Manufacturing Lean Intern

Slate Auto

Posted 3 months ago

Internship

Warsaw, Indiana

In Person

Smart Summary

Responsibilities

Support Lean initiatives on the shop floor by implementing 5S, identifying waste, and documenting standard work. Analyze KPI metrics and audit results using tools like Excel and Power BI to drive operational excellence.

Qualifications

You are currently pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, or Data Analytics. You possess a basic understanding of Lean principles and continuous improvement concepts, with proficiency in Microsoft Excel, and strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Must Have Skills for ATS

Lean manufacturing

5S

TIMWOODS

Standard Work

Visual Management

Kaizen

Layered Process Audits (LPA)

EASE audit software

SQDCP

OEE

FPY

Power BI

Excel

Job Description

ABOUT SLATE

At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them.

| WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

We are seeking motivated Continuous Improvement Interns to support Lean initiatives within our manufacturing operations. These roles will contribute directly to DV readiness and production launch by improving process flow, strengthening audit systems, and supporting data-driven decision making. 

The ideal candidates are eager to learn, hands-on, and passionate about Lean, problem-solving, and operational excellence. This is a unique opportunity to gain real-world experience in a fast-paced, startup manufacturing environment while helping build a world-class production system. 

| WHAT YOU GET TO DO:

Lean Operations (Shop Floor Focus) 

  • Support 5S implementation and sustainment across production areas  

  • Observe processes and identify waste (TIMWOODS)  

  • Assist in development and documentation of standard work  

  • Support visual management systems (KPI boards, CI boards, shadow boards)  

  • Participate in Kaizen events and continuous improvement activities  

  • Assist with Layered Process Audits (LPA) and follow-up actions  

Data & Systems (Analytics Focus)

  • Support implementation and use of EASE audit software (5S)  

  • Track and analyze KPI metrics (SQDCP, OEE, FPY)  

  • Build and maintain reports and dashboards (Excel/Power BI)  

  • Analyze audit results to identify trends and improvement opportunities  

  • Support tracking of CI projects and cost savings initiatives  

| WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM:

Education

  • Currently, pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing, Business, Data Analytics, or related field

Experience

  • Prior internship or exposure to manufacturing or Lean principles (preferred, not required)

Skills

  • Basic understanding of Lean principles and continuous improvement concepts  

  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills  

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Power BI a plus)  

  • Strong communication and teamwork skills  

  • Ability to work in a hands-on, shop-floor environment  

WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE?

At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles.

  • Safety First

  • Delight Customers

  • One Team

  • Relentless Improvement

  • Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy

  • Respectful Collaboration

  • Positive Legacy

WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE.

Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason.

Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at

slate-talent_acquisition@slate.auto.

Slate Auto

At Slate, we’ve got one job: building a vehicle you’ll fall in love with. We believe that car buyers—not car companies—should call the shots. We like looking at a road, not a screen. We don’t like paying for stuff we don’t need.
We like picking out the stuff we do need. We think dings are badges, not blemishes. But we know not everyone likes what we like. So, we built you a Slate: you make it yours.
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