Data Scientist Intern

Job Description Job Description The Data Scientist Intern at Hercules Industries will play an active role in building a modern, data-driven enterprise. This is not a traditional internship focused on observation or support work, interns will work on real business problems that directly impact supply chain, operations, and customer outcomes. As part of Hercules’ transformation to a data-centric organization, this role provides the opportunity to apply data science to real-world industrial challenges, contribute to meaningful value creation, and gain direct exposure to business leaders and decision-making. Interns will be expected to think critically, work collaboratively, and deliver insights that drive action. $24.00 PER HOUR; M-F 8 A.M. - 5 P.M. - STARTING SUMMER OF 2026 ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following. Other duties may be assigned. Problem Solving & Analytical Thinking Work on clearly defined, high-impact business problems such as: Demand forecasting and demand variability analysis Inventory optimization and parameter tuning (safety stock, lead times) Service level and fill rate analysis Supplier performance and lead time variability Break down business problems into structured analytical approaches Ask thoughtful questions to refine problem statements and assumptions Data Analysis & Model Development Perform exploratory data analysis (EDA) to identify trends, patterns, and anomalies Build analytical models using statistical and machine learning techniques (as appropriate to experience level) Develop data visualizations and summaries that communicate key findings Support the development of predictive and descriptive models alongside full-time data scientists Data Preparation & Quality Awareness Work with datasets from ERP (M3), data warehouse, and operational systems Clean, structure, and validate data for analysis Identify data quality issues and highlight opportunities for improvement Collaborate with Data Engineers to understand data pipelines and structures Business Integration & Insight Communication Translate analytical findings into clear, actionable insights Present results to team members and, where appropriate, business stakeholders Connect analysis to real business outcomes (e.g., inventory reduction, improved service levels) Support the development of recommendations that can be implemented in the business Collaboration & Learning Work closely with: Data Scientists Data Engineers Supply Chain and Operations leaders Participate in regular project reviews and working sessions Actively seek feedback and continuously improve technical and business skills QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each of the below essential duties satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability preferred. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Currently pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a quantitative field such as Data Science, Statistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Economics, or related discipline Strong foundational knowledge of: statistics and probability Data analysis and exploratory data analysis (EDA) Proficiency in at least one programming language commonly used in data science (e.g., Python or R) Experience working with data using tools such as SQL, Pandas, or similar frameworks Ability to structure ambiguous problems into clear analytical approaches Strong attention to detail and commitment to data accuracy and quality Effective communication skills, with the ability to explain insights to both technical and non-technical audiences What You Will Gain Real-World Impact Opportunity to work on projects that directly influence how a company operates Exposure to real supply chain, operations, and business challenges Ability to see your work drive measurable outcomes Skill Development Hands-on experience with: Data analysis and modeling Business problem-solving Data visualization and communication Exposure to enterprise systems (ERP, data warehouse, CRM) Business Exposure Direct interaction with business leaders and decision-makers Understanding of how analytics supports strategy and operations Insight into how a mid-sized company transforms and grows Career Opportunity High-performing interns will be considered for full-time roles Opportunity to be part of building a long-term data science capability at Hercules What Success Looks Like Delivery of clear, actionable insights that support business decisions Strong engagement with assigned projects and teams Demonstrated growth in both technical and business capabilities Contribution to meaningful improvements in forecasting, inventory, or operations Recognition as a potential full-time hire and future leader within Hercules Why Hercules Opportunity to make a material impact—your work will matter Work in a company that is actively transforming and investing in data and analytics Employee-owned (ESOP), aligning effort with long-term value creation Right-sized organization: large enough for complexity, small enough for visibility and impact A culture that values curiosity, problem-solving, and continuous improvement LANGUAGE SKILLS: Ability to effectively communicate with customers and staff to make an accurate assessment of customer needs. MATHEMATICAL SKILLS: Ability to perform basic mathematical calculations required to accurately complete assigned tasks. COMPUTER SKILLS: Intermediate computer skills, including Microsoft Office. REASONING ABILITY : Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in oral or written form. Ability to use sound judgment and problem-solving skills. ATTENDANCE DEMANDS: The attendance demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Attendance is required Monday through Friday 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. or within normal business hours as established by the supervisor. Employee may be required to work overtime, and occasional Saturday’s and Sunday’s. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit; walk and stand; use hands, handle, or feel; and required to speak, read, and hear English. The employee frequently is required to reach with hands and arms. The employee is occasionally required to climb or balance; and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include the ability to adjust focus. WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but may be loud on occasion. This position may on occasion be exposed to extreme weather conditions that may affect a warehouse environment. This is a fast-paced environment. DISCLAIMER: The preceding job description is designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. Hercules Industries is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regards to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, status as a protected veteran, status as a qualified individual with disability, or other legally protected status.