About the role#
PLZ Corp is seeking a Packaging / Process Engineering Intern to join our Food Products manufacturing operations in Saint Clair, Missouri. This role offers hands-on experience in a high-volume production environment. You will focus on process improvement, productivity, and operational excellence by working closely with plant operations, engineering, maintenance, and quality leadership.
What you'll do#
- Conduct time studies, process observations, and workflow analyses to identify bottlenecks and non-value-added activities.
- Analyze production data including cycle times, downtime, changeovers, labor utilization, and throughput.
- Develop recommendations to improve line efficiency, equipment utilization, and overall productivity.
- Lead one or more Green Belt-level continuous improvement projects using Lean and Six Sigma tools like DMAIC, 5 Why analysis, Pareto analysis, and root cause analysis.
- Develop and update standard work instructions, SOPs, job aids, and process maps.
- Partner with operators and supervisors to document current-state processes and establish best practices across shifts.
- Create visual management tools and training materials for the production floor.
- Quantify improvement opportunities, develop business cases, and track results against baseline metrics.
- Present findings and results to plant and business leadership.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment as a full-time undergraduate or graduate student.
- Pursuit of a degree in Packaging, Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing, Process, or Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0.
- Ability to work 40 hours per week.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
- Comfort working in a hands-on manufacturing environment.
- Ability to independently manage projects and priorities.
- Authorization to work in the U.S. for an indefinite period.
Location & details#
- Location: Saint Clair, Missouri.
- Term: Winter 2027 (January 2027 through April/May 2027).
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm.
- Compensation: $21 to $23 per hour, based on experience and education level.
About PLZ Corp
PLZ Corp operates in the specialty aerosol product sector. Founded in 1939, the company manages the development, manufacturing, and distribution of private-label and contract fill goods. Its product catalog includes industrial solvents, cleaners, lubricants, and personal care items for home and industrial use. The firm maintains its headquarters in Downers Grove, Illinois, and employs between 1,001 and 5,000 people.
How to get in at PLZ Corp
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