Engineering & Operations Internship (m/w/d)

The Enviva team is driven by our shared vision for a renewable energy future. We are a fast-growing, purpose-driven, global energy company specializing in delivering sustainable wood bioenergy solutions. We are the world’s largest producer of sustainable wood pellets, which provide a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.

We are seeking a motivated and curious Engineering and Operations Intern to join our team and support process improvement and equipment reliability efforts at our manufacturing facility. This internship is a great opportunity for hands-on experience in a fast-paced industrial environment, learning from experienced professionals in process engineering, operations, and maintenance.

Project Overview

The project will focus on the plant's woodyard process island equipment regarding the reliability & availability of current equipment and the need for evaluating future equipment. The project will include the below:

• Understand the function and design of the existing equipment and how it impacts production
• Determine the best solution for Cottondale for the replacement equipment
• Create a mutually beneficial path forward for Cottondale and Epes Plants
• Opportunity to communicate with OEM, vendors, and other facilities within the company
• Execution of procurement for replaced equipment

Key Responsibilities

Engineering

• Assist with process improvement projects aimed at increasing efficiency, reducing downtime, and improving product quality
• Help collect and analyze technical data to support plant operations and equipment performance
• Learn how to use tools like Microsoft Excel, Power BI and project tracking systems to document and communicate progress
• Shadow team members to gain exposure to capital project planning, equipment reliability strategies, and continuous improvement techniques
• Assist in creating or updating procedures and documentation (SOP’s) as part of process improvement efforts
• Take part in plant meetings and improvement discussions to gain insight into team dynamics and operations
• Support data collection during process trials or maintenance events

Operations

• Support tracking and organizing spare parts, tools, and equipment in each of the 3 process islands.
• Help monitor equipment reliability, document maintenance tasks, and support troubleshooting efforts.
• Participate in root cause analysis (RCA) and corrective action planning related to process, safety, or equipment issues.
• Assist with collecting, analyzing, and presenting production or maintenance data to support decision-making.
• Collaborate with safety and operations staff to uphold plant safety standards.
• Shadow experienced engineers and operations leaders to learn lean manufacturing principles, continuous improvement techniques, and industrial best practices
• Support the troubleshooting of basic process and equipment issues under guidance from engineers and operation leaders

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering in Mechanical, Chemical or Electrical
• GPA of 2.7 or greater
• Strong interest in manufacturing and industrial systems
• Familiarity with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Willingness to work in a plant environment (includes hot, cold, or noisy conditions)

Benefits

• Gain hands-on experience in data analysis and control systems within a leading bioenergy company.
• Opportunity to work on a critical project with real-world impact on manufacturing efficiency and equipment reliability.
• Mentorship from experienced professionals in the field.
• Potential for future career opportunities within Enviva.

Physical and Work Environment Requirements

• Ability to walk, stand, or climb during plant tours or project work
• Must follow all plant safety guidelines, including use of personal protective equipment
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs occasionally with supervision

EEO Statement

Enviva is dedicated to the principles of equal employment opportunity (EEO) in any term, condition or privilege of employment. Enviva does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, ancestry, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, uniform service member, genetic information or any other status protected by law. Enviva complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which we operate.