Operations Management Intern (Manufacturing focus)

Job Description

About the company

Komatsu is a global leader in the manufacturing of heavy equipment for the construction, mining, forestry, and industrial sectors. Founded in 1921, it boasts a long-standing history of quality, reliability, innovation, and excellence. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Komatsu operates facilities, distributors, and dealers in over 140 countries, employing more than 60,000 people worldwide. The company offers a diverse and challenging work environment where employees can develop their skills and careers while contributing to a sustainable, clean-energy future. Komatsu emphasizes a commitment to Diversity & Inclusion, striving for a workforce reflective of the communities it serves and valuing diverse backgrounds, perspectives, experiences, and contributions.

About the job: Operations Management Intern (Manufacturing focus)

This is an Onsite Position located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA, 53204-2941, specifically at Komatsu’s South Harbor location in Milwaukee’s Harbor District.

The role is for an Operations Management Co-op/Intern with a primary focus on manufacturing, specifically within the machinery factory and heat treat areas (which include CNC machinery, furnaces, and induction hardeners).

The target start date for this internship is January 2026 through August 2026, with the potential for extension into the Fall 2026 school semester. The position offers full-time hours during the summer and flexible part-time hours during the academic year.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Monitor and track aged Work In-Process (WIP) to ensure smooth production flow.
• Assist with production order maintenance, which includes reviewing, updating, and maintaining records.
• Support tracking of dispatch compliance to guarantee on-time production/delivery and adherence to established production schedules.
• Analyze and interpret operational metrics to identify trends, variances, and areas for improvement.
• Participate in time studies and Lean Manufacturing initiatives to enhance overall efficiency and reduce waste or rework in processes.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to support process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing both efficiency and safety within operations.
• Update training matrices and staffing charts for production employees.
• Engage in other general support activities for the operations department as needed.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• Must be currently pursuing a bachelor’s or advanced degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited college or university.
• Preferably of Sophomore or Junior standing, but Seniors will also be considered.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently as well as collaboratively with a team.
• Possess excellent organization and personal time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Possess strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Exhibit effective problem-solving and critical thinking skills, including the ability to be creative and resourceful when required.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite products (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

Preferred skills:

• An understanding of manufacturing systems, including machining or heat-treating processes.
• Knowledge of SAP or other ERP systems/software.
• Knowledge of data analytics software.

Additional Information/Intern Program Perks:

The Milwaukee Internship Program emphasizes community, collaboration, and innovation, offering several benefits:

• Networking opportunities: Including meet & greets with executive leadership.
• Community engagement: Participation in Volunteer Week.
• Appreciation Events for interns.
• End-of-Summer Capstone presentations to showcase project work.
• Company-sponsored travel opportunities.
• Access to amenities at Milwaukee HQ, such as a coffee shop, made-to-order cafeteria (serving breakfast and lunch), and a free onsite fitness center.
• Potential to return for future internships or join as full-time employees upon graduation.
• Engagement in real-world project work alongside local, regional, and global team members.
• Mentorship from experienced subject-matter experts in the intern’s field.

Compensation:

The role pays “$NA” as the specific hiring range is not provided, stating that the actual offer will consider a wide range of factors, including experience and location.