Operations Co-op

Position Summary

The Operations Intern will support daily manufacturing and operational activities, focusing on process improvement, data analysis, and production support. This role provides hands-on experience in a fast-paced industrial environment, working closely with operations, engineering, and supply chain teams.

The intern will assist in identifying inefficiencies, improving reporting, and supporting initiatives that enhance productivity, quality, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Process Support

• Assist with monitoring production performance and key metrics (output, downtime, scrap)
• Support troubleshooting of production issues alongside operators and supervisors
• Observe and document manufacturing processes to identify improvement opportunities

Data Collection & Analysis

• Collect and analyze operational data from systems (e.g., PLEX) and manual processes
• Assist in developing reports and dashboards for production and performance tracking
• Identify trends and anomalies in production, quality, or downtime data

Continuous Improvement

• Support Lean / continuous improvement initiatives
• Participate in root cause analysis for production or quality issues
• Assist with implementation of process improvements and standard work

Quality & Safety Support

• Assist in tracking quality metrics and identifying recurring issues
• Support safety initiatives and audits as needed
• Help ensure adherence to standard operating procedures

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work with operations, maintenance, quality, and supply chain teams
• Assist with coordination of projects and process improvements across departments

Special Projects

• Support plant-specific initiatives such as:
  • Process optimization
  • Workflow improvements
  • Reporting automation
  • Capacity or efficiency studies

Qualifications

Education

• Must be currently enrolled at an accredited university pursuing a degree in:
  • Engineering (Industrial, Mechanical, Manufacturing preferred)
  • Operations Management
  • Supply Chain
  • Business or related field

Work Commitment

• Must be able to commit to at least one academic semester
• Availability to work part-time during the semester (schedule coordinated with plant leadership)

Skills & Experience

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (data analysis, basic formulas)
• Interest in manufacturing and operations
• Ability to work in a hands-on, shop-floor environment

Preferred

• Exposure to Lean principles or continuous improvement
• Familiarity with data analysis or reporting tools
• Previous internship or project experience in operations or manufacturing

Physical Requirements & Work Environment

• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment, including exposure to warm temperatures
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
• Comfortable working around heavy machinery and equipment (with proper safety training and PPE)
• Ability to follow all plant safety policies and procedures

Key Competencies

• Initiative: Takes ownership of tasks and seeks out opportunities to contribute
• Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in data and analysis
• Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional teams
• Adaptability: Comfortable in a dynamic, fast-paced environment
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Looks for ways to improve processes

Learning Outcomes

• Gain exposure to real-world manufacturing operations
• Develop data analysis and problem-solving skills
• Understand production processes, KPIs, and plant performance drivers
• Experience cross-functional teamwork in an industrial setting

Why Join Copperweld

Copperweld is experiencing tremendous growth and is building a high-performance culture with direct executive visibility and meaningful career advancement opportunities.

• Competitive compensation and incentives
• Great Place to Work® Certified four years in a row!

Copperweld is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, national origin, genetic information, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. Successful candidates will be required to successfully pass drug screening and background checks.