Are you an ambitious student interested in supply chain, logistics, business analytics, or operations looking to apply your skills in a dynamic corporate environment? Pilot Company is seeking an Optimization Intern to join our Parts and Services Solutions (PSS) team in Knoxville, Tennessee, for the summer of 2027. This is a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience supporting strategic freight optimization initiatives that improve operational efficiency and drive value across the organization.
In this role, you will be an integral part of the Parts and Services Solutions team. Your primary responsibility will be to support freight optimization and continuous improvement initiatives that help reduce transportation costs and improve delivery times to Pilot stores and external customers. This internship offers the opportunity to work alongside cross-functional teams, apply data-driven decision-making and gain valuable experience in supply chain and logistics operations while being mentored by experienced professionals.
What You’ll Do
Support freight optimization initiatives: Assist with projects focused on reducing transportation costs and improving delivery efficiency across the Pilot network.
Contribute to continuous improvement efforts: Participate in Green Belt and process improvement initiatives that enhance operational effectiveness.
Analyze and consolidate order activity: Review data and identify opportunities to consolidate shipments across safety, supply and expense, procurement, and retail categories.
Collaborate across teams: Work closely with Warehouse Management, Procurement, Retail, Deli, Operations, and Product Category Management teams to support business objectives.
Measure and communicate results: Help track project performance and identify opportunities that drive measurable improvements in cost per shipment and overall supply chain efficiency.
What We’re Looking For
Education: Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Supply Chain Management, Transportation & Logistics, Business Analytics, Accounting or a related field.
Technical Skills: Strong analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Excel required. Experience working with large datasets and performing data analysis is highly preferred.
Soft Skills: Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to build relationships across multiple teams. We're looking for someone who is personable, adaptable and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Qualities: A strong interest in supply chain operations, logistics, and process optimization. We value individuals who are driven, reliable, authentic and welcoming.
Why Pilot Company?
Our culture is built on four core virtues: Driven, Reliable, Authentic, and Welcoming. As an intern, you will see these values in action every day. You'll be part of a team that is driven to deliver operational excellence, reliable in supporting business objectives, authentic in its collaborative approach, and welcoming to new ideas and perspectives.
This is a full-time, in-person internship running from June 7 – August 13, 2027. You’ll be working alongside our team in our Knoxville headquarters, where you’ll have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and experience the full scope of life at Pilot Company.
How to Apply
If you're ready to take on a challenging and rewarding internship with a leading company, please submit your application. The interview process will include a screening with a recruiter, a 30-minute virtual interview with the main supervisor, followed by a final round interview with the leader of Parts and Services Solutions. We look forward to hearing from you!
Job details are sourced from the employer's original posting.
Open job postingAbout the company
Pay Rates Starting between: $12.60 - $17.85 / hour Are you passionate about team building, customer service, and meeting new people? Pilot Company offers a dynamic environment where no two days are the same. Team members have the opportunity to build an inclusive atmosphere with their co-workers and make a better day for every type of guest – whether it’s the professional driver stopping for a clean shower, the commuter grabbing their morning coffee, or the vacationer needing their go-to snack along their journey. We embrace and celebrate our diverse guests and team members, who fuel creativity, innovation, and positivity. We strive to make every stop on your career journey — and our guests’ journey — a great one! Also, there are a number of opportunities to work in other roles within our travel centers and restaurants so while we may be hiring for a specific role, we always look to train and offer experience for other roles we have. We hope your next career stop is with us! Join our team and start your journey with Pilot Company.