About the role#
Polycorp is looking for a Process Improvement Intern Engineer to join our manufacturing team in San Jose. You will work alongside experienced staff to develop and optimize manufacturing processes. This role focuses on improving safety, quality, and cost efficiency while supporting our operational goals. You will manage process design, BOM accuracy, and lead initiatives to reduce waste and increase productivity.
What you'll do#
- Develop, document, and optimize manufacturing processes, work instructions, and SOPs.
- Improve equipment layout, tooling, and workflow for efficiency.
- Lead root cause analysis using DMAIC, 5 Why, and other structured problem-solving tools.
- Conduct time studies, capacity analysis, and production line balancing.
- Create, update, and audit Bills of Materials and routings.
- Perform cost analysis on labor, materials, scrap, and overhead.
- Support new product introductions through costing and process definition.
- Collaborate with Finance and Supply Chain to evaluate cost-saving opportunities.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives using Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.
- Facilitate cross-functional teams to reduce defects, enhance throughput, and eliminate waste.
- Track results and implement control plans for long-term sustainability.
- Train employees on Lean, 5S, and problem-solving tools.
- Improve process capability and reduce variation in manufacturing.
- Support CAPA investigations and implement corrective actions.
- Monitor KPIs such as scrap, yield, and uptime.
- Partner with Engineering on ECOs and manufacturability reviews.
- Work with Maintenance on equipment upgrades and process reliability.
- Assist Supply Chain in addressing vendor and material quality issues.
What you'll need#
- Bachelor degree in Industrial, Mechanical, Chemical, or Manufacturing Engineering.
- 3-5+ years of experience in manufacturing or process engineering.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and statistical software like MiniTab.
- Knowledge of Lean, Six Sigma, DOE, SPC, and problem-solving methodologies.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Experience with costing, BOM management, or ERP systems is preferred.
- Lean Six Sigma Green to Black Belt certification is preferred.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, on-site role based in San Jose, California.
- The position is paid.
- You must be able to walk, stand, and lift up to 50 pounds in a plant environment while wearing required PPE.
About Polycorp
Polycorp manufactures precision elastomeric components for infrastructure and industrial applications. The company designs systems to manage corrosion, noise, and vibration in demanding environments. Founded in 1996, it maintains operations in California and Ontario. The organization employs approximately 200 people.
How to get in at Polycorp
Applying early to Polycorp gives you a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role is published, so you can be among the first to submit your materials before the applicant pool grows. Getting your resume in early ensures it is seen while the team is still actively building their shortlist. You can use Intern Insider to identify the specific recruiters managing these roles at Polycorp. Reaching out directly to ask a thoughtful question about the internship or to request a referral often improves your response rate compared to waiting in the queue. Connecting with a human contact shows you have done your research and are serious about the position.
