Operational Excellence Intern - Summer 2027 - Manchester

Location: Manchester, UK

Cawood is the largest independent provider of analytical laboratory testing and sampling services for the land-based industries in the UK. With 15 sites around the country specialising in different types of analysis, we are always looking for skilled and talented individuals to join our teams.

This is an exciting time to join Cawood. The business is growing and there are plenty of opportunities for people who want to work hard, have fun and be part of our success.

Cawood Scientific is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Operational Excellence Intern to support key initiatives that drive continuous improvement across our site, located in Manchester, UK. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in Kaizen Fundamentals, process optimization, and team facilitation while contributing to strategic business priorities.

Summer Internship Opportunity – Operational Excellence

Duration: Summer 2027

Ensign-Bickford Industries (EBI) is a global leader with a strong reputation for innovation and excellence across multiple industries. Cawood, a member of the EBI family, is the UK’s and Ireland leading scientific group, recognised for its technical capability and value-added service to customers in land-based industries. We provide specialist laboratory analysis for the agriculture, food, and environmental sectors.

Our Vision: We are a Diagnostics company that exists to protect the future of food, agriculture, and the environment—turning diagnostics into actionable insights that drive transparency, productivity, and sustainability. In doing so, we create lasting value for our customers and ourselves.

We Focus On

• Agriculture Transparency and Traceability (info and knowledge)
• Insights that ensure Quality & deliver Productivity for our customers
• Environmental sustainability (supporting regulations and innovation)
• Human health (through food and environment)

We Do This By

• Developing best-in-class diagnostic solutions that drive actionability for our customers
• Pairing diagnostics with innovative services that deliver value to our customers and differentiate from competition
• Being a thought leader and consultative partner within the industries we serve

What You’ll Do

• Participate in the planning and execution of process improvement initiatives across the business.
• Contribute to Kaizen events and waste walks focused on identifying and eliminating inefficiencies.
• Document and present findings, recommendations, and outcomes to improve efforts.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency.
• Help build and sustain visual management tools including Daily Boards, Standard Work, and action trackers.
• Document and present findings, recommendations, and outcomes to improve efforts.

What We’re Looking For

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (Science, Engineering, or Business preferred)
• Strong analytical and process-oriented mindset
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Interest or experience in Lean, Kaizen, or operational excellence methodologies
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable facilitating discussions and leading small groups
• Curious, proactive, and eager to learn
• Willingness to travel to other business unit sites if needed

What You’ll Gain

• Practical experience in operational excellence and Kaizen methodologies
• Exposure to real-world business challenges and strategic initiatives
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Opportunities to lead and contribute to impactful projects
• A chance to build your professional network and enhance your career prospects
• Ready to make a difference this summer?
• Apply now and become part of a team that’s driving operational excellence across Cawood.