Intern, Lean Manufacturing Operations

James Hardie; Wilmington (OH); On-site; USD 28,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Networking opportunities

Hands-on projects

Competitive pay

Job summary

James Hardie Building Products Inc. invites students to a 12-week paid internship focused on Lean manufacturing and continuous improvement. You will support HMOS deployment, participate in Gemba walks, and work on real projects that drive measurable outcomes in manufacturing.

You’ll learn to analyze data with Excel, develop standard work, and collaborate with operators and leaders. The program includes mentoring, networking, and opportunities to grow within the James Hardie family.

Qualifications

• Pursuing an undergraduate degree in a relevant field with a 2027–2029 graduation window.
• GPA at least 3.0.
• Available to work full-time for 12 weeks during Summer 2027.
• US work authorization is required.

Responsibilities

• Support HMOS daily management systems, KPI tracking and action follow-up.
• Participate in Gemba walks, Lean workshops and continuous improvement activities.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, opportunities and gaps.
• Assist with standardization of processes, work instructions and Lean practices.
• Collaborate with operators, supervisors and cross-functional teams to drive site initiatives.
• Ensure timely completion and measurable results for projects.
• Present outcomes and learnings to site leadership.

Skills

Lean manufacturing

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Analytical skills

Education

Bachelor's degree student

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Job description

James Hardie is the industry leader in exterior home and outdoor living solutions, with a portfolio that includes fiber cement, fiber gypsum, composite and PVC decking and railing products. Our family of trusted brands includes Hardie®, TimberTech®, AZEK® Exteriors, Versatex®, fermacell®, and StruXure®.

With over 8,000 employees and our U.S. operating entities headquartered in Chicago, we boast 31 operating sites, 6 recycling facilities, and 6 research and development centers globally. Powered by a dynamic workforce, we’re united by our purpose of Building a Better Future for All™ through sustainable innovation, a Zero Harm culture, and a commitment to empowering our people and communities.

For more information, visit www.jameshardie.com.

Summary

As a James Hardie intern, you will gain hands‑on experience in your chosen field while contributing to meaningful projects that drive business results. Our 12‑week paid internship program is designed to provide real‑world industry exposure, strengthen your professional and technical skills, and help prepare you for a successful career. Throughout the program, you will collaborate with experienced professionals, build valuable relationships across the organization, and take on work that makes a measurable impact. You will also have access to mentoring opportunities and professional development resources to support your growth and career aspirations.

Internship Objective

Gain practical experience in Lean manufacturing, problem solving, employee engagement, and continuous improvement. Support the continued development and deployment of HMOS across the manufacturing site.

Complete and present an HMOS improvement project that identifies an opportunity, implements improvements, and demonstrates measurable results.

What You’ll Do:

• Support HMOS daily management systems, standards, KPI tracking, and action item follow‑up to drive operational excellence.
• Participate in Gemba walks, Lean workshops, and continuous improvement activities to identify and implement process improvements.
• Analyze operational data to identify trends, improvement opportunities, and performance gaps.
• Assist with the development and standardization of processes, work instructions, and Lean best practices.
• Collaborate with operators, supervisors, leaders, and cross‑functional teams to support site initiatives and improvement projects.
• Ensuring timely completion and measurable results for assigned continuous improvement projects.
• Present project outcomes, recommendations, and key learnings to site leadership and stakeholders.

What You’ll Bring:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in a relevant discipline at an accredited university, with an anticipated graduation date between December 2027 and May 2029 (rising junior or rising senior).
• Strong academic performance with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
• Available to work full‑time for 12 weeks during summer 2027.
• Reliable transportation to and from the work location.
• Authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Skills

• Target majors: Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Manufacturing Engineering, Engineering Management, Supply Chain Management, Business Analytics, and Industrial/Manufacturing Technology, Business Management / Business Administration with a focus on Lean, Continuous Improvement, or Operations.
• Strong communication and organization skills
• Analytical mindset, interest in Lean/continuous improvement
• Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint skills.

What You’ll Receive:

As of the date of this posting, a good faith estimate of the current pay scale for this position is $20 to $25 per hour. Placement in the range depends on several factors such as experience, skills, geography and may change over time.

• Full‑time work experience and competitive pay
• Meaningful projects with business impact
• Mentorship and guidance
• Feedback and evaluation
• Exposure to James Hardie culture
• Networking opportunities and skill development

This role is an opportunity to join the AZEK Group, LLC, a part of the James Hardie Building Products family of companies, where you’ll contribute to a culture driven by growth, collaboration, and meaningful impact.

James Hardie Building Products Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, gender, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, genetic information, veteran’s status, marital status, pregnancy, disability, or any other basis protected by law.

James Hardie will comply with any applicable state and local laws regarding employee leave benefits, including, but not limited to providing time off pursuant to the Colorado Healthy Families and Workplaces Act, in accordance with its plans and policies.

The position responsibilities outlined above are in no way to be construed as all encompassing. Other duties, responsibilities, and qualifications may be required and/or assigned as necessary.