Production Operations Associate - Summer Internship

ApplyDescriptionPosition OverviewUnderground Printing is seeking a detail-oriented and motivated individual to join our team in an entry-level Operations & Production Support role within our custom apparel manufacturing facility.This is a hands-on, floor-based position that supports daily operations across screen printing, embroidery, direct-to-garment (DTG), and heat transfer production. The role plays a critical part in maintaining supply flow, supporting production teams, and driving efficiency through lean manufacturing practices.This position is ideal for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment, identifying opportunities for improvement, and contributing to operational efficiency and cost control.Key ResponsibilitiesProduction Supply & Inventory ManagementMaintain and restock supplies across screen print, embroidery, DTG, and heat press departments to ensure uninterrupted production flowMonitor inventory levels, perform cycle counts, and support inventory accuracy across inks, garments, transfer materials, and consumablesSupport and sustain Kanban systems to improve material flow, reduce waste, and minimize downtimeIdentify supply gaps, overstock, and inefficiencies, and communicate opportunities for cost savingsProduction Floor & Operational SupportProvide hands-on support across production departments, including:Screen Printing (ink organization, staging, and press support)Embroidery (thread, backing, and workstation readiness)DTG (garment flow, pretreat support, supply staging)Heat Press / Transfers (material prep and workflow support)Assist with job staging, workflow organization, and general production needsSupport shipping, receiving, and fulfillment operations as neededCross-train across departments to build a strong understanding of production processes and constraintsLean Manufacturing & Continuous ImprovementMaintain and reinforce 5S standards across all production areasConduct routine floor audits to ensure organization, cleanliness, and adherence to standard workIdentify and escalate inefficiencies related to motion, material flow, overproduction, and downtimeSupport Kaizen (continuous improvement) initiatives focused on improving throughput, reducing waste, and lowering operational costsAssist in developing and sustaining visual management and standardized processesHealth, Safety & Facility SupportParticipate in routine safety and facility walkthroughsIdentify hazards, organizational gaps, and non-compliance with safety standardsSupport corrective actions and reinforce safe, efficient work practicesHelp maintain a clean, organized, and production-ready environmentWork Environment & Physical RequirementsActive, on-the-floor role within a production facilityFrequent standing, walking, lifting, and movement of materialsExposure to production equipment and varying workflow demandsFlexibility to support different departments based on business needsGrowth OpportunityThis role provides a foundation for growth into operations leadership, production supervision, logistics, or continuous improvement roles. Team members will gain hands-on experience across multiple apparel decoration methods and develop a strong understanding of manufacturing operations.RequirementsRequired:High school diploma or equivalent (post-secondary education in operations, supply chain, or engineering is a plus)Strong attention to detail and organizational skillsAbility to work in a fast-paced, hands-on manufacturing environmentWillingness to take initiative and support multiple departmentsPreferredBachelor’s degree (or recent graduate) in Industrial Engineering, Operations Management, Supply Chain, or related field Exposure to lean manufacturing principles (5S, Kaizen, Kanban)Experience in a manufacturing, warehouse, or production environmentBasic data tracking or problem-solving skillsFamiliarity with inventory processes or material flow concepts