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Continuous Improvement Intern (Summer 2027)

Zurn Elkay · Freeport, IL · Full time

Posted Sep 25, 2026 · We last checked this listing on Oct 6, 2026

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Likely interview questions for this role

Written from this job description, not a generic list. Each one notes what the interviewer is really checking.

About your past

Tell me about a project where you improved something and measured the result.

What they are checking: Whether they connect improvements to real data, not just opinions.

Tell me about a time a project you worked on did not succeed.

What they are checking: Whether they learn from failure and stay persistent.

Why are you interested in a plant role in Freeport for the summer?

What they are checking: Whether they want hands-on manufacturing experience and understand the setting.

What would you do

An operator is skeptical of your improvement idea. How do you win them over?

What they are checking: Whether they involve operators and earn trust instead of forcing changes.

How would you prioritize between three improvement ideas with limited time?

What they are checking: Whether they weigh impact and effort to choose the best project.

How do you present results to plant leadership?

What they are checking: Whether they can communicate clearly and recommend action to busy managers.

About the work

What does continuous improvement mean to you in a manufacturing plant?

What they are checking: Whether they understand it as ongoing, data-driven work with operators, not one-time projects.

Walk me through how you would run a root cause analysis on a recurring defect.

What they are checking: Their command of tools like 5 Whys or fishbone diagrams to find true causes.

What lean or Six Sigma tools have you used or studied?

What they are checking: Their foundation in methods the plant likely uses to cut waste and improve quality.

How would you set up 5S in a work area that is disorganized?

What they are checking: Their practical understanding of workplace organization and how to make it last.

Practice this interview out loud.

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The full job description

As published by Zurn Elkay.

Continuous Improvement Intern (Summer 2027) The Company Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation is a thriving, values-driven company focused on doing the right things. We’re a fast growing, publicly traded company (NYSE: ZWS), with an enduring reputation for integrity, giving back, and providing an engaging, inclusive environment where careers flourish and grow. Named by Newsweek as One of America’s Most Responsible Companies and an Energage USA Top Workplace, at Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation, we never forget that our people are at the center of what makes us successful. They are the driving force behind our superior quality, product ingenuity, and exceptional customer experience. Our commitment to our people and their professional development is a recipe for success that has fueled our growth for over 100 years, as one of today’s leading international suppliers of plumbing and water delivery solutions. Headquartered in Milwaukee, WI, Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation employs over 2800 employees worldwide, working from 24 locations across the U.S., China, Canada, Dubai, and Mexico, with sales offices available around the globe. We hope you’ll visit our website and learn more about Zurn Elkay at zurnelkay.com. If you’re ready to join a company where what you do makes a difference and you have pride in the work you are doing, talk to us about joining the Zurn Elkay Water Solutions Corporation family! If you are a current employee, please navigate here to apply internally. The Continuous Improvement internship gives students the opportunity to participate in exciting front-line business support functions. As an intern with Zurn Elkay, you will be part of the ZEBS (Zurn Elkay Business Systems) team, where you will have the opportunity to participate in leadership development and networking activities to gain exposure to Zurn Elkay culture and leadership. The ZEBS Intern will also have opportunity to develop general business and leadership skills while supporting the continuous improvement needs of a specific site / function. Responsibilities • Partner with leaders, to assess current processes and identify process improvement opportunities. • Manage the process of selecting, scoping, prioritizing, and executing CI projects including review of resource utilization. • Collaborate with leadership to create best practices related to all functions to further align with overall business strategy. • Develop and manage financial benefit and key performance indicator bowlers related to major activities. • Support on-site visual daily management (VDM) and continuous improvement (#CI) goals. Experience and Skill Required • Currently pursuing bachelor’s degree: engineering preferred • Lean experience desired • Interest in mechanical tools, equipment, and processes (mechanical aptitude/hands on experience a plus) • Strong problem-solving skills • Strong oral and written communication skills Leadership Competencies • Action Oriented – Taking on new opportunities and tough challenges with a sense of urgency, high energy, and enthusiasm. • Customer Focus – Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions. • Instills Trust – Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity. • Optimizes Work Processes – Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement. • Self-Development – Actively seeking new ways to grow and be challenged using both formal and informal development channels **THIRD PARTY AGENCY: Any unsolicited submissions received from recruitment agencies will be considered property of Zurn Elkay, and we will not be liable for any fees or obligations related to those submissions.** E qual Opportunity Employer – Minority/Female/Disability/Veteran

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