Accounting Intern

Job Description

Accounting Summer Internship | Packaging Corporation of America

The Tone:
This is an Accounting Summer Internship at Packaging Corporation of America, located at their headquarters in Lake Forest, IL. Packaging Corporation of America (PCA) is a Fortune 500 company that positions itself as an ideas and solutions provider, specializing in the production of corrugated packaging and white paper products. PCA strives to be the leader in helping customers—both large and small—effectively package, transport, and display their diverse products. The company operates with approximately 15,000 team members across more than 100 U.S. locations, committed to a mission of serving customer needs with products and services that consistently exceed expectations for performance and environmental responsibility. PCA cultivates a “golden rule” culture, fostering mutually rewarding relationships built on respect, ethical practices, and high standards. This internship offers a unique opportunity for a student to gain practical experience in core accounting functions, directly supporting the financial health and operational insights of a major manufacturing enterprise while immersing themselves in a professional and values-driven environment.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Seasonal
• Location: In-person Lake Forest, IL
• Pay: $25–$30 hourly
• Mission: This person will contribute to critical month-end close activities and financial data analysis, providing insights essential for the accurate reporting and operational efficiency of a Fortune 500 company.
• Tech Stack: Oracle ERP, Oracle ARC

What You’ll Actually Do
• Financial Support: Prepare journal entries and complete balance sheet account reconciliations to assist with month-end close activities.
• Team Collaboration: Work effectively with various cross-functional teams across the organization.
• Software Learning: Gain proficiency in business-related software programs, specifically Oracle ERP and Oracle ARC.
• Data Analysis: Examine financial data and processes to identify insights and support decision-making.
• Reporting: Present project results and findings to management through both oral presentations and written reports.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Currently enrolled college student majoring in Accounting, Finance, or another applicable field, having completed their sophomore year. A minimum grade point average of 3.0/4.0 is required.
• Experience: Must be eligible to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis.
• Skills: Exhibit strong capabilities in written and verbal communication, alongside robust analytical and interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate will also demonstrate high energy, intellectual curiosity, maturity, a high level of professionalism, and a proven ability to meet assigned deadlines.