Audit Intern - Summer 2027

As a Fortune 500 company, Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is an ideas and solutions company. Our corrugated packaging business seeks to be the leader in helping our customers — large and small — package, transport and display products of all kinds. Our white paper business delivers Paper With Purpose by providing the highest level of customer service and operational excellence. We have approximately 15,000 team members in more than 100 locations in the United States that strive to meet the local needs of our customers. Our mission is to serve the needs of our customers, today and tomorrow, with products and services that exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility.

People • Customers • Trust

Audit Intern – Summer 2027

Location: Lake Forest, IL (Hybrid: Remote with occasional onsite attendance for projects and events) Company: PCA

PCA is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Internal Audit Intern to join our team for Summer 2027. This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in financial and operational auditing within a dynamic corporate environment. The role is hybrid, with remote work complemented by onsite participation for key initiatives and travel to operational sites as needed.

Internal Audit is responsible for risk and control assessment, high-impact special projects, and improving management’s processes/controls on a company-wide basis. A key objective of the Internal Audit department is to develop high-potential individuals who desire to move into key positions within the company.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the execution of financial and risk-based audit engagements across various business units

• Conduct audit procedures including interviews, document reviews, and data analysis

• Prepare and maintain accurate audit workpapers in accordance with professional standards

• Identify and document audit findings, risks, and actionable recommendations

• Assist in presenting audit results to management through clear written reports and oral briefings

• Foster collaborative relationships with audit clients and internal audit team members

• Adhere to established audit methodologies and internal guidelines

• Participate in audit fieldwork, including travel to operational sites as needed

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a college program, majoring in Finance, Business, Accounting, or a related field

• Completion of freshman year required

• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale

• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis

Skills & Attributes

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Analytical mindset with attention to detail

• Professional demeanor and maturity

• High energy, intellectual curiosity, and eagerness to learn

• Ability to work independently and within a team environment

This internship is ideal for students looking to explore a career in internal audit, risk management, or corporate finance. You’ll gain exposure to real-world audit practices and contribute to meaningful projects that support PCA’s commitment to operational excellence and compliance.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• Starting salary for position: $25-$30 per hour depending on year in school.

• Paid Holidays.

• Upon hire, an employee is automatically enrolled in the 401k plan. The plan offers both pre-tax and Roth contribution options along with employer provided matching contributions.

• • Disclaimer: The Compensation and Benefits information in this posting represents PCA’s good faith and reasonable estimate of what it may pay for this position. The Company reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.

PCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Qualified Applicants must apply at careers.packagingcorp.com to be considered.

Job Details

Pay Type Hourly

Hiring Min Rate 25 USD

Hiring Max Rate 30 USD