Lean Manufacturing Intern - Summer 2027

RPM SPG; Green Bay (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Carboline is seeking a Lean Manufacturing Intern for its Green Bay, WI plant for a 12-week summer program (May 17, 2027 – August 6, 2027). You’ll work under the Plant Manager to drive lean improvements, data-driven problem solving, and cost-saving initiatives on the production floor, gaining hands-on experience in a fast-paced manufacturing environment.

Open to students pursuing Industrial Engineering or related fields, with 30–40 hours/week and a focus on teamwork, safety, and practical

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Must have completed 30 credit hours.
• Availability to work 30-40 hours per week May–August.
• Strong communication, organization, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to learn and take on new challenges.

Responsibilities

• Spot inefficiencies and gather data to drive lean improvements.
• Support daily improvement events and Level 3 Kaizen initiatives.
• Work with Focused Improvement Team (FIT) to track cost savings.
• Assist in prepping events and follow-up to maintain momentum.
• Adhere to safety and quality policies on the production floor.

Skills

Communication skills

Teamwork

Interpersonal skills

Proactive attitude

Education

Industrial Engineering or related field

30 credit hours completed

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION Summer 2027 Internship Opportunity!

Title: Lean Manufacturing Intern

Location: Green Bay, Wisconsin

Summary: Are you ready to kickstart your career with a company that’s making a global impact? Carboline is looking for motivated, curious, and driven students to join our team for an unforgettable summer internship experience! This immersive 12-week program (Anticipated: May 17, 2027 - August 6, 2027), offers a unique opportunity to gain valuable experience, build lasting connections, and make a meaningful impact- all before heading back to campus. Join our dynamic team at the Green Bay Plant as a Lean Manufacturing Intern, where you'll work directly under the guidance of the Plant Manager to drive impactful change across our operations. This internship offers hands-on experience in lean principles, data-driven problem-solving, and process optimization. You'll be part of a fast-paced environment focused on eliminating waste, improving efficiency, and supporting key improvement initiatives that make a real difference on the production floor.

What You'll Gain:

• Meaningful, hands-on experience working on impactful projects that contribute to Carboline's success.
• Exposure to cross-functional collaboration and insight into how a global organization operates.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship from experienced leaders.
• A chance to enhance your skills and apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting.
• Participation in team-building activities and a workplace culture that values innovation, integrity, and growth.

Minimum Requirements:

• Currently pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering or a related field.
• Preferred: completed of 30 credit hours.
• Available to work 30-40 hours per week from May through August.
• Strong communication, organization, teamwork, and interpersonal skills.
• A proactive attitude and willingness to learn.

Physical Requirements:

• Expect light physical activity and extended computer use (up to 8 hours/day).
• Occasional visits to the production floor will require proper footwear and PPE.
• Must be able to lift/move up to 15 pounds as needed.
• Occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; noise level is typically moderate.
• Students must have housing arrangements in or near Green Bay, WI for the summer, as housing allowance is not provided.

Essential Functions:

• Spot inefficiencies and gather data to guide smarter resource allocation.
• Join in on daily improvement huddles and contribute fresh ideas.
• Support Focused Improvement Team (FIT) events - including Level 3 Kaizen initiatives.
• Help with event prep and follow-up, ensuring momentum and results.
• Track cost savings from your improvement efforts and celebrate the wins.
• Brainstorm and implement performance-boosting ideas that enhance productivity, communication, and execution.
• Apply Lean Six Sigma problem solving tools to help analyze and mitigate a wide range of issues of varying complexity.
• Take on special projects and jump into new challenges as they arise.
• Champion Carboline's commitment to safety and quality by adhering to all relevant policies and procedures.

Who We Are:

Carboline is a St. Louis-based coatings manufacturer with a global reach. The company, founded in 1947, produces high-quality performance coatings, linings, and fireproofing products in more than 20 manufacturing facilities around the world. Carboline has been ranked a top workplace, so culture and maintaining a safe and clean work environment is something we take very seriously. Carboline is part of RPM International Inc., a $7.6 billion, multinational company with subsidiaries that are world leaders in specialty coatings, sealants, building materials and related services. From homes and workplaces to infrastructure and precious landmarks, RPM's market-leading brands are trusted by consumers and professionals alike to help build a better world. If you want to be part of a growing global organization with opportunity for growth, we would like to meet you.

What We Offer:

• We offer a team atmosphere that fosters cooperation and creativity; a management team committed to employee development and an environment where people are empowered to make decisions.
• Our career opportunities offer unlimited earnings potential, and our comprehensive benefits package is among the best in the industry which includes affordable benefits, a company match 401K plan and a retirement pension plan.
• Carboline is an Equal Opportunity Employer that values the strength diversity brings to the workplace.
• Individuals with Disabilities and Protected Veterans are encouraged to apply.
• "In order to be the best, we must hire the best."