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Process Optimization Internship Jobs in Ann Arbor, MI

Process Engineer

Dundee, MI · On-site

$70K/yr

You drive process optimization across our flagship operation located in Dundee, Michigan to ... A minimum of 1 year of experience, inclusive of internship/co-op experiences. * Working knowledge ...

New

You drive process optimization across our flagship operation located in Dundee, Michigan to ... A minimum of 1 year of experience, inclusive of internship/co-op experiences. * Working knowledge ...

New

... processing and motion control with worldwide service engineers, 24/7 technical support teams and ... Interns are eligible for some of the benefits listed. Our pay ranges are determined by role, level ...

New

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Process Optimization Internship information

See Ann Arbor, MI salary details

$13

$21

$29

How much do process optimization internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for process optimization internship in Ann Arbor, MI is $21.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.88 and $25.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a process optimization internship?

A Process Optimization Internship is a temporary position, often for students or recent graduates, where you assist organizations in analyzing and improving their business processes. Interns work under the guidance of experienced professionals to identify inefficiencies, suggest solutions, and sometimes help implement new strategies or technologies. This role often involves data analysis, process mapping, and collaboration with various departments to streamline operations and increase efficiency. Process Optimization Internships are common in industries like manufacturing, logistics, consulting, and finance. The goal is to gain practical experience while contributing to the organization's continuous improvement initiatives.

What types of projects can I expect to work on during a process optimization internship?

As a Process Optimization Intern, you'll typically be involved in projects that analyze and improve operational workflows within the company. This may include mapping current processes, identifying inefficiencies, collecting and analyzing data, and proposing actionable solutions. Interns often collaborate with cross-functional teams, such as operations, engineering, and quality assurance, to gather insights and implement improvements. These hands-on projects provide valuable exposure to real-world problem-solving and can help build a foundation for a career in process improvement or operations management.

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

To thrive as a Process Optimization Intern, you need a solid understanding of process analysis, data interpretation, and problem-solving, often supported by coursework in industrial engineering, operations management, or related fields. Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Excel, process mapping software (such as Visio), and data analytics platforms is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a proactive mindset help interns effectively collaborate with teams and identify improvement opportunities. These skills are crucial for analyzing current workflows and implementing solutions that enhance efficiency and productivity.

What is the difference between Process Optimization Internship vs Process Improvement Specialist?

AspectProcess Optimization InternshipProcess Improvement Specialist
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in engineering, business, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's in similar fields, with some certifications preferred
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in corporate or manufacturing environmentsFull-time role in corporate, manufacturing, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in companies seeking interns to support process projectsFull-time position focused on analyzing and improving processes
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, learning-focused roleProfessional role with ongoing responsibilities

The Process Optimization Internship is an entry-level, temporary position designed for students or recent graduates gaining experience in process improvement. In contrast, a Process Improvement Specialist is a full-time professional responsible for analyzing and enhancing business processes. While both roles focus on process efficiency, the internship emphasizes learning and support, whereas the specialist role involves independent project management and strategic improvements.

What cities near Ann Arbor, MI are hiring for Process Optimization Internship jobs?

Cities near Ann Arbor, MI with the most Process Optimization Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Optimization Internship job openings in Ann Arbor, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,141 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

$70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

New


Plastipak Packaging rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 67 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

86th of 122 rated packaging manufacturers


Job description

Clean Tech is looking for a Process Engineer at our recycling facility in Dundee, MI. As a Process Engineer and owner, you are a key hands on contributor to success of a recycling solutions leader. You drive process optimization across our flagship operation located in Dundee, Michigan to continuously improve safety, quality, efficiency and reliability, while decreasing cost.
What you'll be doing:
  • You will have the responsibility and ownership to maximize assigned processes through a hands on approach.
  • Review production reports looking to implement ways to reduce downtime, improve performance, create work instructions and trouble-shooting documents to help the workforce improve operation.
  • Analyze data and complete assessments to identify improvement opportunities in spending reduction, cycle time improvement, value added Labor tasks.
  • Gather information from maintenance staff, and operators on the process to help drive improvements.
  • Review parts used in process to verify best performance for cost, availability, and access. Make recommendations on any changes that may improve performance.
  • Coordinate, Schedule, and Participate in the Preventive Maintenance for the assigned process.
  • Oversee solution design, planning, implementation & follow-up to ensure expected results are achieved.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally in support for change management & process stabilization.
  • Participate in equipment installations and facility improvements, including business expansions.
  • Work with outside suppliers for proposals, quotes, and acquisitions as needed for process.
  • Assist in maintenance related projects in a hands-on approach. (Hands-on maintenance activities are a large part of this role)

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in related Engineering Field for Manufacturing.
  • A minimum of 1 year of experience, inclusive of internship/co-op experiences.
  • Working knowledge of developing and implementing process improvements and trouble shooting in a manufacturing environment.
  • Microsoft Office experience with good knowledge of Excel to create tables, trend graphs, and worksheets.
  • Mechanical Aptitude

Shift & Pay:
  • Mon-Fri 8a-5p
  • $70,000+/yr (DOE)

As a Plastipak Associate, you receive a benefits package offering the following:
  • Wellness Programs
  • Health Insurance Coverage, including Medical, Dental & Vision
  • EAP, Employee Assistance Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance
  • Disability Insurance: Short-Term & Long-Term
  • Accidental Insurance
  • Critical Illness Insurance
  • Hospital Indemnity Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan, with Company Matching Contribution & Profit Sharing feature
  • Paid Time Off - 80 hours within 1st year & subsequent increases
  • Paid Company Holidays
  • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
  • Caregiving via Care.com
  • Pet Insurance
  • Tuition Assistance Program
  • Sons and Daughters Scholarship Program
  • Travel Assistance
  • Employee Discount Programs

*Some benefits are subject to eligibility requirements
Plastipak is an Equal Opportunity Employer
In order to process your job application, Plastipak collects and stores the personal information that you submit via this website. Please refer to Plastipak's Privacy Policy to understand how Plastipak uses and protects the information that you provide.

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