About this role
<div style="border:none;border-bottom:solid #4f81bd 1.0pt;padding:0.0in 0.0in 4.0pt 0.0in"> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 15.0pt;padding:0.0in;font-size:26.0pt;font-family:Calibri, sans-serif;color:#17365d;border:medium none currentcolor"><span style="font-size:16.0pt">Job Description: Engineering Intern (Manufacturing)</span></p> </div> <p style="margin:0.0in 0.0in 10.0pt;line-height:115%;font-size:11.0pt;font-family:Cambria, serif">Location: Tenneco – Blacksburg, Virginia<br>Department: Engineering / Operations<br><br>Position Summary<br>The Engineering Intern will support the Blacksburg facility by assisting with process improvements, standardization, and daily engineering activities in a high-volume, unionized manufacturing environment. This role provides hands-on experience in production processes, data analysis, and continuous improvement, with a strong focus on developing and sustaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).<br><br>Key Responsibilities<br>- Assist in developing, updating, and standardizing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for production lines (Auto Lines, IROX, Material Prep)<br>- Support process improvement initiatives to increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve quality<br>- Collect and analyze production data to identify trends and performance gaps<br>- Participate in root cause analysis (5-Why, Fishbone, 8D support)<br>- Assist with continuous improvement (CI) projects, including 5S, layout improvements, and workflow optimization<br>- Provide daily production support, including troubleshooting and problem-solving with supervisors and engineers<br>- Observe and document processes to ensure compliance with standard work<br>- Support implementation of lean manufacturing principles<br>- Collaborate with Production, Quality, Maintenance, Supply Chain, and EHS teams<br>- Participate in and support safety initiatives, ensuring adherence to plant safety policies<br><br>Qualifications<br>- Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Industrial, Manufacturing Engineering, or related field<br>- Completed sophomore year preferred<br>- Strong interest in manufacturing and process improvement<br>- Basic knowledge of lean manufacturing and problem-solving tools preferred<br>- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint<br>- Strong analytical and organizational skills<br>- Effective communication and teamwork abilities<br><br>Key Competencies<br>- Attention to detail<br>- Problem-solving mindset<br>- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment<br>- Initiative and accountability<br>- Strong interpersonal skills<br><br>Working Conditions<br>- Manufacturing plant environment with regular time spent on the production floor<br>- Exposure to noise, moving equipment, and varying temperatures<br>- Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE), including safety glasses and steel-toe shoes<br><br>Physical Requirements<br>- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods<br>- Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds<br>- Ability to bend, stoop, climb stairs, and reach as needed<br>- Frequent use of a computer and standard office equipment<br><br>Schedule & Compensation<br>- Flexible schedule to accommodate academic commitments<br>- Typically 10–20 hours per week during the school term<br>- Opportunity for increased hours during breaks or summer<br>- Competitive hourly rate based on academic level<br><br>Learning Opportunities<br>- Hands-on experience in a high-volume automotive manufacturing environment<br>- Exposure to lean manufacturing, CI tools, and real-time problem solving<br>- Opportunity to work alongside experienced engineers and plant leadership<br><br></p>