Operations Co-op

Job Description

About the Role
As an Operations Co-op, you will play a key role in supporting daily manufacturing operations within a high-performance aerospace environment focused on fluid fittings. This heavily hands-on role involves spending 70–80% of your time on the production floor supporting forge pressing and CNC machining operations, with the remainder in an office setting for data analysis and driving improvements. You will partner closely with operations, quality, and engineering teams to execute 6S initiatives, continuous improvement projects, and performance/quality audits, developing practical manufacturing and leadership skills in aerospace production systems.

What You’ll Do
• Support daily production activities on the shop floor, ensuring adherence to safety, quality, and operational standards
• Execute and sustain 6S initiatives (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, Safety) across forge and machining areas
• Conduct process, quality, and performance audits, identifying gaps and driving corrective actions
• Monitor and analyze key performance metrics such as scrap, first-pass yield, throughput, and overall equipment efficiency (OEE)
• Partner with engineering and operations to implement continuous improvement projects focused on productivity, cost reduction, and process capability
• Assist with root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (RCCA) for quality and production issues
• Support forge pressing and CNC machining operations through observation, data collection, and process verification
• Ensure compliance with work instructions, routers, and aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100 practices)
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment while identifying and mitigating safety risks
• Assist with production scheduling support, work order management, and documentation control
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operators, supervisors, quality, and engineering teams
• Participate in kaizen events, process trials, and new product/process introductions
• Perform other duties as assigned

You’re a Good Fit If You
• Possess strong mechanical and technical aptitude with interest in manufacturing processes
• Have an analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and solve problems
• Hold a basic understanding of manufacturing principles (lean manufacturing, process flow, standard work)
• Are familiar with quality tools such as root cause analysis, Pareto charts, and basic statistical methods
• Have the ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and process documentation
• Possess strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively on the shop floor and with cross-functional teams
• Are self-motivated with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Are proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); data analysis skills preferred
• Possess strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Are currently pursuing a BS Degree in Engineering and/or Business Management – Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering preferred
• Have completed at least your freshman year

Bonus Qualifications
• Hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment (internship, co-op, or prior work)
• Exposure to forging, metal forming, or CNC machining processes
• Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives (5S/6S, kaizen, value stream mapping)

Role Highlights & Compensation
• Work full-time (40 hrs/week as a co-op) or part-time (20 hrs/week as an intern) for a total of ~480 hours