Inventory Operations Summer 2026 Intern

Description

Are you someone who enjoys staying organized, working hands-on, and making sure everything is in the right place at the right time? Do you take pride in keeping operations running smoothly behind the scenes?

We’re looking for an Inventory Operations Intern to join the team. In this role, you’ll play a key part in managing returned equipment, maintaining accurate inventory records, and ensuring materials are ready for installation teams. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain real-world experience in operations, logistics, and inventory management.

This is a full-time summer internship position that will be approx. 40 hours per week working from mid-May – mid August 2026. The internship will be located at our Buhler, KS headquarters.

A Day in the Life

You’ll start your day organizing returned equipment and prioritizing what needs to be tested, sorted, or processed. From there, you might be logging inventory into the system, preparing items for return to vendors, or coordinating shipments.

A large portion of your time will be focused on working through a backlog of returned equipment—sorting, testing, and documenting each item to ensure accuracy and accountability. You’ll also support the team with basic documentation and operational tasks, helping free up time for more complex technical work.

By the end of the summer, you’ll have played a direct role in improving inventory processes and supporting the teams that keep our network running.

What You'll Do

Key responsibilities include:

• Sort, test, and log returned equipment into inventory systems 
• Identify and isolate defective or non-functional equipment 
• Initiate Return Merchandise Authorizations (RMAs) with vendors and manufacturers 
• Package and ship equipment according to vendor requirements 
• Track RMA progress and ensure timely resolution (replacement or credit) 
• Maintain accurate records of inventory activity, including failure rates and tracking data 
• Assist with inventory organization and ensure equipment is ready for field installations 
• Support documentation of lower-tier operational tickets to assist the broader team 

What Will Help You Stand Out

Preferred Qualifications:

• Interest in operations, supply chain, logistics, or technology 
• Previous experience in a warehouse, inventory, or technical environment 
• Familiarity with tracking systems or basic inventory processes 
• Curiosity about how technology and infrastructure come together behind the scenes 

Desired Attributes

Beyond the qualifications, these attributes are what make someone a great fit for our team:

• Detail-oriented – You take pride in accuracy and catching the small things 
• Reliable and accountable – You follow through on tasks and take ownership of your work 
• Adaptable – You can shift priorities based on business needs 
• Team-oriented – You enjoy supporting others and contributing to shared goals 
• Self-motivated – You don’t need constant direction to stay productive 

Why Join IdeaTek?

IdeaTek is a cutting-edge telecommunications company dedicated to bringing fast, reliable internet to underserved communities. We're a passionate team of innovators and problem-solvers committed to making a difference in the lives of our customers. At IdeaTek, we value our employees and foster a culture of collaboration, growth, and community involvement.

Our Core Values

• We are Trustworthy – We build confidence through transparency, follow-through, and dependability. 
• We count on Big Thinkers – We don’t just imagine the future—we create it with bold, actionable ideas. 
• We have a Resilient Spirit – We embrace challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and keep striving for more. 
• We stand on Belief – We believe everyone deserves access to technology that helps them learn, grow, and thrive. 
• We foster Connectedness – Our work goes beyond broadband—we build real connections within our team and our communities. 
• We drive Innovation – We're always looking for ways to improve and redefine what’s possible. 

Ready to Apply?

If you’re ready to gain hands-on experience and make an impact this summer, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today! 

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

To be considered for this role, you'll need the following required qualifications:

• High school or college student with a willingness to take on hands-on work and support a high-volume equipment backlog
• Experience using Excel and/or Google Sheets 
• Strong attention to detail and ability to stay organized 
• Ability to manage tasks independently and follow through to completion 
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal 
• Ability to lift and move equipment as needed (light to moderate lifting) 
• Ability to work on-site in Buhler, KS for the duration of the internship