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Program Overview

The Jewel-Osco Summer Business Internship Program offers a hands-on, real-world learning experience designed to expose students to the dynamic grocery retail environment. This structured 10-week program provides a comprehensive understanding of our business operations while preparing students for future leadership opportunities within the organization.

Interns will gain direct experience across key areas including store operations, managerial functions, production, customer service, and employee relations. The program also serves as a pipeline for high-performing candidates to be considered for future Store Management Trainee (SMT) roles.

Our internship program is highly competitive—each year, over 600 candidates apply, with approximately 35 interns selected to participate.

Program Highlights

• Hands-on experience in a fast-paced retail store environment
• Exposure to leadership, operations, and business decision-making
• Structured learning through a combination of in-store and corporate experiences
• Opportunity to work alongside Store Directors, District Managers, and Senior Leadership
• Participation in exclusive professional development sessions and field experiences

Key Responsibilities

• Engage in daily store operations, gaining exposure to multiple departments
• Learn and support core managerial functions including staffing, scheduling, and performance management
• Deliver exceptional customer service while understanding service strategy and execution
• Participate in employee relations activities and observe leadership approaches in a retail environment
• Collaborate with peers on a business-critical group project
• Demonstrate initiative, adaptability, and a willingness to learn in a fast-paced environment

Business Project Experience

Interns will be assigned to a team-based business project focused on addressing real challenges facing the company. Projects are selected by Senior Leadership and aligned with current business priorities.

• Partner with a corporate project sponsor for guidance and mentorship
• Conduct research, analyze data, and develop actionable recommendations
• Present findings and solutions to Senior Leadership during a formal final presentation

Professional Development & Field Experiences

Interns will participate in a variety of out-of-store experiences designed to enhance leadership and business skills, including:

• Leadership Development Class
• Effective Presentation Skills Training
• Mid-Point Meeting at Distribution Center
• Store Ride-Along with a District Manager
• Final Presentation Rehearsal and Executive Presentation

Schedule & Compensation

• Full-time, 40 hours per week for 10 weeks
• Combination of in-store experience, project work, and corporate programming
• Competitive hourly pay

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a 4-year college or university
• Minimum sophomore or junior standing at the time of application
• Open to all majors
• Open to both internal and external candidates
• Demonstrated leadership potential, whether through work, school, or extracurricular involvement
• Ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment, take initiative, and proactively solve problems
• Strong communication, teamwork, and interpersonal skills
• Interest in retail, operations, and pursuing a career in leadership

Why Join Jewel-Osco?

At Jewel-Osco, we are committed to developing future leaders. This internship provides a unique opportunity to gain meaningful experience, build professional connections, and make a real impact on business all while exploring a potential long-term career path with our organization.