Packaging Intern

Job Title: Packaging Intern

Location: Rock Hill, SC

Position Summary

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