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Lean Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lean Engineer I SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking a Lean Engineer I that will support project ... Internship experience in construction or manufacturing (or related field/experience) * Current ...

Lean Engineer I

Pampa, TX · On-site

$78K - $98K/yr

Lean Engineer I SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking a Lean Engineer I that will support project ... Internship experience in construction or manufacturing (or related field/experience) * Current ...

SUMMARY Mortenson is currently seeking a Lean Engineer that will support our Battery Energy Storage ... Internship experience in construction or manufacturing * Prior experience on construction job sites ...

Learning Outcomes During this internship, the Operations Intern can expect to: * Gain practical experience applying Lean and OpEx tools in real operations. * Learn how to structure and execute ...

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How much do lean internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for lean internship in the United States is $15.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.50 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lean internship?

A Lean Internship is a training program where students or early-career professionals gain hands-on experience in applying Lean principles and methodologies within an organization. Lean focuses on improving processes, reducing waste, and increasing efficiency. During the internship, participants typically work on real projects, collaborate with teams, and learn how to identify and solve operational problems using Lean tools like value stream mapping or Kaizen. This experience helps interns develop practical skills in process improvement and prepares them for roles in operations, quality, or continuous improvement.

What types of projects do lean interns typically work on, and how do these projects contribute to organizational improvement?

Lean Interns commonly participate in process improvement projects, such as mapping workflows, identifying inefficiencies, and supporting the implementation of Lean methodologies like 5S or Kaizen. These projects often involve analyzing data to pinpoint bottlenecks, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and presenting recommendations to management. By working on these initiatives, interns gain hands-on experience in real-world problem-solving and help drive continuous improvement within the organization, making their contributions both meaningful and educational.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lean intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lean Intern, you need a basic understanding of process improvement principles, analytical skills, and often a background in engineering, business, or a related field. Familiarity with Lean tools such as 5S, Value Stream Mapping, and proficiency in Excel or data visualization software are commonly expected. Strong communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help interns contribute effectively to process improvement initiatives. These skills are important because they enable interns to identify inefficiencies, propose solutions, and support a culture of continuous improvement within organizations.

What is the difference between Lean Internship vs Six Sigma Internship?

AspectLean InternshipSix Sigma Internship
FocusProcess efficiency, waste reductionProcess variation, quality improvement
CertificationsLean certifications (e.g., Lean Green Belt)Six Sigma certifications (e.g., Six Sigma Green Belt)
Work EnvironmentManufacturing, healthcare, service industriesManufacturing, engineering, quality departments
Industry UsageCommon in lean manufacturing and operational rolesCommon in quality management and process improvement roles

Both Lean and Six Sigma internships focus on process improvement but differ in their approach. Lean internships emphasize waste reduction and streamlining workflows, while Six Sigma internships concentrate on reducing process variation and improving quality. Candidates often pursue certifications in both areas, and both are widely used in manufacturing and service industries to enhance operational efficiency.

More about Lean Internship jobs

What cities are hiring for Lean Internship jobs?

Cities with the most Lean Internship job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Lean jobs?

The most popular types of Lean jobs are:

What states have the most Lean Internship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Lean Internship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Lean Internship job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,333 per year, or $15.5 per hour.

Continuous Improvement Associate- Fordsville, KY

Fordsville, KY • On-site

Kimball International
Furniture Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago


Kimball International rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Roles and Responsibilities
  • Lead and/or participate in Continuous Improvement (CI) events throughout the facility to improve processes.
  • Support the implementation of process improvement activities throughout the facility.
  • Identify potential Continuous Improvement opportunities and events.
  • Verify the effectiveness of implemented process improvements.
  • Participate in the Lean Internship Program.
  • Support safety and environmental initiatives to better serve our employees and community.
  • Maintain effective communication between employees, management, support staff, other KI divisions, and customers as needed.
  • Identify and implement cost reduction opportunities.
  • Support and model the Company's Vision and Guiding Principles.
  • Support the Environmental Management System (EMS).
  • Follow all safety guidelines and use required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Follow and support Quality Systems.

Educational Requirements
  • Previous manufacturing experience required.
  • Successful completion of Lean Internship Program will be required upon hire.

Interpersonal Skills
  • Ability to provide balanced feedback.
  • Ability to maintain a positive attitude and sense of humor.
  • Ability to remain patient and manage emotions effectively.
  • Self-motivated and results-oriented.
  • Maintains a high degree of professionalism.
  • Strong decision-making skills.
  • Willingness to learn and continuously improve.
  • Tactful, assertive, honest, and ethical.
  • Flexible and adaptable.
  • Ability to build and sustain relationships.
  • Ability to achieve results through collaboration with others.

Technical Skills
  • Strong computer skills.
  • Strong follow-up and organizational skills.
  • Strong problem-solving abilities.
  • Good understanding of production processes.
  • Good understanding of Lean Manufacturing concepts.
  • Ability to work flexible hours as needed.
  • Experience participating in Continuous Improvement efforts within a team environment.
  • Understanding of statistical techniques.
  • Ability to safely operate and maneuver required tools and equipment during projects.

Communication Skills
  • Strong listening skills.
  • Effective written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent presentation skills.
  • Ability to communicate both technical and non-technical information.
  • Ability to teach and train others.
  • Ability to tailor communication to the audience.

Leadership Skills
  • Self-directed and highly motivated.
  • Leads by example.
  • Ability to coach and motivate team members.
  • Strong facilitation skills.
  • Effective relationship builder.
  • Ability to facilitate win-win solutions.
  • Ability to work effectively across multiple departments.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
  • Takes initiative and drives results.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Effective coaching and team-building skills.
  • Ability to adapt to and manage change.

Business Skills
  • Strong time management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities.
  • Strong planning and organizational abilities.
  • Ability to meet deadlines.
  • Results-focused mindset.
  • Strong recordkeeping and documentation skills.

Resume Required
Qualifications:
  • Minimum of 2 years of experience in a manufacturing environment focusing on Continuous Improvement (CI) initiatives, including leading or facilitating CI projects and Kaizen events.
  • Enhanced troubleshooting and administrative skills.
  • Leading improvement initiatives (Kaizen events) from conception through implementation. Oversee the success of Kaizen events, including:
  • Coordinate strategic and detailed plans.
  • Planning of events with a dynamic funnel process tied to Policy Deployment/Model Value Stream and Daily Management.
  • Develop and implement improvement strategies and initiatives.
  • Event execution and sustainment of Kaizen event results.
  • Lead/facilitate the implementation and sustainment of Lean tools (Visual Management, 6S, Kaizen, Value Stream Mapping, plan-do-check-act, Lean processes, etc.).
  • Ability to develop and deliver training programs to educate employees on Continuous Improvement concepts, tools, and techniques.
  • Applicants should be prepared to discuss specific Continuous Improvement initiatives or Kaizen events they have led or facilitated

Experience Requirements:
  • Previous manufacturing experience required.
  • Previous Continuous Improvement experience required.
  • Experience leading or facilitating Continuous Improvement initiatives and Kaizen events is required.
  • Resume required.

Please Note:
This is an hourly associate position. Previous manufacturing experience and direct Continuous Improvement experience are required for consideration. Candidates should have experience leading or facilitating CI initiatives.
Please include detailed information regarding your Continuous Improvement, Lean Manufacturing, and Kaizen experience on your resume.

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