Operational Excellence / Lean Intern

Parker Hannifin is a leader in motion and control technologies, and they are seeking an Operational Excellence Intern to support continuous improvement initiatives across the organization. This role involves working with operations and supply chain teams to analyze processes, eliminate waste, and enhance efficiency using Lean methodologies.

What you'll do:

• Assist in mapping current-state processes (e.g., value stream mapping, process flow diagrams)
• Collect and analyze operational data (cycle time, throughput, defects, downtime, etc.)
• Identify waste (TIMWOODS: Transportation, Inventory, Motion, Waiting, Overproduction, Overprocessing, Defects, Skills) and propose improvement opportunities
• Support development of future-state process designs under guidance of Lean/OpEx leaders
• Participate in Kaizen events, Rapid Improvement Workshops, and other CI projects
• Help prepare project charters, problem statements, and root cause analyses (5 Whys, Fishbone/Ishikawa)
• Track project actions, timelines, and results; support benefit validation (cost, quality, delivery, safety, morale)
• Assist in standardizing improved processes and documenting new work standards and SOPs
• Apply basic Lean tools such as 5S, visual management, standard work, Kanban, and mistake-proofing (Poka‑Yoke)
• Support implementation of performance boards, KPI dashboards, and tiered daily management routines
• Help maintain and update continuous improvement toolkits, templates, and playbooks
• Gather operational metrics from systems and shop-floor/office sources

What they're looking for:

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field
• Basic understanding of Lean principles and Operational Excellence concepts (e.g., PDCA, DMAIC, Kaizen)
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; comfortable working with data and metrics
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word; exposure to data visualization or BI tools is a plus
• Solid written and verbal communication skills; able to present findings clearly and succinctly
• Ability to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams and interact with personnel at different levels
• Coursework or project experience in process improvement, statistics, or quality management
• Familiarity with process mapping tools (e.g., Visio, Lucidchart) or project management tools
• Experience in a manufacturing, logistics, operations, or service environment (internships, co-op, or projects)