Machine Operator Intern

The Aagard Group • Alexandria, MN

27d

About The Position

Key Obsessions: Operate Equipment Efficiently Help set up and operate CNC machines to produce parts that meet required specifications and delivery timelines. Monitor machining operations and make adjustments to maintain consistent performance and throughput. Accurately record part movement, run time, and material usage in the ERP system. Identify and recommend process improvements to increase equipment utilization and reduce cycle times. Produce Quality Parts Verify part quality by inspecting machined components against prints and specifications. Change tooling, fixtures, and setups as needed to maintain precision, repeatability, and quality standards. Troubleshoot machining issues promptly to prevent defects and minimize downtime. Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to enhance part quality and reduce rework. Maintain Equipment and Safety Perform routine preventive maintenance and promptly report issues to ensure equipment remains in optimal condition. Follow all safety policies, procedures, and work practices to protect yourself and your team. Complete housekeeping tasks and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area. Monitor equipment performance and collaborate with team members to identify and address potential risks before they impact safety or productivity. Core Accountabilities: Foster open communication, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration while upholding Aagard's values of Winning, Together, Honorably, Passionately, and Positively. Recommend and implement best practices to prioritize safety, improve productivity, reduce costs, and support continuous improvement initiatives. Maintain professional interactions with customers and vendors, representing Aagard accurately and positively. Overtime may be required based on business and customer needs. Team members may be asked to work before or after their scheduled shift or on non-regular workdays. Perform additional duties as assigned. Knowledge and Experience: Currently pursuing a degree in related field Passion for excellence and influencing positive change Ability to view and understand CAD drawings and use of Aagard software Familiarity with ERP systems and barcode scanning tools preferred Experience or training with computers and ability to learn and use Aagard specific software Must be highly safety conscious Strong prioritization, time management, organization, proactive decision-making, and attention to detail Sense of urgency and passion for excellence Ability to walk or stand up to 100 percent of the time Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or climb Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 75 lbs. (use two-person assist as needed) Intern Benefits Offered: At Aagard, we believe internships should be more than just a summer job—they should be a meaningful learning experience where you feel supported, valued, and connected. Housing Support Company-Paid Summer Housing: We are pleased to offer housing accommodations at Alexandria Technical & Community College: Foundation Hall. Aagard covers the full cost of summer housing, allowing you to focus on learning, growing, and enjoying your internship experience. Time Off Paid Time Off: Earn 1 hour of PTO for every 30 hours worked. Career Growth & Development Opportunities Pathways to Leadership: Build your future with mentorship and servant leadership programs. Educational Support : Scholarships and tuition reimbursement to help you grow. Unique Offerings That Set Us Apart Celebrate, Care, and Connect: Our on-staff chaplain is here to support you through life’s milestones, challenges, and celebrations. Team Building Events & Lunch & Learns: Connect, learn, and grow with your peers. Complimentary Perks: Enjoy fresh fruit, hot beverages, and local business discounts. At Aagard, you’re not just joining a company—you’re joining a team that cares . Your contributions matter here, and we’re proud to offer benefits that help you thrive at work and beyond.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a degree in related field
• Passion for excellence and influencing positive change
• Ability to view and understand CAD drawings and use of Aagard software
• Experience or training with computers and ability to learn and use Aagard specific software
• Must be highly safety conscious
• Strong prioritization, time management, organization, proactive decision-making, and attention to detail
• Sense of urgency and passion for excellence
• Ability to walk or stand up to 100 percent of the time
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs., stoop, kneel, crouch, crawl, or climb
• Ability to lift, push, or pull up to 75 lbs. (use two-person assist as needed)

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with ERP systems and barcode scanning tools preferred

Responsibilities

• Help set up and operate CNC machines to produce parts that meet required specifications and delivery timelines.
• Monitor machining operations and make adjustments to maintain consistent performance and throughput.
• Accurately record part movement, run time, and material usage in the ERP system.
• Identify and recommend process improvements to increase equipment utilization and reduce cycle times.
• Verify part quality by inspecting machined components against prints and specifications.
• Change tooling, fixtures, and setups as needed to maintain precision, repeatability, and quality standards.
• Troubleshoot machining issues promptly to prevent defects and minimize downtime.
• Contribute to continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to enhance part quality and reduce rework.
• Perform routine preventive maintenance and promptly report issues to ensure equipment remains in optimal condition.
• Follow all safety policies, procedures, and work practices to protect yourself and your team.
• Complete housekeeping tasks and maintain a clean, organized, and safe work area.
• Monitor equipment performance and collaborate with team members to identify and address potential risks before they impact safety or productivity.
• Foster open communication, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration while upholding Aagard's values of Winning, Together, Honorably, Passionately, and Positively.
• Recommend and implement best practices to prioritize safety, improve productivity, reduce costs, and support continuous improvement initiatives.
• Maintain professional interactions with customers and vendors, representing Aagard accurately and positively.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Company-Paid Summer Housing
• Paid Time Off: Earn 1 hour of PTO for every 30 hours worked.
• Pathways to Leadership: Build your future with mentorship and servant leadership programs.
• Scholarships and tuition reimbursement to help you grow.
• Our on-staff chaplain is here to support you through life’s milestones, challenges, and celebrations.
• Team Building Events & Lunch & Learns: Connect, learn, and grow with your peers.
• Enjoy fresh fruit, hot beverages, and local business discounts.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed