Job Description

This position is open only to students currently living in the Des Moines, Iowa area. Relocation is not offered. Applicants outside the region will not be considered.

About Us:

At Plato's Closet - Ankeny, we believe great results come from great systems — and great people. We’re a leading retail clothing store serving the Ankeny and greater Des Moines market with a fun, fast-paced environment and a passion for exceptional customer service. As we continue to grow, we’re looking for a driven college student to help improve and streamline our operational processes during one of our busiest seasons.

Position Overview:

As a Retail Management Intern , you’ll work directly with store leadership to identify opportunities for greater efficiency, help develop new systems, and implement process improvements across staffing, scheduling, merchandising, and customer experience operations. You’ll gain hands-on experience in real-world operations management , problem-solving , and business analysis — critical skills for a future career in business, retail management, or consulting.

Key Responsibilities:

• Observe and actively participate in the daily retail operations and identify inefficiencies, bottlenecks, or pain points.
• Conduct time studies and gather feedback from team members to document current workflows.
• Assist in designing and testing improvements for:
• Employee scheduling
• Inventory management
• Merchandising processes
• Customer service touchpoints
• Track results and performance data related to implemented changes.
• Assist with onboarding and training new summer hires using improved processes.
• Create simple manuals, process guides, or checklists for staff as needed.
• Present a final summary of recommendations and improvements to store ownership and leadership at the end of the internship.

What You’ll Gain:

• Real-world experience in business operations and process improvement.
• A stronger understanding of retail management and leadership.
• Project ownership experience that you can showcase on a résumé.
• A chance to make a visible, meaningful impact at a growing business.
• Letter of recommendation upon successful completion.

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a college program (preferred majors: Business, Management, Operations, Industrial Engineering, Retail, or related).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Positive, collaborative attitude and willingness to work hands-on.
• Interest in retail operations and improving systems.
• Ability to work approximately 20-30 hours per week during the Semester during a variety of shifts.

Compensation:

• Competitive hourly wage
• Flexible scheduling working a variety of shifts
• Huge discount on Trendy Clothes and Accessories

Due to the nature of this internship, only applicants currently residing in the Des Moines area will be considered. Thank you for understanding!

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