Intern (Operations SAN Wet)

Purpose of the Position 

As part of Simmons Foods, interns have the opportunity to work on improving the production of all of our products, and  a variety of other areas including Information Systems, Human Resources, Marketing and Communications and other  administrative functions. 

Essential Position Responsibilities 

Students are seeking opportunities that stimulate their interests and provide real-world experiences. The best way to  structure the interns work is to plan for the following three types of work: 

1. Project work: On day 1, the intern will be introduced to his/her team and presented with a 10 week  project. The project needs to be a solution seeking, challenging, real day problem that not only fits the  needs of your department/facility but also allows the intern to use his/her skills relating to their major of  study. The team will consist of the intern, supervisor, buddy (recent graduate 1-2 years out that will help  intern learn the ropes) and a mentor (ops manager or department head). Once a week, the team will be  required to meet and discuss the progress of the project. At the end of the summer, the intern could  present their project work to the Executive Team.  

2. Background work: This should be general work that is important and requires some skill. The purpose  of background work is to help intern understand the fundamentals of the process. In other words, learn  what the issue is that has caused the need for the assigned project so there is a better understanding of  how to begin the work/solution. 

The balance of the primary project, background, and day-to-day work will enable the intern to be productive and have  a well-rounded learning experience.  

Evaluation throughout the Internship 

Interns will look to their supervisor/mentor to help them transition from the classroom to the workplace.  Supervisor/mentors will be required to meet with Intern on a bi-weekly basis to provide feedback concerning the intern's  performance. During these meetings the following areas need to be discussed:  

● Project status 

● How their work is contributing to the organization 

● Discussion of interns strengths and areas needing growth and development 

● Insight about what work lies ahead 

● Address any questions the Intern might have

Final Evaluation  

In the last week of the program, the supervisor will need to complete the final evaluation (see attachment). Final  evaluations are helpful when determining the intern’s success within Simmons Foods for potential growth within  Simmons Foods and their personal career.  

Create a continuous improvement culture. Develops a continuous improvement culture in order to improve  processes and is continuously finding ways to drive out waste. Accomplishes quality performance which meets or  exceeds all line, department, facility, company, and USDA/FDA guidelines or grading process for a total quality  program and customer relations.  

Participates as a member of the Team. Participates in ongoing development, communication and implementation of  team concepts, programs and policies; coordinates work to ensure best practices with all team members. Attends  appropriate team meetings. As a member of the Team, fosters strong cohesiveness regarding all major issues; e.g.,  direction, annual plan, budget, policy changes, etc. Accepts responsibility to quickly identify any areas that lack  cohesiveness, bringing them to the attention of the team leader and working with the team in a supportive manner to  resolve issues and actively look for ways, and reinforces actions needed, to achieve synergy possible within the larger  organization. 

Simmons Operating systems principles and objectives: Is familiar with Simmons’ established operating systems  (e.g. quality, security, office environment, company policies); understands the responsibility to maintain familiarity with  the systems and this position’s role in support of these systems - including a consideration of the impact of individual  actions on the systems and the responsibility to communicate concerns and improvement ideas. 

Performs other duties as necessary in support of business objectives: This position description is intended to  guide the activities of the Supervisor Trainee and is not intended to limit the thinking and creativity of the person to the  work of this function nor is it intended that this describe all the work that may be required of the person in this position. 

Physical Activities: Must be able to work on feet for multiple hours, work in various temperatures, and the ability to lift  a minimum of 10 pounds.  

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): As required by visiting facility. 

Travel: Depending on assignment 

Technical Experience: Knowledge of business and management principles. Willingness to lead, take charge, and  offer opinions and direction. Ability to use computers and computer programs. Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite.  

Industry Experience: Preferred experience in manufacturing or poultry.  

 Minimum Education: In process of completing a degree program for a Bachelor's or Master’s Degree in related field of  position requirement.