Operations & Process Improvement Internship

Job Title: Operations & Process Improvement Internship

Location & Duration: New York City Across 6 Studio Locations 810 Weeks

Compensation: $16.50/hour

Employment Type: Paid Internship 27 hrs/week for 8-10 weeks

Reports to: PM & Sr. Project Manager

Operations & Process Improvement Intern: NYC

alts Alteration Specialists is looking for a Operations & Process Improvement Intern

We are looking for a part-time Operations & Process Improvement Internship focused on workflow observation Lean methodology and client experience enhancement. This is a hands-on opportunity to observe and optimize the daily operations of three key studio roles: Studio Experience Coordinator (SEC) Front Desk Operator (FDO) and Tailor Shop Manager (TSM) across multiple studio locations.

Youll gain real-world experience applying Lean principles to high-touch service-oriented environments. From shadowing client interactions to developing process maps and improvement proposals this internship offers a unique opportunity to build operational and analytical skills in a dynamic retail-service setting.

This role is a paid internship but school credit can be received and a commitment of 27 hours a week with a minimum commitment of 10 to 12 weeks.

Responsibilities

In-Shop Observation (2 Days/Week):

• Shadow SECs FDOs and TSMs across 6 shop locations to observe day-to-day operations.
• Time and document core workflows: check-in intake fitting coordination work prep QC pickup etc.
• Observe team interactions and communication between roles (e.g. Front Desk Tailors).
• Evaluate the use and consistency of operational tools (e.g. Geelus Notion checklists).
• Identify inconsistencies bottlenecks and quality risks across roles and locations.
• Analyze physical workspace layout flow and accessibility.
• Assess operational tools in use (Geelus Notion checklists) and physical shop layout for efficiency.
• Study leadership and coordination practices by TSMs during peak operations.

Remote Analysis & Reporting (1 Day/Week):

• Create weekly Lean Observation Reports focused on:
  • Delays bottlenecks and quality risks.
  • Redundant actions and workflow breakdowns.
  • Examples of the 8 Lean Wastes (TIMWOODS).
    
• Develop process maps for critical client-facing workflows (e.g. rush handling garment pickup).
• Document Lean Wastes (TIMWOODS) and identify high-impact areas for improvement.
• Propose 12 improvement ideas per week ranging from quick wins to deeper system redesigns and process updates.

Attributes

• You are detail-oriented and observant. You excel at identifying small inefficiencies that lead to bigger issues.
• You are process-minded. You love systems flowcharts and breaking down complex tasks into optimized steps.
• You are proactive and analytical. You think critically about problems and are excited to offer data-driven solutions.
• You are curious and adaptable. Youre eager to learn from different roles and shop environments and are quick to adjust.
• You are collaborative. You enjoy shadowing cross-functional teams and learning how they interact to serve the client.
  You are a clear communicator. Whether writing a process map or presenting your findings your insights are crisp and structured.
• You are a systems thinker. You see the connection between small operational changes and broader client satisfaction.

Experience

• Enrolled in or recently graduated from a 4-year accredited university required
• Studying or degree in Lean Engineering
• Previous experience or coursework in operations project management customer service service design or luxury retail desired.
• Familiarity with Lean Six Sigma or continuous improvement is a plus
• Strong communication skills both written and verbal with an emphasis on professionalism and courtesy required
• Exceptional organizational and multitasking abilities to handle various tasks efficiently required

Why This Role is Compelling
As an Operations & Process Improvement Intern at alts youll get rare insight into how high-performing client-centric studios run from the inside out. Youll collaborate with team leads across multiple disciplines apply Lean frameworks to real-life challenges and deliver improvement proposals that could impact customer experience and shop efficiency. Whether youre exploring a career in operations service design or consulting this internship will build skills and experiences that carry forward and set you apart.

Many of our past interns have gone on to excel in roles at top-tier retail operations teams and consulting firms.

Compensation
This is a paid internship at $16.50 per hour with a commitment of 27 hours per week for 8-10 weeks