Magna Engineered Glass: Continuous Improvement Intern

Job descriptions may display in multiple languages based on your language selection.
What we offer:
At Magna, you can expect an engaging and dynamic environment where you can help to develop industry-leading automotive technologies. We invest in our employees, providing them with the support and resources they need to succeed. As a member of our global team, you can expect exciting, varied responsibilities as well as a wide range of development prospects. Because we believe that your career path should be as unique as you are.
Group Summary:
The Magna Exteriors portfolio of products includes access systems such as liftgates, exterior trim, modular systems, front-end modules including fascia, active aerodynamic systems and other lightweight structural components for automotive, commercial truck and other industrial markets.
Recognized globally as an innovator in all aspects of vehicle exteriors, Magna provides everything needed, from materials development and design through manufacturing and assembly, to help automakers create sleek, state-of-the-art vehicles across the world.
Job Responsibilities:
JOB SUMMARY:
The Continuous Improvement Intern supports the World Class Manufacturing (WCM) Manager in executing key continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen operational performance and build a culture of problem solving. This role is responsible for supporting the Forward Thinkers Program (employee suggestion program) and Model Line implementation activities.
The WCM Intern ensures structured follow-up on improvement ideas, supports data tracking and process optimization, and contributes to building sustainable, employee-driven continuous improvement across the organization.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support the rollout, administration, and ongoing tracking of the Forward Thinkers Program (Employee Suggestion Program) to drive employee engagement and idea implementation.
• Coordinate follow-up with idea owners, ensuring timely progress updates, accurate documentation, and closure of improvement actions.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and visual communications to highlight progress, impact, and participation metrics.
• Assist with Model Line development and implementation, supporting best-practice standardization and operational excellence.
• Participate in 5S, visual management, and standard work initiatives to improve workplace organization, efficiency, and consistency.
• Collect, analyze, and validate cycle time, process flow, and performance data to support continuous improvement opportunities.
• Create and maintain training materials, work instructions, and visual tools to reinforce standardized processes.
• Provide regular status updates, insights, and recommendations to the WCM Manager.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.
• Actively contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment, demonstrating flexibility to adapt to evolving business needs and priorities.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at an accredited college or university, majoring in Engineering, Operations Management, Industrial Technology, Business Administration, or related field. Junior or Senior status preferred. Preference given to students attending a Michigan-based institution.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and documentation skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Teams).
• Interest in Lean, Continuous Improvement (CI), or World Class Manufacturing (WCM) preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and independently.
• Knowledge of safety standards and protocols in manufacturing environments.
• English proficiency required, with strong verbal and written communication skills. Bilingual (Spanish) preferred.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

• Office Environment: 40%
• Plant Environment: 60%
• The employee must be able to tolerate both sitting and standing for extended periods of time.
• Must be able to tolerate the use of a keyboard and mouse on average of 4-8 hours per workday.
• While working in the Plant environment, the employee will be exposed to machinery, moving equipment and material, moderate noise, airborne particles, fumes, and various levels of temperature created by the manufacturing process.
• This role operates in both the office area and manufacturing facility.
• Occasional travel may be required to attend meetings. Travel requirements for this position are estimated at 5% per month.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Prolonged standing at least 4 hours, but up to 8 hours per day.
• Lift objects weighing up to 35 pounds multiple times per shift.

KEY COMPETENCIES:

• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Regularly question the status quo, propose practical improvements, and support others in adopting better methods.
• Analytical Thinking: Break down problems into clear components, use data to guide decisions, and evaluate alternatives logically.
• Initiative & Willingness to Learn: Proactively seeks out tasks, take ownership of new challenges, and absorb new concepts quickly.
• Accountability & Follow-through: Keeps commitments, closes action items on time, and communicates promptly when obstacles arise.
• Team Collaboration: Works effectively with cross-functional partners, shares information openly, and supports team objectives.
• Attention to Detail: Ensures accuracy in documentation, data collection, and reporting while identifying inconsistencies or errors.

Awareness, Unity, Empowerment:
At Magna, we believe that a diverse workforce is critical to our success. That's why we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We hire on the basis of experience and qualifications, and in consideration of job requirements, regardless of, in particular, color, ancestry, religion, gender, origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability or gender identity. Magna takes the privacy of your personal information seriously. We discourage you from sending applications via email or traditional mail to comply with GDPR requirements and your local Data Privacy Law.
AI-Assisted Screening Disclosure
As part of our commitment to a fair, consistent, and efficient recruitment process, we may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the initial screening of applications submitted through our Workday system. These tools help identify qualifications and experience that align with the role requirements. Please note that AI is used solely to support our recruiters. Final decisions are always made by the hiring manager and the hiring team. Importantly, no applicant data is shared externally through these AI tools. All information remains securely within our systems and is handled in accordance with our privacy and data protection policies.
Under conditions defined by applicable law, you may have the right to request an explanation of how AI is used to support decision-making.
If you have any questions or concerns about this process, feel free to contact our Talent Attraction team.
Worker Type:
Intern (Fixed Term) (Trainee)
Group:
Magna Exteriors