Buying Intern

This is a temporary position within the Buying Team. The Buying Intern will gain hands-on experience supporting merchandise selection, product data management, vendor communication, and overall purchasing operations across Runnings diverse product categories, such as farm & ranch, lawn & garden, sporting goods, hardware, tools, home, apparel, auto, and pet supplies. This position provides valuable insight into how the buying team sources products, analyzes performance, and partners with vendors to bring high-quality merchandise to Runnings stores.

The internship is designed for post-secondary students interested in Merchandising, Purchasing, and Retail Management. The Buying Intern will work both independently and alongside Buyers and Assistant buyers while supporting merchandising strategy and operational execution.

This is a part time position with a flexible starting date at the end of the spring semester that will last through the end of summer. Based on business needs and internship performance, this position has the potential to transition into a permanent role at the end of the internship.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

• Assist Buyers and Assistant Buyers with product setup, data entry, product maintenance, and item updates.


• Assist in preparing seasonal merchandise plans, ad sheets, category reviews, and competitive analyses.


• Help coordinate product samples, including organizing, tracking, and preparing them for review.


• Help maintain buying team documentation


• Help track purchase orders and follow up on shipping updates, delays, or discrepancies as directed by Buyers.


• Participate in department meetings, training opportunities, and project work to expand understanding of retail merchandising.


• Provide general administrative support to the Buying team as needed.


• Gain exposure to multi-state retail operations and the unique product needs of Runnings diverse customer base.


• Maintain confidentiality, accuracy, and professionalism in all work.


• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Education, Training and Experience: 

• High school diploma or equivalent required


• Must be enrolled and actively pursuing a degree in Business, Retail Merchandising, Supply Chain or a related field.


• Strong interest in merchandising, product development, or purchasing is preferred.