-functional improvement discussions
Assist in collecting and organizing operational data (waste %, downtime minutes, setup time, throughput, etc.)
Support analysis of machine performance across corrugator and converting equipment
Help build and update dashboards in Excel or Google Sheets
Observe and document standard work processes
Participate in Lean initiatives (5S audits, DMS boards, layered process audits, etc.)
Assist with development of work instructions and visual management tools
Support root cause analysis efforts using structured problem-solving methods
Prepare summary reports or one-page presentations on assigned projects
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the internship, the intern should understand:
Basic corrugated manufacturing flow (paper roll → corrugator → converting → shipping)
Key production KPIs (waste %, run rate, unplanned downtime, setup time)
Fundamentals of Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement
How quality systems integrate into daily operations
How data drives operational decision-making in manufacturing
Qualifications
Currently pursuing a degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, Business, or related field
Strong analytical mindset
Proficient in Excel or Google Sheets
Comfortable working in a manufacturing environment
Strong communication skills
Willingness to ask questions and engage on the production floor
Physical Requirements
Ability to walk production floor for extended periods
Ability to wear required PPE (safety glasses, hearing protection, steel-toe footwear)
Professional Expectations
Maintain professional conduct on the production floor
Respect safety protocols at all times
Demonstrate curiosity and initiative
Maintain confidentiality of operational data
Qualifications
Pratt Industries is America's 4th largest paper and packaging company with more than 10,000 highly skilled green collar employees dedicated to the environment and sustainability. Pratt Industries is one of the largest corrugated packaging companies in America, with sophisticated manufacturing facilities in more than twenty states. The company operates several of the most modern, cost effective paper mills in the country, as well as a series of sheet and box plants strategically placed throughout the United States offering a wide range of creative packaging solutions. Pratt Industries is committed to recycling and the environment by harvesting the urban forest.
Pratt Industries offers competitive compensation plans with incentive opportunities, full benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, All State, Pre-Paid Legal, and 401(k) with company match, paid vacation, paid holidays, and childbearing and parental leave.
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