Summer Department Manager Intern - Lean & Operations Focus

Pella Corporation; Carroll (IA); Hybrid; USD 37,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Pella Corporation in Carroll, IA offers a Department Manager Intern position for Summer 2027. This on‑the‑floor leadership internship pairs you with a Department Manager to learn daily management routines, safety, schedule, quality, and team engagement while contributing to continuous improvement.

You'll lead a scoped improvement project (e.g., reducing defects, easing bottlenecks, improving flow) and participate in floor huddles, visual management, and performance tracking.

Qualifications

• Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Operations/Industrial Technology, Supply Chain, Business/Management, or related field.
• On‑site availability for a full‑time summer internship (10–12 weeks).
• Strong communication, problem‑solving, and teamwork skills; ability to build relationships and give/receive feedback.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint; data entry and basic charts.

Responsibilities

• Support department safety, quality, productivity, and schedule alongside a Department Manager.
• Participate in daily floor huddles, visual management, and floor walks to maintain plan attainment.
• Assist with labor and performance tracking, providing simple updates on key metrics.
• Contribute to continuous improvement (Lean/Kaizen) by documenting standard work, 5S, and corrective actions.
• Build team culture by recognizing performance and offering timely, respectful feedback.

Skills

Communication

Problem solving

Teamwork

Leadership potential

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Operations / Supply Chain

Tools

Excel

Word

PowerPoint

Job description

Pella Corporation in Carroll, IA offers a Department Manager Intern position for Summer 2027. This on‑the‑floor leadership internship pairs you with a Department Manager to learn daily management routines, safety, schedule, quality, and team engagement while contributing to continuous improvement.

You'll lead a scoped improvement project (e.g., reducing defects, easing bottlenecks, improving flow) and participate in floor huddles, visual management, and performance tracking.