Continuous Improvement Intern (Summer 2027)

Werner Electric Supply Company; Appleton (WI); On-site; USD 15,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive mentorship

Lean Six Sigma training & cert.

Networking events

Department shadowing

Year-long internship potential

Possible full-time employment

Job summary

Werner Electric Supply Company is offering an internship program designed to develop Lean process improvement skills. The role emphasizes hands-on learning under a mentor, with formal Lean Six Sigma training and the opportunity to work on cross-functional projects.

Selected interns will participate in executive-level mentorship, complete company-sponsored certification, and attend networking events with customers and leaders.

Qualifications

• Enrolled in an accredited program pursuing a degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Continuous Improvement, or related field
• Some college (required) for internship eligibility
• Lean Six Sigma exposure or interest is a plus

Responsibilities

• Support Lean initiatives to improve customer satisfaction, margins, and reduce expenses
• Identify and implement continuous improvement activities across the organization
• Assist in Value Stream mapping and tracking savings and financial impact
• Develop performance metrics for Lean processes and communicate results to leadership
• Collaborate with multiple departments to drive efficiency and best practices
• Maintain quality records and support project delivery with a mentor

Skills

Process improvement

Lean methodologies

Education

Some college (required)

Enrolled in accredited program (Operations Mgmt / related field)

Job description

Be Yourself. Build Your Career. Be Exceptional Together.

At Werner, we're more than an electrical distributor - we're a community that empowers people to grow, innovate, and truly make a difference. Our culture celebrates individuality, encourages creativity, and values each person's voice; creating a space where you can be yourself, connect with others, and build a meaningful career. We believe in balance and flexibility, so you can thrive both professionally and personally. Together, we can make an impact and build something exceptional for our customers, families, communities, and each other.

Timeline and Expectations

Werner will be posting the internship positions starting in late September which will run through the end of November. We will be selecting candidates to move forward with from HR phone screen to virtual hiring manager interview during this time.

Internship Program

• Executive level mentorship and coaching
• Company-sponsored project management/Lean Six Sigma training and certification
• Up to $19 per hour (dependent on year in college)
• Networking events with internal and external customers and your intern team
• Individual and group projects that drive change and impactful business results
• Large-scale Summer long projects in collaboration with fellow interns and business leaders
• Opportunity to shadow with various departments to help determine your career path
• Potential for year-long internships and full-time employment post-graduation

Job Summary

Support Lean initiatives that allow for Werner to improve customer satisfaction, improve sales margins levels and/or reduce operating expenses. This position is a learning position where the intern will have an opportunity to test skills learned in the classroom, learn skills/techniques from industry professionals, and experience a corporate environment. Projects will be assigned and while working with a mentor, it is expected that the project will be completed, and results of the project will be presented. The goal is to have the intern deliver tangible results while interacting with different functional areas within the business.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Work with all levels of employees within the organization to identify and eliminate process waste, initiate sustainable process improvement activities, and provide hands-on training and technical support.
• Formalize and administer continuous improvement activities that will drive Lean methodology throughout the organization.
• Direct, coordinate, and actively participate in Value Stream events, resulting in the documentation of current and future state mapping. Ensure appropriate follow up for continued optimal performance.
• Develop and implement performance metrics for Lean processes in support of the overall business strategies and goals. Track and validate all savings attributed to the Lean deployment and report financial impact of the improvement activities to the Leadership Team.
• Develop and implement communication tools to enhance a Lean culture.
• Participate in and/or lead improvement activities with customers, vendors, and suppliers.
• Suggest and implement changes in working conditions and use of equipment to increase efficiency.
• Maintain quality records.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education and Experience: Enrolled in an accredited program pursuing a degree in Operations Management, Supply Chain Management, Industrial Engineering, Continuous Improvement, or another related field

Company Overview

Founded in 1948, Werner Electric Supply has grown from a small appliance store in downtown Neenah, WI into an award-winning employer and leading electrical distributor with 12 branch locations in Wisconsin and Upper-Michigan. Headquartered in Appleton, WI, we provide electrical, lighting, network, process, and inventory management solutions for a diverse group of industrial and construction customers. We are a growing, privately held company with over 450 employees who uphold a family culture built around exceptional customer service. As a recent New North Workplace Excellence Award winner, we're dedicated to the continuous improvement of our people, products, and services to ensure the long-term success of our employees and customers. Apply today and find out why we're a "Great Place to Work."

Werner is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Education

Some college (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.

For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.