Operations Manager Intern (Starting Summer 2027) Last Mile Distribution Center, Philadelphia, PA

Starting hourly rate: $26.00 per hour. Additional compensation may include a shift differential of $2.00 to $3.50 per hour based on eligibility. Pay is determined by factors such as labor markets, education, work experience, and certifications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health benefits (medical, vision, dental, life insurance, and more) for eligible team members and their dependents
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Employee discount
• Short-term and long-term disability coverage
• Paid sick leave
• Paid national holidays
• Paid vacation

About the Role

Experience firsthand what it’s like to lead a team within a Target Supply Chain Facility. This internship is a paid 40-hour-per-week, hands-on training program designed to develop and prepare you for operations leadership. As an Operations Intern, you’ll gain a realistic preview of life as an Operations Manager over a defined period.

You will work closely with managers and team members to understand how Target’s supply chain operates and what it takes to excel in a management role. You’ll lead and support daily operations by working alongside your team, learning to motivate and influence others, including the opportunity to lead a department.

This program teaches leadership within a supply chain facility. You’ll work with a Mentor to dive deeper into effective leadership while gaining exposure to different business areas. Daily tasks include problem-solving, leading and motivating teams, conducting real-time observations, and driving results—all while prioritizing safety and productivity.

During your internship, you’ll have the opportunity to lead your Mentor’s work center with guidance and support. Development is a priority, and you can expect ongoing conversations with your Mentor and Manager to ensure you feel supported.

Responsibilities

• Spend time on the facility floor helping to lead team members and align daily business priorities
• Work alongside team members to execute daily priorities
• Maintain high standards of quality and inventory accuracy through process standardization and employee accountability
• Track KPIs such as safety, teamwork, quality, and productivity to identify gaps and drive improvements
• Carry out process improvement initiatives using methodologies like Gemba, Fish Bone Analysis, and 5 Whys
• Facilitate communication between IT and Operations teams to address system issues and conduct WMS testing
• Recruit and mentor team members to foster a continuous improvement mindset and guide them toward leadership roles
• Address team member concerns and remove operational hurdles to ensure smooth operations
• Lead daily meetings to share company and site-specific information
• Present at daily planning meetings with peers and leadership
• Plan daily goals and organize shift plans to achieve targets
• Provide summaries of results, including hurdles, successes, and key learnings
• Conduct audits for safety, quality, and productivity adherence; provide feedback and coaching
• Conduct safety walks to identify, resolve, and report findings
• Follow up on team member attendance and provide necessary coaching
• Partner with leaders on team member performance through teaching, coaching, training, and feedback
• Propose new ideas and recommend solutions for business or team opportunities
• Seek growth and development opportunities to learn Target’s leadership expectations
• Actively participate in training, developmental opportunities, and events
• Demonstrate a willingness to take risks and step out of your comfort zone
• Foster a culture of ethical conduct, safety, and compliance
• Lead by example to create an inclusive, safe, and secure environment
• Carry out departmental duties through internship rotations
• Understand business reporting and guest insights to troubleshoot and address opportunity areas
• Develop business acumen by learning about all business areas
• Collaborate with building leaders to set goals and expectations

Requirements

• Strong interest in working in retail, specifically within supply chain facilities
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively
• Problem-solving skills and strong initiative
• Team-oriented thinking with enthusiasm for continuous learning
• Ability to access all levels and areas of the facility to respond to team member issues
• Ability to understand instructions, reports, and information
• Ability to climb up and down ladders
• Ability to scan, handle, and move merchandise efficiently and safely, including frequently lifting or moving up to 15 pounds and occasionally up to 40 pounds
• Flexible work schedule (e.g., nights, weekends, and holidays) and regular attendance

Qualifications

• Participation in school or extracurricular activities with experience in leadership roles