Operations Management Intern

Job Description

About the Operations Management Internship at KI

At KI, we believe in understanding our customers deeply to serve them better. Since 1941, we’ve distinguished ourselves as a furniture company that provides smart, personalized solutions for various markets, including business, university, education, healthcare, and government. We don’t just offer furniture; we offer “Furnishing Knowledge.”

Kickstart your operations career with a hands-on internship in Manitowoc. This is a unique opportunity to work on real projects, solve real problems, and see your ideas make a tangible impact within a fast-paced manufacturing environment. As an Operations Management Intern, you will directly support our Operations and Lean teams, focusing on critical areas such as process improvement, safety, and daily plant operations.

What You’ll Do

You’ll be an integral part of the team ensuring our plant runs efficiently and safely. Your work will significantly contribute to ongoing improvement initiatives, including:

• Conducting time studies on existing processes and recommending updated time standards.
• Implementing improvement ideas generated through our process improvement system.
• Collaborating with Plant Technicians to gather feedback on new processes and ideas.
• Assisting manufacturing engineers with various process improvements, including layout updates.
• Communicating project updates effectively to internal stakeholders and external partners.

You’ll also contribute to the daily rhythm of plant operations by supporting:

• Safety audits, safety observations, and incident investigations.
• Quality issue investigations and related follow-up actions.
• Attending select management meetings to gain insight into decision-making processes and project advancement.

What You Bring

• A current Junior or Senior pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations, Supply Chain, or Business.
• Manufacturing experience is preferred but not strictly required.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Word, Excel, Teams; PowerPoint is a plus).
• The ability to read blueprints and a strong mechanical aptitude.
• A willingness to engage in hands-on work when necessary.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• A creative, energetic, and enthusiastic approach to improving operational processes.

Why You’ll Love This Internship

• You’ll work on meaningful, real-world projects that are not “busywork.”
• You’ll develop valuable skills in lean manufacturing, safety protocols, quality management, and operations leadership.
• You’ll have the opportunity to collaborate with experienced engineers, technicians, and managers.
• You’ll gain exposure to both hands-on plant-floor activities and higher-level management processes, providing a holistic view of operations.

KI is an Equal Opportunity Employer.