Program Intern, Architecture

Are you a creative and driven architecture student ready to see your designs impact the real-world customer experience? Pilot Company is seeking a Program Intern, Architecture to join our team in Knoxville, TN for the summer of 2026. This is a unique opportunity to apply your design and technical skills to crucial enterprise initiatives, bridging architectural concept with customer-facing retail innovation. In this role, you'll be an integral part of the Architecture and Corporate Design Team, focusing on the strategic future of our physical retail spaces. This role will challenge you to think spatially, strategically, and creatively as you help define the next generation of our in-store experience. This is an ideal position for someone who is passionate about translating high-level vision into functional, buildable architectural prototypes.What You'll DoYour responsibilities may include:In-Store Experience Design: Support approved enterprise initiatives with a direct impact on the customer journey, with a focus on our check-out experience (or similar highly visible area).Design Development & Prototyping: Contribute to the concept and development phases of a build-able prototype for new architectural elements.Architectural Communication: Help define and formally document design standards for common in-store fixtures and millwork, ensuring consistency and brand integrity across all locations.Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams (e.g., Program Management, Store Operations) to ensure designs meet both aesthetic and operational requirements.Research and Analysis: Conduct research on new materials, construction methods, and retail design trends to inform and enhance proposed solutions.