2026 Summer Recreation Intern (Seasonal Part-Time)
The Glencoe Park District is a nationally accredited, Gold Medal Award–winning agency dedicated to enriching lives, building community, and fostering an inclusive, positive environment where everyone feels respected and valued. As an intern with the District, you will gain hands-on experience in parks and recreation operations, develop professional skills, and learn industry best practices while contributing to meaningful work that supports families and the broader community. Join our mission-driven team and help us create exceptional experiences for the Glencoe community!
This internship is anticipated from May-August in conjunction with a degree requirement.
Job Summary:
Under the supervision of the Assistant Director of Recreation and Facilities, the Recreation Intern is responsible for completing the requirements set forth by the university and working towards a degree in Parks and Recreation or a related field. The internship provides a comprehensive experience of district operations, including administration, programming, employee supervision, facility management, camps, aquatics, rink (seasonal), special events, marketing, and maintenance, based on the interests of the Intern and the needs of the Park District.
The Recreation Intern is a stipend position, and hours will vary depending on weekly activities and special events; however, the Intern will work approximately 40 hours per week, including nights and weekends when needed.
Qualifications:
- Must be at least 18 years old or older.
- Pursuing a college degree in Parks and Recreation or a related field is preferred.
- Previous experience in Park and Recreation setting is preferred.
- Must possess a valid Illinois Driver’s License.
- Must possess CPR/AED/First Aid Certification or be willing to obtain it within one month of hire
- Must pass the Glencoe Park District Vehicle Training.
- All employees must pass a criminal background check, which will be paid for by the Glencoe Park District.
Required Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of community recreation programming theories, practices, and philosophies.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (including Excel) and other standard computer applications, with demonstrated experience applying these tools in a professional setting.
Required Skills:
- Demonstrates strong communication skills and interacts professionally and courteously with employees and customers both in person and over the phone.
- Highly organized with the ability to coordinate multiple activities across various locations independently.
- Possesses effective problem-solving skills and can perform tasks and make decisions with minimal supervision.
- Exhibits sound professional judgment, initiative, flexibility, and creativity in approaching daily responsibilities.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Develop a thorough understanding of Glencoe Park District policies, procedures, and operations, and positively enforce them.
- Visit, observe, and participate in different phases of the agency facilities, programs, services, and operations.
- Lead and/or assist in special projects requiring research and development of initiatives supporting and benefiting the agency and/or department.
- Assist in organizing, planning, and implementing programs and activities.
- Provide excellent customer service by immediately addressing questions and concerns from staff, patrons, and parents.
- Consult your supervisor when confronted with questions or problems you cannot resolve yourself.
- Maintain a positive public image.
- Keep program and work supplies, equipment, and facility areas clean, organized, and safe.
- Communicate openly, honestly, and professionally at all times.
- Wear Park District-provided apparel and name tags while on duty.
- Must demonstrate safety awareness and follow safety protocol. Report any safety hazards to the Program Manager.
- Report any violations of the Rules and Regulations and/or incidents to the Program Manager or the Takiff Center Facility Manager.
- Attend all meetings as required.
- Complete all other duties as assigned by the Program Manager(s).
Pay Rate:
This is a seasonal, part-time, non-exempt (hourly) internship. The pay rate for this position is $17 per hour.
This is a seasonal, part-time, non-exempt (hourly) internship. The pay rate for this position is $17 per hour.
Benefits:
- Complimentary Seasonal Beach passes to the Glencoe Beach.
- Complimentary Membership to the Glencoe Fitness Center.
*To review the full job description, please contact the hiring manager.
Glencoe Park District is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.