Loss Prevention Data Intern

Job Title

LP Data Intern - Spring 2027

About the Job

Books-A-Million is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama, and operates a family of brands that includes Books-A-Million, 2nd & Charles, Joe Muggs, and Yogurt Mountain. Our Loss Prevention team protects company assets across our stores through investigations, remote video monitoring, field equipment support, and shrink programs. This part-time internship (maximum 20 hours per week) is based at our West Park Corporate Office in Birmingham on a hybrid schedule and runs January 25 - April 23, 2027. The intern will help build Total Loss, a new data-driven program that gives Loss Prevention more current insight into store shrink.

• Position: LP Data Intern - Spring 2027
• Department: Loss Prevention
• Location: Birmingham, AL - West Park Corporate Office
• Position Type: Part-time internship, maximum 20 hours per week
• Pay: $17 per hour

Role Summary

The LP Data Intern will help develop the Total Loss program. Today, our shrink programs rely largely on inventory results, which can arrive up to a year after the fact. Total Loss will use current, non-inventory data that affects store P&L each month, reported quarterly, so Loss Prevention can act on shrink faster and more effectively. The intern will identify where this data lives, bring it together into a repeatable reporting process, and help prepare the program for presentation to senior management. Working closely with the Loss Prevention leader and LP Analyst, the intern will also support investigations as needed. This role is modeled on the work of a data scientist in a detail-oriented, confidential, and collaborative environment.

Role Responsibilities

Total Loss Program Development (Primary Focus)

• Help develop the Total Loss program, using a starting outline provided by the Loss Prevention leader.
• Identify and evaluate non-inventory data sources and fields that affect store P&L on a monthly basis.
• Gather, connect, and organize data from multiple sources into a consistent, repeatable process.
• Build a reporting mechanism that tracks store data monthly and reports results quarterly.

Analysis & Program Readiness

• Analyze current store data to support more timely and effective decisions for shrink programs.
• Document data sources, definitions, and methods so the program can be maintained after the internship.
• Help prepare findings and a program recommendation for presentation to senior management.

Investigations Support (Secondary)

• Archive and organize video footage for internal and external investigations.
• Maintain accurate records and assist with other administrative and investigative support tasks.
• Learn how CCTV, transaction data, reports, and other evidence work together to establish the facts of an investigation.
• Other duties as assigned.

Role Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• Rising junior or rising senior in college.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Critical thinking and observation skills.
• Clear written and verbal communication.
• Curiosity and perseverance when working through complex problems.
• Hands-on experience using AI tools, with interest in building more advanced skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Major in Criminal Justice, Data Analytics, or Data Science.
• Experience working with and analyzing data from multiple sources.

Work Environment & Expectations

• Program Length: January 25 - April 23, 2027.
• Schedule: Part-time, maximum 20 hours per week, hybrid at the West Park Corporate Office. The intern should be reachable during scheduled work hours.
• Mentorship: Guidance from the Loss Prevention leader and regular collaboration with the LP Analyst through Microsoft Teams.
• Capstone: A Total Loss reporting approach and program recommendation, ready to support a presentation to senior management.
• Confidentiality: The intern will handle sensitive investigative and business information and must use sound judgment and discretion.

The Perks

At Books-A-Million, we believe in taking care of our team members, including our interns. As part of the team, you'll enjoy:

• Employee Discounts: Get discounts on books and other products across our stores.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

Books-A-Million is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences, and we strive to create an environment where every individual feels valued and empowered. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their background or personal characteristics. We are dedicated to creating a culture of respect, equity, and opportunity for all employees, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.