CI Intern: Data-Driven Lean in Food Manufacturing

SunOpta; Eden Prairie (MN); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

SunOpta invites applications for a 12-week Continuous Improvement internship at our corporate office in Eden Prairie, MN. You will work with the CI team to support safety, quality, delivery, and cost improvements in a food manufacturing setting.

Projects include data analysis, standard work development, 5S and visual management, and cross-functional Kaizen events. Prior exposure to Lean/Six Sigma and tools like Excel, Power BI or Tableau is a plus.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor's degree in a related field such as Industrial/Manufacturing Engineering, Operations Management, Food Science, or Data Analytics.
• Sophomore standing or higher; graduate students considered.

Responsibilities

• Support CI initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and implement Standard Work, 5S, and Visual Management systems.
• Participate in Kaizen events and root cause analysis activities (Fishbone, 5 Whys).
• Document and update SOPs; collaborate with Production, QA, Engineering, and Supply Chain.
• Research AI and other digital tools to enhance manufacturing processes.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem solving

Communication skills

Excel

Data visualization tools

Education

Bachelor's degree in Industrial Engineering

Tools

Power BI

Tableau

Job description

SunOpta invites applications for a 12-week Continuous Improvement internship at our corporate office in Eden Prairie, MN. You will work with the CI team to support safety, quality, delivery, and cost improvements in a food manufacturing setting.

Projects include data analysis, standard work development, 5S and visual management, and cross-functional Kaizen events. Prior exposure to Lean/Six Sigma and tools like Excel, Power BI or Tableau is a plus.