Manufacturing Operations Intern, Spring 2027

About the Role

The Manufacturing Operations Intern role at Smurfit Westrock provides hands-on experience in a dynamic manufacturing environment, working on projects that drive operational excellence, sustainability, innovation, and continuous improvement. Interns will collaborate with experienced professionals to solve business challenges, improve manufacturing processes, and contribute to projects with measurable impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Support initiatives to improve safety, quality, efficiency, reliability, and productivity within manufacturing and operational teams.
• Analyze operational and production data to identify trends, uncover opportunities, and recommend solutions.
• Participate in projects focused on process improvement, cost savings, sustainability, and operational excellence.
• Assist in troubleshooting equipment and process challenges, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective actions.
• Support preventive and reliability-focused maintenance initiatives.
• Develop and present project findings, recommendations, and results to leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Champion a strong safety culture by adhering to and promoting company safety standards.
• Contribute to day-to-day operations while managing assigned project work and deliverables.

Collaboration & Culture

• Partner with cross-functional teams to communicate technical findings and project updates.
• Collaborate with operations, engineering, maintenance, quality, and leadership teams.
• Build professional relationships through mentoring, networking, and team-based projects.

Work Environment

Depending on the assignment, interns may work in:

• Manufacturing facilities, mills, converting plants, research and development environments, or corporate offices.
• Industrial environments, potentially with exposure to production equipment, machinery, noise, and varying temperatures.
• Fast-paced operational settings where safety is paramount.
• All interns are expected to follow established safety policies and procedures.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Curious, driven, and collaborative students eager to learn and make an impact.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in an accredited bachelor's or master's degree program in:
• Electrical Engineering
• Industrial & Systems Engineering
• Materials Science or Materials Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Packaging Science or Packaging Engineering
• Or a related engineering discipline.

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage projects effectively.
• Adaptability and flexibility.
• Demonstrated curiosity, initiative, and desire to continuously learn.
• Strong collaboration and teamwork skills.