Clark Associates Internships: A Launchpad for Future Leaders

Clark Associates, a prominent force in the foodservice industry for half a century, offers a comprehensive internship program designed to cultivate the next generation of industry leaders. With a focus on practical experience, mentorship, and professional development, Clark's internships provide a valuable stepping stone for students and recent graduates seeking to launch their careers. The company's commitment to innovation and technology, coupled with its diverse divisions and branches, creates a dynamic environment for interns to learn and contribute.

Equal Opportunity and Inclusion

Clark Associates is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals, regardless of race, color, sex, age, handicap, religion, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, physical disability, or veteran status. The company adheres to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, ensuring fair treatment in all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, and compensation. Clark Associates also provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities, as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

A Multifaceted Internship Experience

Clark’s internship program is designed to offer young professionals the opportunity to gain valuable experience across all areas of Clark’s business, including equipment and distribution, development, brick-and-click sales, and e-commerce.

The annual program is designed to offer young professionals the opportunity to gain valuable experience across all areas of Clark’s business, including equipment and distribution, development, brick-and-click sales, and e-commerce. Alongside practical job training, interns are expected to deepen their understanding of the foodservice industry and develop essential soft skills. They'll hone their communication and teamwork abilities and enhance their adaptability.

Clark’s dedication to remote work continues to draw top-tier talent from diverse educational backgrounds across the country. Interns have the opportunity to explore career interests and learn more about Clark through virtual and in-person activities. These valuable experiences range from departmental résumé reviews to social networking events. Throughout the summer, interns will engage in roundtable discussions and presentations with senior leaders, gaining meaningful insights and building connections across the organization.

As the program concludes, each intern presents their accomplishments to Clark’s senior leadership. To help them prepare, interns receive coaching and feedback on their presentation skills.

Key Components of the Internship Program

Clark Associates' internship program is structured to provide a well-rounded experience, encompassing various elements designed to foster growth and development:

Practical Job Training: Interns receive hands-on experience in their respective departments, working on real projects and contributing to the company's goals.
Foodservice Industry Immersion: The program provides interns with a comprehensive understanding of the foodservice industry, its dynamics, and its challenges.
Soft Skills Development: Interns hone essential soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, which are crucial for success in any career.
Networking Opportunities: Interns have the chance to connect with professionals from various departments and levels within the organization, building valuable relationships.
Leadership Engagement: Interns participate in roundtable discussions and presentations with senior leaders, gaining insights into the company's strategy and vision.
Presentation Skills Coaching: Interns receive coaching and feedback on their presentation skills, preparing them to effectively communicate their accomplishments and ideas.
Ambassador Program: Clark’s Ambassador Program encourages employees to stay connected with their alma maters and engage with current students through outreach and relationship-building opportunities. Clark also fosters strong partnerships with 17 colleges and universities through its Charitable Foundation.

Internship Opportunities Across Divisions

Clark Associates offers a variety of internship opportunities across its diverse divisions, catering to a wide range of interests and skill sets. Some notable examples include:

Procurement Operations Intern

This internship, based in Lancaster, PA, provides a hands-on role in supporting key purchasing and supply chain functions. The intern will assist with inventory control, forecasting, pricing, and vendor management, contributing to the efficient flow of millions of dollars in inventory. The Procurement Operations Intern will manage daily procurement activities, support process improvements, and contribute to aligning pricing strategies with broader business goals.

National Accounts | Logistics & Supply Chain Summer Intern

Based in Lancaster, PA, this internship offers exposure to the Logistics & Supply Chain department of Clark National Accounts. The intern will work closely with both the Logistics Support and Project Fulfillment teams, gaining experience in report monitoring, order resolution, specialty freight coordination, and project execution. This internship provides a valuable opportunity to learn about the intricacies of managing logistics for major national brands.

Read also: Employment at Clark University

Logistics Intern at The Restaurant Store

An Intern with The Restaurant Store (A Clark Associates Company) will enjoy specialized training courses, participate in round-table discussions with other interns from around the company, and attend a volunteer day which will underscore giving back to the community as a part of our company culture. A highlight of this Internship will be participating in sessions led by the Chairman of the Board and Clark executives where they will discuss topics like “How to Dream”, “Building Your Own Personal Brand”, and “Embracing an Entrepreneurial Spirit”.

Account Support Intern

The Account Support Intern has the chance to make a significant impact at Clark National Accounts by supporting the customized distribution services that power our partnerships with major national brands.

The Clark Culture and Benefits

Interns at Clark Associates are immersed in a culture that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. The company fosters a fast-paced, data-driven environment where interns are encouraged to take initiative and make meaningful contributions. In addition to valuable work experience, interns also benefit from:

Robust Training Program: Clark provides a comprehensive training program that includes campus and warehouse tours, team shadowing, mentorship, and soft-skill and hard-skill development.
Networking Events: Interns have the opportunity to connect with professionals from across the company at various networking events.
Volunteer Opportunities: Clark encourages interns to give back to the community through volunteer opportunities.
Leadership Presentations: Interns gain insights from senior leaders through roundtable discussions and presentations.

The Restaurant Store also offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package including paid time off, medical/dental insurance, wellness programs, gym membership reimbursement, and a 401k with company match. Our Pennsylvania headquarters feature an on-site fitness center and lunch bar.

Straightforward Hiring Process

Clark Associates aims to make the hiring process as straightforward and supportive as possible. The process typically begins with a review of the applicant's resume to assess their background and interests.

Read also: Clark's NBA Prospects

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