Operations Excellence Intern

Safran; Buffalo (NY); On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Safran in Buffalo, NY offers an Operations Excellence Internship focused on hands-on Lean manufacturing, 5S, and supply chain processes within an aerospace manufacturing setting. You will work with Manufacturing Engineering, Planning, Procurement, and Suppliers to drive improvements and deliver value across the value stream.

The role provides exposure to production planning, visual management tools, and continuous improvement projects while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Pursuing degree in a related field (see Qualifications).
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Interest in manufacturing operations, supply chain, Lean, and continuous improvement.
• Lean Six Sigma coursework/experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Support procurement activities including PO entry and NDA administration.
• Review and improve the Purchase Requisition process to drive efficiency and standardization.
• Collaborate with Planning and Suppliers to support customer delivery requirements.
• Assist with Lean Manufacturing and 5S initiatives to improve safety, organization, and productivity.
• Develop visual management tools, shadow boards, Kanban systems.
• Support production flow improvements through process mapping and line time studies.
• Assist in designing tooling, racks, and fixtures to improve ergonomics and efficiency.
• Track project actions, schedules, and risks for continuous improvement.

Skills

Microsoft Office

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Education

Pursuing a degree in Supply Chain/Operations/Engineering

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Position Summary

The Operations Excellence Intern will support operational improvement initiatives within the Gaseous Value Stream by partnering with Manufacturing Engineering, Planning, Procurement, Operations, and Suppliers. This role provides hands‑on experience in Lean Manufacturing, 5S, supply chain processes, production planning, and continuous improvement projects within a dynamic aerospace manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Support procurement activities, including purchase order entry, supplier follow‑up, and NDA administration.
• Review and improve the Purchase Requisition process to drive efficiency and standardization.
• Collaborate with Planning and Suppliers to support customer delivery requirements.
• Assist with Lean Manufacturing and 5S initiatives to improve safety, organization, and productivity.
• Develop visual management tools, shadow boards, point‑of‑use storage solutions, and Kanban systems.
• Support production flow improvements through process mapping, layout optimization, and line time studies.
• Assist in the design of tooling, racks, and fixtures to improve ergonomics and efficiency.
• Track project actions, schedules, and risks while supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Partner with cross‑functional teams to identify and implement operational improvements.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, Business Administration, Logistics, Project Management, or a related field.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Interest in manufacturing operations, supply chain, Lean Manufacturing, and continuous improvement.
• Lean Six Sigma, process improvement, manufacturing, or EHS coursework/experience is preferred.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university program.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Must meet applicable background screening requirements.
• Must be willing to sign a Non‑Disclosure Agreement (NDA).