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Ventura Coastal, LLC

Operations Intern (71735)

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Position Summary

The Operations Intern will gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced citrus juice manufacturing environment. This internship provides exposure to daily plant operations, production processes, and leadership development through direct shadowing of supervisors and participation in key operational initiatives.

This role is designed for high-potential students in their final year of study who are interested in manufacturing operations, with strong potential for full-time employment upon successful completion of the program.

The Operations Intern reports directly to the Assistant Plant Manager.

Key Responsibilities

  • Shadow production and operations supervisors to learn daily workflows, decision-making processes, and leadership practices.

  • Support monitoring of production lines to help ensure efficiency, safety, and quality standards are consistently met.

  • Assist with scheduling, staffing coordination, and shift planning activities.

  • Participate in continuous improvement initiatives and operational optimization projects.

  • Observe and support compliance with food safety and quality standards, including GMP and HACCP requirements.

  • Assist with data collection, reporting, and basic analysis of production performance metrics.

  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Quality Assurance, Maintenance, and Logistics.

  • Attend operational meetings, safety briefings, and production reviews.

  • Complete assigned projects focused on improving efficiency, reducing waste, and supporting operational improvements.

  • Learn and apply industry best practices in manufacturing operations and food safety compliance.

  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Learning Objectives

  • Develop a comprehensive understanding of citrus juice manufacturing operations.

  • Gain exposure to leadership and supervisory responsibilities through mentorship and shadowing.

  • Build foundational knowledge of food safety, quality assurance, and production management systems.

  • Strengthen analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills in a real-world manufacturing environment.

Qualifications

  • Currently enrolled in the final year of a Bachelor’s degree program in Engineering (Production, Chemical, or related field).

  • Strong academic performance with potential for full-time employment upon graduation.

  • Demonstrated interest in manufacturing, operations, or food production environments.

  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

  • Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.

  • Strong desire to learn, grow, and develop professionally.

Physical Requirements

  • Approximately 50% of time spent standing, walking, and moving throughout plant areas.

  • Approximately 50% of time spent in an office environment working on a computer, attending meetings, or communicating with staff and contractors.

  • Ability to work in varying temperature environments, including cold storage areas.

  • Must not have restrictions related to confined spaces or heights.

  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds occasionally.

Schedule & Duration

  • Flexible schedule based on academic requirements; may include early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

  • Internship duration: 4–6 months, with potential for full-time employment upon successful completion.

Why Join Us?

  • Hands-on experience in a real manufacturing environment

  • Direct mentorship from experienced operations leaders

  • Exposure to multiple departments and operational functions

  • Opportunity to build a foundation for a long-term career in manufacturing

  • Potential pathway to full-time employment upon graduation