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Process Optimization Internship Jobs in Niles, IL

... business process optimization initiatives. * Building financial models, business cases, and ... Experience: 0-2 years of work experience, including internships. * Technical Skills: Proficiency in ...

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Process Optimization Internship information

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How much do process optimization internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for process optimization internship in Niles, IL is $22.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.17 and $25.82 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 are the most commonly searched types of Process Optimization jobs in Niles, IL?

The most popular types of Process Optimization jobs in Niles, IL are:

What cities near Niles, IL are hiring for Process Optimization Internship jobs?

Cities near Niles, IL with the most Process Optimization Internship job openings:

Infographic showing various Process Optimization Internship job openings in Niles, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,924 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

2027 Entry Level Rotational Program Engineering - LEAP

Qnity

Schaumburg, IL

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Are you looking to power the next leap in the exciting world of advanced electronics? Do you want to help solve problems that drive success in the rapidly evolving technology and connectivity landscape? Then bring your problem-solving, passion, and creativity to help us power the next leap in electronics.

At Qnity, we're more than a global leader in materials and solutions for advanced electronics and high-tech industries - we're a tight-knit team that is motivated by new possibilities, and always up for a challenge. All our dedicated teams contribute to making cutting-edge technology possible. We value forward-thinking challengers, boundary-pushers, and diverse perspectives across all our departments, because we know we play a critical role in the world enabling faster progress for all. Learn how you can start or jumpstart your career with us.

At Qnity, our Early Career LEAP Rotational Program is designed to develop the next generation of engineering leaders through meaningful experiences across manufacturing, technology, automation, digital, and operations. We are seeking curious, agile, and collaborative engineers who are eager to solve complex challenges,leverageemerging technologies, drive innovation, and make a measurable impact from day one.

Through structured rotational assignments, participants gain broad business exposure, technical expertise, leadership development, and mentorship while building a strong foundation for long-term career success at Qnity. Participants will have opportunities to work on initiatives involving advanced manufacturing technologies, automation systems, digital manufacturing, smart factory concepts, process optimization, data analytics, and operational excellence.

In this program, you will contribute to projects focused on process improvement, product quality, equipment reliability, safety, automation, digital transformation, manufacturing intelligence, and business performance.

Rotational Opportunities May Include

  • Production/Process Engineering

  • Manufacturing Technology

  • Automation & Process Control

  • Digital Manufacturing & Smart Factory Initiatives

  • Equipment Reliability & Maintenance

  • Continuous Improvement

  • Product Quality

  • Technical Service

  • Operations Leadership

  • Data Analytics & Process Optimization

Program Locations

Participants may complete rotations at one or more of the following U.S. locations:

Wilmington, DE

Newark, DE

Marlborough, MA

Schaumburg, IL

Bayport, TX

Circleville, OH

Towanda, PA

Minimum Qualifications

  • Pursuing or holding a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline from an ABET-accredited institution at the time of employment.

  • Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

  • At least six months of relevant paid internship, co-op, or equivalent engineering experience.

  • Legal right to work in the U.S. without current or future need for visa sponsorship.

Program Expectations

  • 100% geographic flexibility to support developmental opportunities across program locations.

  • Willingness to relocate as business and development needs require.

  • Willingness to provide plant or manufacturing area support, including on-call responsibilities when required.

  • Commitment to completing a structured rotational program consisting of a minimum of 3 assignments, each approximately 18 months.

  • Ability to work effectively in manufacturing, operations, technical, automation, and digital manufacturing environments while collaborating across multiple functions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Demonstrated leadership experience through academic, professional, or extracurricular activities.

  • Strong initiative, adaptability, learning agility, and problem-solving skills.

  • Experience with automation, controls, robotics, manufacturing systems, or digital technologies.

  • Exposure to data analytics, process modeling, visualization tools, manufacturing intelligence platforms, or digital workflow tools.

  • Knowledge of continuous improvement methodologies and data-driven decision making.

  • Six Sigma Green Belt certification, or willingness to obtain certification during the program.

  • Exposure to root cause analysis, process hazard analysis, manufacturing operations, process safety, or automated production systems.

Why Join Qnity?

Join an industry-leading, world-class company with deep materials scienceexpertise, advanced manufacturing capabilities, and a strong culture of innovation. As a member of the Early Career LEAP Rotational Program, you will gain experience across multiple engineering disciplines while helping drive the future of manufacturing through automation, digital technologies, data-driven decision making, and continuous improvement.

You will work alongside experienced technical and business leaders, build a powerful professional network, and develop the technical, operational, automation, digital manufacturing, and leadership capabilities needed to accelerate your career. Our rotational program provides a unique opportunity to gain exposure to both engineering fundamentals and the advanced manufacturing technologies shaping the future of the industry.

You will become part of a distinguished community of program alumni who have advanced into key technical, operational, and business leadership roles across Qnity.

Join our Talent Community to stay connected with us!

Qnity is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability or any other protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to search or apply for a position, please visit ourAccessibility Page for Contact Information.

Qnity offers a comprehensive pay and benefits package. To learn more visit the Compensation and Benefits page.

We use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance our recruitment process.