Research And Development Intern Jobs in Michigan

Business Development Intern

PIE&G Connect | Onaway, Michigan Part-Time (Minimum 20 Hours per Week)

About PIE&G Connect

PIE&G Connect is bringing world-class fiber internet to Northern Michigan. As a member-owned cooperative, we are committed to delivering fast, reliable internet service while strengthening the communities we serve. We are looking for an energetic, motivated Business Development Intern to help us connect local businesses and residents with the advantages of fiber internet.

Position Summary

The Business Development Intern will play a key role in supporting PIE&G Connect's business and residential growth efforts. This individual will learn the ins and outs of our fiber internet products and services, proactively reach out to local business and residential prospects, and help guide prospective customers through the sales and onboarding process.

This position is ideal for a current college student or recent graduate seeking hands-on experience in sales, marketing, telecommunications, business development, and customer engagement.

This position offers a unique opportunity to directly contribute to the growth of Northern Michigan's fastest-growing fiber network while developing valuable business development, sales, and customer relationship skills.

Key Responsibilities

Product Knowledge & Training

• Learn and master PIE&G Connect's fiber internet technology, products, service packages, pricing, and competitive advantages.
• Stay informed about current promotions, offers, and service availability.
• Communicate the benefits of fiber internet clearly and confidently to prospective customers.

Business Outreach & Relationship Building

• Research and identify local business prospects within the PIE&G Connect service area.
• Reach out to interested residential prospects
• Conduct outbound calls, emails, and other outreach efforts to introduce PIE&G Connect and its services.
• Educate prospects on the advantages of locally owned, fiber-based internet service.

Appointment Setting & Sales Support

• Schedule in-person meetings for a PIE&G Connect manager when appropriate.
• Assist in preparing prospect information and maintaining accurate records of outreach activities.
• Follow up with interested prospects and help move opportunities through the sales process.

Customer Onboarding Support

• Assist prospective customers with completing service applications and required paperwork.
• Serve as a resource for customers during the signup process.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure a smooth customer experience from initial contact through installation.

Qualifications

• Current college student pursuing a degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, Sales, Technology, or a related field or a recent college graduate (within the past two years).
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable speaking with business owners and decision-makers.
• Self-motivated with a positive, professional attitude.
• Organized and detail-oriented.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office and basic business software.
• Ability to work independently while also collaborating with team members.
• Interest in sales, marketing, telecommunications, technology, or business development preferred.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation preferred.

Compensation

• $20.00 per hour
• Performance bonus opportunity for each new business account activated and installed as a result of the intern's efforts. The bonus amount may vary based on the service package selected and the overall account value.
• Flexible part-time schedule (minimum 20 hours per week)

What You'll Gain

• Real-world business development and sales experience.
• Exposure to fiber broadband technology and the telecommunications industry.
• Networking opportunities with local business leaders.
• Experience working for a growing member-owned cooperative.
• Opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the communities we serve.
• The ability to earn additional compensation through successful customer acquisition and account growth.

To Apply

Interested candidates should submit a resume and brief statement of interest explaining why they would like to join the PIE&G Connect team.