Recreation Intern: Hands-On Parks & Programs

Champaign Park District; Champaign (IL); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

First Aid, AED, and CPR Certification

Harassment Prevention Training

Bloodborne Pathogen Training

HR Software Training

Facility and Driver Safety Training

CPI Training as available

Job summary

Champaign Park District Bresnan Meeting Center – CHAMPAIGN, IL 61821 is offering a Recreation Intern internship with a $16.00/hour pay rate. The internship is hourly, non-exempt, up to 40 hours per week for 10–12 weeks, providing hands-on experience across park district operations and events.

You will rotate through multiple departments, assist in program planning, support marketing efforts, and complete a final capstone project aligned with your academic goals.

Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled in college or university pursuing a degree in Recreation, Sports, Tourism, Leisure Studies, or a closely related field.
• Must be available to work up to 40 hours per week for 10 to 12 weeks, with flexibility for evenings or weekends.
• Must have reliable transportation to and from various Park District sites.
• Must possess a valid driver’s license (if travel between sites).
• Ability to pass a background check and comply with employment policies.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) or ability to learn required software.
• Demonstrate basic customer service and communication skills, including professional interaction with the public and staff.

Responsibilities

• Assist in planning, coordinating, and delivering programs and events across various Park District departments.
• Participate in meetings, trainings, and planning sessions to gain operational insight.
• Conduct research, gather feedback, and evaluate program effectiveness.
• Support the development of marketing and outreach materials.
• Collaborate on department-specific projects that match your academic focus.
• Engage with patrons to enhance customer service and community engagement.
• Complete and present a final capstone project demonstrating your learning outcomes.
• Follow safety and confidentiality policies while maintaining professionalism.

Skills

Customer service

Communication

Microsoft Office

Education

Pursuing a Recreation-related degree

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Champaign Park District Bresnan Meeting Center – CHAMPAIGN, IL 61821 is offering a Recreation Intern internship with a $16.00/hour pay rate. The internship is hourly, non-exempt, up to 40 hours per week for 10–12 weeks, providing hands-on experience across park district operations and events.

You will rotate through multiple departments, assist in program planning, support marketing efforts, and complete a final capstone project aligned with your academic goals.