Continuous Improvement Engineer Co-Op

Entegris; Chaska (MN); On-site; USD 28,000 - 41,000; Full time

Job summary

Entegris in Chaska, MN seeks a Continuous Improvement Engineer Co-Op for Spring 2027. This full-time, 6-month assignment supports manufacturing excellence by applying Lean and Six Sigma to improve safety, quality, and cost.

You’ll work with operations, engineering, quality, and production teams on waste reduction and sustainable solutions. Ideal candidates are enrolled students with strong analytical skills, Excel proficiency, and a passion for process improvement.

Qualifications

• Must be a currently enrolled student
• Expected graduation between December 2027 and May 2029
• Co-op program participation requirements must be met

Responsibilities

• Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, visual management, standard work, and workplace organization.
• Participate in and facilitate Kaizen events focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost.
• Conduct Gemba walks to observe processes, identify improvement opportunities, and engage employees in problem-solving.
• Support Total Daily Management (TDM) through metric tracking, visual boards, daily accountability, and action planning.
• Lead and support projects on scrap reduction, variance reduction, and process capability improvement.
• Apply Six Sigma and root cause analysis tools such as 5 Why, Fishbone Diagrams, Pareto Analysis, and Process Mapping.
• Assist with Kanban implementation and material flow improvements to reduce inventory and improve efficiency.
• Evaluate processes for ergonomic and safety improvements and collaborate to implement solutions.
• Analyze operational data, measure results, and communicate findings to stakeholders and leadership.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication

Data analysis

Excel

Lean Manufacturing

Six Sigma

Teamwork

Self-motivation

Education

Industrial Engineering

Manufacturing Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Operations Management

Supply Chain Management

Engineering Management

Business Analytics

Related technical discipline

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Job Title: Continuous Improvement Engineer Co-Op

Job Description: Here at Entegris, we use advanced science to enable technologies that transform the world, and we are seeking employees who have the drive to continue the mission.

The Role:

Our site in Chaska, MN is seeking a Continuous Improvement Engineer Co-Op to join our team for the Spring 2027 season. This assignment is intended to be full time, 6 months in duration. In this role, you will support manufacturing and operational excellence initiatives by applying Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma principles to improve safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance. You will work closely with operations, engineering, quality, and production teams to identify improvement opportunities, eliminate waste, reduce process variation, and implement sustainable solutions that drive measurable business results.

What You’ll Do:

• Support Lean Manufacturing initiatives including 5S, visual management, standard work, and workplace organization.
• Participate in and facilitate Kaizen events focused on improving safety, quality, delivery, and cost performance.
• Conduct Gemba walks to observe manufacturing processes, identify improvement opportunities, and engage employees in problem-solving activities.
• Support Total Daily Management (TDM) processes through metric tracking, visual management boards, daily accountability, and action planning.
• Lead and support projects focused on scrap reduction, variance reduction, process capability improvement, and cost savings.
• Apply Six Sigma and root cause analysis tools including 5 Why, Fishbone Diagrams, Pareto Analysis, and Process Mapping.
• Assist with Kanban implementation and material flow improvements to reduce inventory and improve operational efficiency.
• Evaluate manufacturing processes for ergonomic and safety improvement opportunities and collaborate with teams to implement solutions.
• Analyze operational data, measure project results, and communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders and leadership.

What We Seek:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a passion for continuous improvement.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to collaborate across multiple functions.
• Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret manufacturing and operational data.
• Self-motivated individuals capable of managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Interest in Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Operational Excellence, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team while driving results and accountability.
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and a hands-on approach to process improvement.

Desired Major(s) & Graduation Year:

Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Engineering Management, Business Analytics or related technical discipline Expected graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029.

Eligibility:

Must be a currently enrolled student Available to work 40 hours a week, M-F (8a-5p) beginning in January through June Must be familiar with the university’s requirements to participate in a co-op program Entegris is not currently hiring candidates for co-ops/internships who will need, now or at any time in the future, Entegris sponsorship through the H1-B lottery.

WHY WORK AT ENTEGRIS?

Lead. Inspire. Innovate. Define Your Future.

Not everyone who works for a global company shares the same background, experiences and perspectives. We leverage the differences of our employees to bring new ideas to the table. Every employee throughout the company is encouraged to share input on projects and initiatives. Our decision-making process is truly a collaborative effort as we realize there are leaders at every level of the organization. We put our values at the core of how we operate as an organization - not just when it's convenient, but in a lasting and meaningful way. We want the time and energy you spend here to have a positive impact on your life inside and outside of the office.

WHAT WE OFFER

Our total rewards package goes above and beyond just a paycheck. Whether you're looking to build your career, improve your health, or protect your wealth, we offer generous benefits to help you achieve your goals.

Compensation: $20-$30/hour range with actual pay dependent on candidate overall skills for the role.

Values-driven culture with colleagues that rally around People, Accountability, Creativity and Excellence

Entegris does not provide immigration-related sponsorship for this role. Do not apply for this role if you will need Entegris immigration sponsorship (e.g., H1B, TN, STEM OPT, etc.) now or in the future.

At Entegris we are committed to providing equal opportunity to all employees and applicants. Our policy is to recruit, hire, train, and reward employees for their individual abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, color, religion, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, marital or military status.

At Entegris, we want you to be part of our culture, which values your unique talents, skills, and experiences. We believe what we do is as important as how we do it. People at our company bring their true selves to work, and are appreciated not only for what they do, but for who they are. This plus the technical complexity of our products and solutions means you can be sure your work is both challenging and changing the world for the better.

Learn more about why people enjoy working at Entegris.