Operational Excellence Intern - Summer 2027

Ensign-Bickford Industries; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 25,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

EnviroLogix in Portland, Maine seeks an Operational Excellence Intern to support continuous improvement initiatives across our site. You will gain hands-on experience in Kaizen fundamentals, process optimization, and team facilitation as you contribute to strategic priorities.

As an EBI intern, you will work on robust projects that prepare you for full-time opportunities after graduation, receive mentorship from experienced professionals, and participate in career development and networking

Qualifications

• Qualified candidates will be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program, preferably in Science, Manufacturing, Engineering, Business or another related field.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and process-oriented mindset
• Exhibit excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Express interest or experience in Lean, Kaizen, or operational excellence methodologies
• Demonstrate an ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable facilitating discussions and leading small groups
• Curious, proactive, and eager to learn

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute process improvement initiatives across the site.
• Contribute to Kaizen events and waste walks focused on identifying and eliminating inefficiencies.
• Document findings and recommendations to improve processes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to boost operational efficiency.
• Assist in building visual management tools like Daily Boards and Standard Work.
• Present outcomes to stakeholders and leadership.

Skills

Lean / Kaizen

Operational excellence

Analytical mindset

Communication skills

Teamwork / collaboration

Facilitation / leading small groups

Independent work

Curiosity / eagerness to learn

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree program

Job description

This opportunity is located within our EnviroLogix business that develops and manufactures testing solutions for detecting GMOs, mycotoxins, plant pathogens, natural toxins and chemical contaminants in multiple agricultural matrices.

Job Description

EnviroLogix is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Operational Excellence Intern to support key initiatives that drive continuous improvement across our site, located in Portland, Maine. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Kaizen Fundamentals, process optimization, and team facilitation while contributing to strategic business priorities.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in the planning and execution of process improvement initiatives across the business.
• Contribute to Kaizen and problem solving events and waste walks focused on identifying and eliminating inefficiencies.
• Document and present findings, recommendations, and outcomes to improve efforts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency.
• Help build and sustain visual management tools including Daily Boards, Standard Work, and action trackers.
• Document and present findings, recommendations, and outcomes to improve efforts.

Requirements

• Qualified candidates will be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program, preferably in Science, Manufacturing, Engineering, Business or another related field.
• Demonstrate strong analytical and process-oriented mindset
• Exhibit excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Express interest or experience in Lean, Kaizen, or operational excellence methodologies
• Demonstrate an ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable facilitating discussions and leading small groups
• Curious, proactive, and eager to learn

As an EBI Intern, you will

• Work on robust projects that prepare you for a full-time opportunity after graduation
• Practical experience in operational excellence and Kaizen methodologies
• Exposure to real-world business challenges and strategic initiatives
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Opportunities to lead and contribute to impactful projects
• Receive competitive pay for your contributions
• Showcase your project outcomes to leadership at the end of the summer
• Participate in career development discussions
• Socialize through teambuilding and networking events
• Learn more about career opportunities across our businesses

The anticipated hiring range for this position is: $18.00-23.00/hour. Salary is determined in good faith based on several factors including education, experience, knowledge, skills, abilities, requirements of the position, internal equity, and alignment with market data.

EnviroLogix is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE). Qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, religion, color, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, genetic information, national origin, or veteran status.