Business Development Intern in Elk River, Minnesota at Metal Craft Machine & Engineering

METAL CRAFT, located in Elk River, MN is a precision machining company. Our company mission is to provide custom precision manufacturing and innovative services to medical, aviation, space, defense, and emerging high-tech industries.

We are seeking a motivated, energetic, and professional Intern to support our business development, marketing, customer service, and account management functions. This role is designed to provide broad exposure to customer-facing business operations within a manufacturing environment and offers the opportunity for future growth into a full-time role within one of these areas. The ideal candidate is interested in industrial operations, sales strategy, and building internal and external customer relationships.

The ideal candidate is someone who enjoys building relationships, communicating with customers, supporting business growth initiatives, and learning multiple aspects of a growing business environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This position may participate in one or more of the following duties as directed by supervision or management.

Maintain and update customer relationship management (CRM) systems

Assist with proposal preparation, presentations, and follow-up communications

Participate in sales and business development meetings as needed

Assist with development of marketing materials, presentations, and company communications

Help coordinate trade shows, recruiting events, and customer events

Conduct market and competitor research

Support internal and external communication efforts

Assist with responding to customer inquiries and routing requests appropriately

Help coordinate and prepare customer updates, status, timelines, and follow-up communication

Support issue resolution by working with internal departments

Maintain positive customer relationships through timely communication with assisting account managers with customer accounts and project coordination

Help track customer activity, orders, and account information

Collaborate with engineering, production, and supply chain teams to understand manufacturing capabilities and customer requirements.

Maintain accurate records of customer interactions and business development activities.

Assist with special projects related to operational growth and customer engagement.

Other miscellaneous duties as assigned.

Responsible to conduct yourself and ensure your subordinates (if applicable) conduct themselves in a manner consistent with company mission, values, code of ethics, policies, and other standards of conduct.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

Attending school for a degree in business administration or marketing

0-1 years of experience in a similar position in an office setting

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES

Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Sales, or a related field - Business, Marketing, Industrial Engineering, Supply Chain, Project management, Manufacturing Management, or a related field.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail

Positive attitude with a willingness to learn and take initiative

Ability to work both independently and collaboratively

Proficient in Microsoft Office programs including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint

Professional demeanor and customer-focused mindset

Analytical mindset with strong organizational skills.

Ability to work independently and in a team-oriented environment.

Interest in manufacturing, industrial sales, or operations preferred.

PREFERRED SKILLS

Basic understanding of manufacturing processes and supply chain operations.

Data analysis or reporting experience.

Presentation and project coordination skills.

LEARNING OPPORTUNTIES

Exposure to manufacturing operations and industrial sales processes.

Experience working cross-functionally with production, engineering, and commercial teams.

Development of professional communication, analytics, and customer relationship skills.

Mentorship from experienced business development and manufacturing professionals.

CORE VALUES

People – We can do it

Innovation – We work together

Service – We honor our word

Quality – We do what’s right

Monday-Friday 8:00AM – 4:30PM

Non-exempt (hourly)

Eligible for Paid Time Off (PTO) and holiday pay (part-time rate)

Metal Craft and Riverside are Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, age, or any other federally protected class.