Position Summary
As an Operations Co-op, you will play a key role in supporting daily manufacturing operations within a high-performance aerospace environment focused on fluid fittings. This role is heavily hands-on, with approximately 70–80% of time spent on the production floor supporting forge pressing and CNC machining operations, and the remainder in an office setting analyzing data and driving improvements.
You will partner closely with operations, quality, and engineering teams to execute 6S initiatives, continuous improvement projects, and performance/quality audits. This role is designed to develop practical manufacturing and leadership skills while building a strong foundation in aerospace production systems.
Candidate must be able to work full-time (40 hrs/week as a co-op) or part-time (20 hrs/week as an intern) for a total of ~480 hours.
Primary Duties & Responsibilities
• Support daily production activities on the shop floor, ensuring adherence to safety, quality, and operational standards
• Execute and sustain 6S initiatives (Sort, Set in Order, Shine, Standardize, Sustain, Safety) across forge and machining areas
• Conduct process, quality, and performance audits, identifying gaps and driving corrective actions
• Monitor and analyze key performance metrics such as scrap, first-pass yield, throughput, and overall equipment efficiency (OEE)
• Partner with engineering and operations to implement continuous improvement projects focused on productivity, cost reduction, and process capability
• Assist with root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions (RCCA) for quality and production issues
• Support forge pressing and CNC machining operations through observation, data collection, and process verification
• Ensure compliance with work instructions, routers, and aerospace quality standards (e.g., AS9100 practices)
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment while identifying and mitigating safety risks
• Assist with production scheduling support, work order management, and documentation control
• Collaborate cross-functionally with operators, supervisors, quality, and engineering teams
• Participate in kaizen events, process trials, and new product/process introductions
• Perform other duties as assigned
Required Skills
• Strong mechanical and technical aptitude with interest in manufacturing processes
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and solve problems
• Basic understanding of manufacturing principles (lean manufacturing, process flow, standard work)
• Familiarity with quality tools such as root cause analysis, Pareto charts, and basic statistical methods
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, and process documentation
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage effectively on the shop floor and with cross-functional teams
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint); data analysis skills preferred
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Preferred Experience
• Hands-on experience in a manufacturing environment (internship, co-op, or prior work)
• Exposure to forging, metal forming, or CNC machining processes
• Experience with lean manufacturing or continuous improvement initiatives (5S/6S, kaizen, value stream mapping)
Level Of Education
• Currently pursuing a BS Degree in Engineering and/or Business Management – Mechanical, Aerospace, Industrial, or Manufacturing Engineering preferred. Must have completed at least their freshman year.
Physical Demands
• The physical demands outlined here represent those required to perform the job's essential functions. Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities.
• Daily tasks may include using hands to handle materials and equipment, reaching with hands and arms, and communicating verbally.
• Occasional tasks may require standing, walking, climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, or crawling.
• Occasional lifting and/or moving of up to 20 pounds may be required.
• Specific vision abilities, such as close vision and color vision, and the ability to adjust focus are needed.
Work Environment
• The work environment characteristics described here represent those encountered while performing the essential job functions. Reasonable accommodation may be made for individuals with disabilities.
• The work environment may involve occasional exposure to airborne particles and vibrations.
• The noise level in the work environment is typically moderate.
