INTERNSHIP DETAILS

Beer Careers Internship Program

CompanyColumbia Distributing
LocationPortland
Work ModeOn Site
PostedJanuary 8, 2026
Internship Information
Core Responsibilities
Interns will collaborate with mentors and department leaders on business projects and participate in field operations for hands-on experience. They will also conduct research, analyze data, and develop a Capstone Project addressing a real business challenge.
Internship Type
full time
Company Size
1482
Visa Sponsorship
No
Language
English
Working Hours
40 hours
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About The Company
Columbia Distributing is one of the nation’s finest beer, cider, wine, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverage distributors since 1935. With our primary hubs are located in Kent, WA and Canby, OR, we distribute some of the best known brands in the beverage business. Today Columbia Distributing employs nearly 3,000 people and covers more than 135,000 square miles across Oregon and Washington. We were named “2015 Beer Wholesaler of the Year” by the leading beverage business trends magazine Market Watch. Columbia Distributing has also been named the winner of Beverage Wholesaler Magazine’s "Best Workforce Development Award" for 2025. Our success is based on the deep-rooted tradition of delivering quality products, timely service and a genuine concern for customers’ needs. This is achieved by providing ongoing, sustainable opportunities and growth for our employees, customers, suppliers, shareholders and communities. This national recognition is a powerful reflection of the effort we’re putting into developing our people, investing in leadership growth, and building a culture of continuous improvement. It’s also validation that what we’re doing internally is being noticed and celebrated across our industry. For more information on Columbia Distributing and career opportunities, please visit www.coldist.com.
About the Role

Beer Careers Program Overview


Kickstart your career in the beverage industry through Columbia Distributing's Beer Careers Internship Program, a paid, 10-week summer experience designed for college students eager to gain hands-on business exposure, leadership development, and industry insight.

Interns work directly on meaningful projects within their assigned department (Operations or Commercial Sales), while also gaining field experience by participating in warehouse, merchandising, and delivery ride-along.

This program provides students with a unique opportunity to connect with leaders, contribute to impactful projects, and explore career paths within one of the largest beverage distributors in the Pacific Northwest.


Primary Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with mentors and department leaders to support ongoing business projects.
  • Participate in field operations to gain hands-on experience with warehouse, delivery, and merchandising processes.
  • Conduct research, analyze data, and contribute recommendations to enhance efficiency or business outcomes.
  • Develop and deliver a Capstone Project that addresses a real business challenge.
  • Engage in weekly leadership and professional development workshops.
  • Represent Columbia Distributing's core values of integrity, accountability, respect, and trust.

Competencies:

  • Results-driven with a strong work ethic.
  • Curious and eager to learn from hands-on experiences.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
  • Ability to multitask, adapt, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong collaboration, organization, and time management skills.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Currently enrolled as a junior (rising senior) in an accredited bachelor's program.
  • Preferred majors: Business, Supply Chain, Marketing, or related fields.
  • Demonstrated leadership experience through academics, extracurriculars, or community involvement.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age or older at the start of the internship.
  • Ability to secure and maintain a valid driver's license and auto-liability insurance in accordance with state laws.
  • Ability to lift/carry up to 50 lbs. occasionally during trade exposure days.

Compensation and Benefits:

  • Hourly rate: Competitive hourly rate.
  • Eligible for overtime as applicable.
  • Access to company events, leadership sessions and learning opportunities.
  • Networking opportunities with company leaders and suppliers.

Work Environment:

The internship combines office and field settings. Trade days involve time in warehouses, retail environments, or on delivery routes. Some travel within the Pacific Northwest may be required.

 

The review and selection process will take place from January through April 2026.

Key Skills
Results-DrivenStrong Work EthicCuriousEager To LearnExcellent Communication SkillsProficiency In Microsoft OfficeMultitaskingAdaptabilityCollaborationOrganizationTime Management
Categories
Food & BeverageSalesMarketingLogisticsManagement & Leadership
Benefits
Access To Company EventsLeadership SessionsLearning OpportunitiesNetworking Opportunities