Job Information
Waste Connections Sales / Operations Hybrid Internship Summer 2026 in Knoxville, Tennessee
About Us
WASTE CONNECTIONS, Inc. (NYSE: WCN) is a non-hazardous solid waste services company that provides solid waste collection, transfer, disposal, and recycling services across the U.S. and Canada. Our employees foster a culture built on Servant Leadership and strong Operating Values.
Our goal is to create an environment where self-directed, empowered employees consistently fulfill our commitments to customers, communities, and one another. Operating within a highly decentralized structure, we seek individuals who bring energy, initiative, and creativity to their work.
At Waste Connections , you’ll thrive if you are friendly, dedicated, and enjoy a work hard/play harder culture—while helping maintain our reputation as the premier waste services company in the markets we serve.
Internship Overview
Sales & Operations Intern (Hybrid Role)
As a Sales & Operations Intern , you’ll gain hands-on exposure to both the commercial and operational sides of the business. This hybrid role is designed for students who want a broad, real-world understanding of how customer acquisition, service design, and day-to-day operations work together to deliver exceptional service.
You’ll support the sales team in identifying and developing new business while also partnering with operations to ensure services are executed efficiently and aligned with customer expectations. This is an ideal opportunity for individuals interested in leadership development, logistics, and customer-focused solutions.
Location:
Knoxville, TN
What You’ll Gain
Real-world experience supporting B2B and B2C sales and service operations
Exposure to the waste management, logistics, and environmental services industry
Mentorship from sales leaders, operations supervisors, and managers
Understanding of how pricing, routing, and service execution intersect
Opportunity to contribute to sustainability and community-focused initiatives
Potential consideration for full-time employment upon graduation
Key Responsibilities
Sales Support
Assist in identifying, qualifying, and tracking new sales leads
Support outbound prospecting
Help prepare proposals, quotes, and sales presentations
Maintain CRM records and customer interaction notes
Conduct market and competitive research to identify growth opportunities
Shadow sales representatives during client meetings and site visits
Other duties as assigned
Operations & Hauling Support
Assist with daily route planning and coordination
Participate in ride-alongs to observe field operations and customer service delivery
Monitor service performance and help identify improvement opportunities
Support communication between drivers, dispatch, customer service, and sales
Assist with resolving service issues and customer concerns
Contribute to basic operational reporting and performance metrics
Other duties assigned
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Act as a liaison between sales and operations to ensure service alignment
Help evaluate operational feasibility of potential new accounts
Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for efficiency and growth
Engage in rotational exposure across departments to build organizational understanding
Perform other duties and projects as assigned
Qualifications
Currently pursuing a degree in Business, Marketing, Logistics, Supply Chain, Communications, or a related field
Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills
Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (CRM experience a plus)
Comfortable working both in office and field settings
Valid driver’s license required
Waste Connections is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability or protected veteran status.