About the role#
This 13-week summer internship provides hands-on experience across the design, production, customer service, and sales departments. You will work with a mentor to build foundational knowledge of the packaging industry and our sales processes. Interns also participate in a corporate office visit in Lake Forest, Illinois, to meet with leadership and network with other interns. Successful completion of the program may lead to a full-time offer for our rotational sales development program after graduation.
What you'll do#
- Complete projects to support the design, customer service, production, and sales teams.
- Develop core skills in communication, presentation, time management, problem-solving, and networking.
- Assist with customer inquiries, new item requests, lead follow-up, and complaint resolution.
- Build a prospect list and accompany experienced sales representatives on customer visits.
- Present a final project to the management team and fellow interns.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a degree program for Sales, Marketing, Business, or a related discipline.
- Completion of your freshman year.
- A minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0.
- Eligibility to work in the US on a full-time basis.
- Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects or customer inquiries at once.
- Professionalism and comfort engaging with mentors, team members, and customers.
- Ability to travel.
Location & details#
- Location: Columbus, Ohio.
- Term: Summer 2027 (May to August).
- Work Modality: On-site.
- Compensation: $25.00 to $30.00 per hour, depending on academic year.
- Benefits: Paid holidays and 401k plan enrollment with employer matching contributions.
About Packaging Corporation of America
Packaging Corporation of America produces containerboard and uncoated freesheet. The company operates ten mills and 91 corrugated product plants across the United States. Founded in 1959, it maintains corporate headquarters in Lake Forest, Illinois. The business employs approximately 16,800 people and reported net sales of 9 billion dollars in 2025.
How to get in at Packaging Corporation of America
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