Operational Excellence Intern

Daimler Truck AG • Detroit, MI

3d • $21 - $29 • Onsite

About The Position

The Operational Excellence Intern supports cross-functional teams in improving manufacturing and business processes across plant operations. The role focuses on continuous improvement, workflow analysis, and product and process enhancements to increase efficiency, quality, and overall performance. Interns collaborate with plant leadership, engineering, and production teams to identify opportunities, implement solutions, and help sustain operational improvements.

Interns gain knowledge and experience through real-life learning opportunities and work in accordance with DTNA’s core values of passion, respect, integrity, and discipline. Internship positions may be located at various DTNA locations across the United States and begin each summer in May or June. This position is onsite in Detroit, Michigan. Relocation assistance may be available when the selected candidate meets eligibility criteria. A transition into a full-time position may be possible, subject to manager evaluations and business availability.

Requirements

• Must be currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s program or higher at an accredited college or university, or have graduated within one year of the position start date in May or June.
• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Solid organizational skills.
• Creative mindset.
• Interpersonal skills and ability to work in a team environment.
• Must be legally authorized to work permanently in the country where the position is located at the time of application; the position is not open to visa sponsorship or existing visa holders.

Responsibilities

• Support Operations Excellence projects involving new product launches, equipment installations, facility or whitespace expansions, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with project planning, scheduling, milestone tracking, action item management, and stakeholder communications.
• Participate in process improvement activities using Lean Manufacturing principles and problem-solving methodologies.
• Collect, analyze, and interpret operational data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Develop and maintain project documentation, process maps, standard work instructions, and readiness checklists.
• Support cross-functional teams in Operations, Engineering, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and Manufacturing.
• Assist with equipment startup, commissioning, and operational readiness activities.
• Create reports, dashboards, and presentations using Microsoft Excel, Power BI, and other business tools to communicate project status and results.
• Participate in kaizen events, root cause analysis, and waste reduction initiatives focused on safety, quality, delivery, and cost improvements.
• Present project findings, recommendations, and completed deliverables to Operations Excellence leadership and key stakeholders.
• Identify opportunities for process optimization and efficiency enhancements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement improvements.
• May support development of training or change management materials and activities for new processes and procedures, including department SharePoint.
• Use appropriate data analysis methods, tools, and reports to predict, prevent, and support resolution of efficiency issues and roadblocks.
• Lead and support efforts to foster an inclusive and welcoming workplace culture where everyone belongs.

Benefits

• Professional development and networking events, including resume reviews and mock interviews.
• Housing and transportation stipend.
• Employee resource groups.
• Event ticket offering, based on corporate availability.
• Company social events.
• Relocation assistance may be available for eligible selected candidates.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern