Retail Operations Leadership Intern

Location: West Columbia, South Carolina, us Department: Retail Operations (OPSTRAVELCENTER) Employment Type: {'id': 'permanent', 'label': 'Full-time'}

Company Description

Pilot Company is an industry-leading network of travel centers with more than 30,000 team members and over 750 retail and fueling locations in 43 states and six Canadian provinces. Our energy and logistics division serves as a top supplier of fuel, employing one of the largest tanker fleets and providing critical services to oil operations in our nation's busiest basins. Pilot Company supports a growing portfolio of brands with expertise in supply chain and retail operations, logistics and transportation, technology and digital innovation, construction, maintenance, human resources, finance, sales and marketing.

Founded in 1958 by Jim A. Haslam II and currently led by CEO Adam Wright, our founding values, people-first culture and commitment to giving back remains true to us today. Whether we are serving guests, a fellow team member, or a trucking company, we are dedicated to fueling people and keeping North America moving.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.

Military encouraged to apply.

Job Description

Are you passionate about leadership, operations, and creating exceptional experiences for guests and team members? Pilot Company is seeking ambitious and driven students to join our Field Leadership Academy Internship Program for Summer 2027. This unique leadership development experience is designed for students interested in pursuing a long-term career in retail operations and store leadership.

The Field Leadership Academy is a 10-week rotational internship that provides hands-on exposure to Pilot's retail operations while connecting participants with leaders across multiple areas of the business. Through meaningful experiences, mentorship, and structured development, you'll gain firsthand insight into what it takes to lead high-performing teams, drive operational excellence, and build a career path toward Assistant Manager, General Manager, and Field Leadership roles. The program is designed to create a clear pathway from internship to future full-time leadership opportunities within Pilot Company

What You’ll Do

Participate in a structured 10-week rotational leadership experience across key areas of Pilot's operations.

Gain hands-on experience supporting daily store operations, team leadership, guest service, and operational execution.

Shadow and learn from store, regional, and divisional leaders to better understand Pilot's leadership culture and business strategy.

Explore cross-functional areas including store operations, food operations, Human Resources, and field support functions.

Complete a capstone project that showcases your learning and provides recommendations to support business objectives.

Build relationships with leaders and mentors who will support your professional growth throughout the internship and beyond.

Create an individualized career development and conversion plan focused on future leadership opportunities within Pilot Company.

Why Pilot Company?

At Pilot, our purpose is to show people they matter at every turn. We believe our future success depends on leaders who can create exceptional guest experiences, build strong teams, and deliver operational excellence. The Field Leadership Academy was designed to help develop the next generation of those leaders by providing meaningful experiences, executive exposure, and a structured path toward future career opportunities.

Our culture is built on four core virtues: Driven, Reliable, Authentic, and Welcoming. Throughout the internship, you'll see these values in action while learning from leaders who are committed to your growth and development.

This is a full-time, paid, 10-week summer internship hosted in select Pilot markets across the United States. Participants will receive ongoing mentorship, career development support, and a personalized conversion plan designed to prepare them for future store leadership opportunities following graduation

Potential Career Path

Field Leadership Academy Intern → Store Leadership Opportunity → Assistant Manager Development → General Manager → Field Leadership

Qualifications

What We’re Looking For

Currently pursuing a bachelor's degree with an expected graduation date within 6 to 12 months following the internship.

Strong interest in retail operations, hospitality, business management, or leadership development.

Desire to pursue a long-term career in store or field leadership.

Demonstrated leadership experience through work, student organizations, athletics, volunteer activities, or other experiences.

Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to build relationships across all levels of the organization.

Adaptability, initiative, and a willingness to learn in a fast-paced operational environment.

Ability to travel within assigned host markets during the internship program.

Additional Information

Fuel Discount

Nation-wide Medical Plan/Dental/Vision

401(k)

Flexible Spending Accounts

Adoption Assistance

Tuition Reimbursement

Flexible Schedule

Weekly Pay