Continuous Improvement Engineer Intern (Summer 2026)
Gain hands-on experience improving real manufacturing processes through data analysis, time studies, and ERP systems while working alongside industry experts and presenting your impact to leadership.
We usually respond within three days
Location: Mallard Manufacturing – Sterling, IL
Program Duration: Summer 2026 (10 Weeks)
Pay range: $18–$25 per hour (based on location, experience, and academic level).
About Mallard Manufacturing
Mallard Manufacturing, a MacLean-Fogg Company, designs and builds engineered gravity flow storage systems for manufacturing and distribution facilities. Mallard’s pallet flow and carton flow solutions improve throughput, space utilization, and inventory control by matching system design to real operating constraints. The team supports customers through layout development, testing, and manufacturing to ensure systems perform on the floor, not only on paper.
Customers choose Mallard for practical engineering, durable build quality, and reliable delivery for material handling and warehouse operations.
Program Overview
Our Summer Internship Program offers real-world exposure to continuous improvement and industrial engineering practices in a manufacturing environment, giving you the opportunity to contribute to meaningful operational projects from day one. Over 10 weeks, you will gain:
Hands-on experience in process optimization, labor analysis, and data-driven decision-making.
Mentorship and guidance from experienced engineering and operational leaders.
A professional network across functions and facilities.
Career-ready analytical, technical, and professional skills.
What You’ll Do
As a Continuous Improvement Engineer Intern, you will:
Utilize ERP systems to extract, review, and maintain manufacturing and labor data.
Assist in updating routings, work instructions, and labor standards within ERP modules.
Analyze ERP reports to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for operational improvement.
Ensure data accuracy and consistency across ERP records to support planning and scheduling.
Conduct time studies and work measurement analyses to evaluate process efficiency.
Collect, analyze, and validate production data to establish standard times and labor benchmarks.
Support process mapping and workflow analysis to reduce waste and improve throughput.
Partner with production supervisors and operators to observe processes and document best practices.
Complete a capstone intern project and present results to leadership.
Qualifications
We’re seeking motivated students who are ready to learn, grow, and contribute:
Currently pursuing a degree in Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field.
Minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA (on a 4.0 scale).
Familiarity with ERP systems, data analysis, or process improvement tools preferred.
Exposure to lean manufacturing, time studies, or work measurement concepts is a plus.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Collaborative mindset with a willingness to take initiative.
Ability to work on-site at one of our locations for the duration of the program.
Compensation & Benefits
Skill development through hands-on learning.
Structured mentorship and feedback.
Networking opportunities with peers and professionals.
Experience presenting to leadership at program completion.
#MallardMFG
- Department
- Internship
- Role
- Intern - Continuous Improvement
- Locations
- Sterling, IL
- Hourly salary
- $18 - $25
- Employment type
- Internship
- Shift
- 1
- FLSA Status
- Non-Exempt
Why Join MacLean-Fogg?
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Competitive Pay & Rewards
Your hard work matters—earn competitive wages with recognition for your contributions.
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Health & Wellness Coverage
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, with 100% coverage for preventative care.
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On-Demand Pay with PayActiv
Access your earned wages when you need them—no waiting for payday.
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Future Financial Security
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Support for Families
Paid parental leave for all parents during life’s biggest milestones.
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Smart Savings Options
Health Savings Accounts (HSA) and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) to manage healthcare costs.
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Extra Wellness Perks
Tuition reimbursement, wellness equipment rebates, and free professional therapy sessions through Spring Health.
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Life & Accident Insurance
Protection for you and peace of mind for your loved ones.
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Disability Coverage
Income protection when the unexpected happens.
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Exclusive Vehicle Discounts
Save on new vehicles from leading manufacturers.
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Work-Life Balance Benefits
Flexible benefits tailored to your personal and family needs.
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Holiday Appreciation
Receive turkeys and hams to enjoy with your family during the holidays.
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Career Growth & Learning
Free access to LinkedIn Learning plus our Leadership Development Program to sharpen your skills and accelerate your career.
Diversity & Inclusion at MacLean-Fogg
Various agencies of the United States Government require employers to maintain information on applicants pertaining to factors such as race, sex, and type of position for which an individual applies. The information requested is voluntary and is for compliance with certain record-keeping requirements. MacLean-Fogg is dedicated to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We actively promote equal opportunity for all applicants, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristics. Discover more about your Equal Employment Opportunity rights as an applicant. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in our hiring process, please contact careers@macleanfogg.com.
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