Continuous Improvement Intern

Summary

Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to enjoy it than to intern with Amy’s Kitchen!

At Amy’s Kitchen, we're more than just a food company—we're a family-owned, proudly independent organic, and vegetarian food company on a mission. As a Certified B Corporation®, our purpose is clear: to make it simple and enjoyable for everyone to eat well. 

We're committed to crafting authentic, mouthwatering dishes using only the finest organic ingredients sourced with care. From farm to table, we ensure top-notch quality in every bite, making healthy eating accessible and convenient for all. At Amy’s, we're not just serving meals; we're serving up a taste of goodness, one delicious dish at a time. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Project Details:

This project will focus on auditing and updating the existing Kitchen Capacity Model and developing a new Frozen Capacity Model to optimize production planning and resource allocation within the manufacturing environment. These models will provide accurate capacity insights to drive continuous improvement initiatives and enhance operational efficiency. 

• Collaborate with the Continuous Improvement (CI) team to audit, analyze, and update the existing Kitchen Capacity Model, ensuring its accuracy and relevance for current operations.  

• Contribute to the development and implementation of a new Frozen Capacity Model, working closely with the CI team to define parameters, gather data, and build a robust and scalable model.  

• Identify opportunities for improvement within the capacity models, including streamlining data collection processes, enhancing model functionality, and increasing user accessibility.  

• Support the integration of the capacity models into relevant business processes, providing training and documentation to ensure effective utilization by stakeholders.  

• Monitor the performance of the capacity models, tracking key metrics and identifying areas for optimization and refinement.  

Participate in CI initiatives and projects, contributing to the development and implementation of process improvements across the manufacturing environment. This position requires strong attention to detail, technical expertise, and the ability to streamline maintenance processes for operational success. 

Qualifications and Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.  The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education 

• Attending four-year college or university to attain an Industrial Engineering, Business Management, Supply Chain Management, or similar Bachelor's degree; or already awarded Bachelor’s degree from four-year college or university. 

Required Skills

• Data Analysis and Modeling: Proficiency in data manipulation, statistical analysis, and building/maintaining mathematical models (ideally using tools like Excel, SQL, or specialized modeling software).  

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Familiarity with Lean principles, Six Sigma, or other continuous improvement frameworks.  

• Communication and Collaboration: Excellent communication skills (written and verbal) to effectively collaborate with the CI team, stakeholders, and other departments.  

• Attention to Detail: Meticulous approach to data collection, model building, and validation to ensure accuracy and reliability.  

• Technical Proficiency: Comfort with relevant software tools (e.g., Excel, Access, SQL, simulation software) and the ability to learn new systems quickly.  

• Manufacturing Process Knowledge: Understanding of manufacturing operations, production planning, and capacity constraints (specific knowledge of food manufacturing a plus).  

• Project Management Skills: Ability to manage tasks, meet deadlines, and contribute effectively to project goals.  

• Problem-solving: Ability to identify and analyze the root causes of problems and develop effective solutions.  

Language Skills

• Ability to read, analyze, and interpret the most complex documents. 

The noise level in the work environment can be moderate to loud depending on the location within the plant. 

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Amy's 

At Amy’s, we don’t just accept differences—we celebrate them, support them, and thrive on them for the betterment of our employees, our culinary creations, and our communities. 

Amy’s takes pride in being an Equal Opportunity and Second-Chance Employer and is equally dedicated to Affirmative Action and providing fair chances in our workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every individual has an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity, or Veteran status. 

For further details, please refer to Amy’s EEO Policy and EEO is the Law. Additionally, Amy’s is dedicated to collaborating with candidates and providing reasonable accommodations during the interview process. Should you require assistance, please contact us at careers@amys.com or notify your Recruiter.