Job Title: Operations & Process Improvement Internship
Location & Duration: New York City - Across 6+ Studio Locations 8-10 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.
You'll 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 1-2 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. You're 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, you'll get rare insight into how high-performing, client-centric studios run from the inside out. You'll 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 you're 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