Veteran Intern (Fall/Winter Cohort)

McCormick Foundation; Wheaton (IL); On-site; USD 19,286 - 27,552; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mentorship

Resume coaching

Interview coaching

Professional training

Job summary

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation invites veterans to join its Veteran Internship Program in the Chicago area. You will work under supervision in an assigned department, gaining professional training and hands‑on experience to transition to civilian careers.

Weekly veteran cohorts and small group sessions build adaptability and resourcefulness for the 2026 season, Sept 8 to Dec 18. Participants receive mentorship, resume and interview coaching, and practical workplace exposure designed to

Qualifications

• Veteran status required.
• Must provide DD Form 214 with application.
• Honorable discharge on form DD214.
• Proficient in English; strong written and verbal skills.
• Experience with Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Able to lift at least 70 lbs and stand/walk for extended periods.
• Outgoing, friendly and willing to learn; team player.

Responsibilities

• Work under supervision in the assigned department during the Veteran Internship Program.
• Participate in weekly veteran cohort sessions to develop workplace skills.
• Contribute to hands‑on projects and adapt to civilian workforce expectations.
• Support program activities for the 2026 season (Sept 8 – Dec 18).
• Engage in training including resume writing and interview coaching.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Teamwork

Public interaction

Job description

Description

Foundation Summary

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation is a leading philanthropic institution investing more than $75 million annually in Chicagoland, with a focus on improving economic opportunities on Chicago’s South and West Sides. The Foundation is named for its donor, Colonel Robert R. McCormick. The Foundation’s Board of Directors also oversees Cantigny, Col. McCormick’s estate, which today provides educational and recreational opportunities in Chicago’s western suburbs.

Principal Function

Work under supervision in assigned Department while participating in the Veteran Internship Program to create a plan for transitioning to the civilian workforce. Furthermore, convene weekly as a veteran cohort to explore garden spaces, acquire new skills via hands‑on projects, and participate in small‑group sessions aimed at enhancing workplace adaptability and resourcefulness. We are looking forward to welcoming participants to join the program for the 2026 season, anticipated to start September 8th through December 18th.

Providing Opportunities

The Veteran Internship Program provides transitioning service members with professional training and hands‑on experience in the civilian workforce. The professional development offered throughout the program prepares veterans for a smooth transition into meaningful civilian careers.

• Veterans will be provided proper training, mentorship, and leadership during the internship.
• Veterans will have coaching for resume writing, interview skills and learn how to search for employment.

Working Conditions

This is a Full‑Time position, from September 8th through December 18th. May require use of office equipment including computers, telephones, copiers, scanners, and fax machines. The work can be physically demanding and sometimes includes heavy lifting, repetitive motion, and long periods of standing/walking. Proper safety training and gear must always be used due to the nature and environment of the work. This includes wearing proper PPE and completing safety trainings on a pre‑determined schedule.

Requirements

Our ideal candidate will have the following:

• Veteran status
• Must be able to provide DD Form 214 with application during application process
• Must have honorable discharge on form DD214
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent listening, written, and verbal communication skills; must be proficient in English
• Previous computer experience using Microsoft Word and Excel
• Must be able to walk for extended periods of time and be able to lift at least 70 lbs. to just above the waist (dependent on department role)
• Must find satisfaction in working with the public and possess an outgoing, friendly, courteous, and enthusiastic personality
• Must be a team player with a willingness to learn