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Community Development Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL

CHICAGO SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

Development Intern

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Through college counseling, mentoring, and by providing a supportive community to our Scholars ... Position Summary The Development Intern is a key support role within the Development & External ...

CHICAGO SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

Development Intern

Chicago, IL

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Through college counseling, mentoring, and by providing a supportive community to our Scholars ... Position Summary The Development Intern is a key support role within the Development & External ...

CHICAGO SCHOLARS FOUNDATION

Development Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Through college counseling, mentoring, and by providing a supportive community to our Scholars ... Position Summary The Development Intern is a key support role within the Development & External ...

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All JobsCommunity Development Intern JobsCommunity Development Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL

Community Development Intern information

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How much do community development intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for community development intern in Chicago, IL is $17.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Community Development Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Community Development Intern, you need a foundation in social sciences, community engagement, and project management, often supported by coursework or experience in urban planning or nonprofit work. Familiarity with data collection tools, mapping software (such as GIS), and Microsoft Office is commonly expected. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and initiative help interns build trust and collaborate effectively with diverse communities. These skills and qualities are critical for supporting meaningful community projects and fostering positive social impact.

What does a Community Development Intern do?

A Community Development Intern supports projects and initiatives aimed at improving local communities. Their responsibilities often include conducting research, organizing community events, assisting with outreach efforts, and helping to develop programs that address community needs. Interns may work with local governments, nonprofits, or grassroots organizations to gain hands-on experience in community engagement and development practices. This role provides valuable exposure to project management, communication, and social impact strategies.

What is the difference between Community Development Intern vs Community Outreach Coordinator?

AspectCommunity Development InternCommunity Outreach Coordinator
CredentialsTypically pursuing or holds a relevant degree (e.g., social work, urban planning)Usually requires experience in outreach, communication, or related fields
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in non-profits or government agenciesFull-time role involving community engagement activities
Employer & IndustryNon-profits, government agencies, community organizationsNon-profits, government, and private sector organizations
Search & Comparison IntentEntry-level, learning-focused positionActive role in community engagement and program implementation

The Community Development Intern position is typically an entry-level internship aimed at gaining experience in community planning and development. In contrast, the Community Outreach Coordinator is a full-time role focused on executing outreach programs and engaging with community members. Both roles are vital in community-focused organizations but differ mainly in experience level, responsibilities, and employment status.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Community Development Intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Community Development Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of projects, such as organizing community events, conducting needs assessments, supporting grant writing, and helping with outreach initiatives. Interns often collaborate with local residents, nonprofit organizations, and municipal departments to implement programs that address community needs. The role typically involves both fieldwork and administrative tasks, providing valuable hands-on experience in community engagement, program planning, and stakeholder communication. This exposure is an excellent way to build practical skills and establish connections in the field of community development.
What are the most commonly searched types of Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Community Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Community Development Intern jobs in Chicago, IL? For Community Development Intern jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Community Development Intern jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Community Development Intern jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Community Development Intern jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Community Development Intern job openings:
Community Development Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Community Development Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,504 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
(Hybrid) Community Development, Fall Intern

(Hybrid) Community Development, Fall Intern

The Chicago Community Trust

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Internship

Posted 5 days ago

Job description


JOB DESCRIPTION
2026 Fall Internship Program
Title: Community Development, Intern
Department: Community Impact
Reports To: Program Manager for Community Development
Direct Reports: N/A
Classification: Internship
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Job Grade: N/A
Compensation: $20/hour
Schedule: 21 hours/week (Hybrid: 2 days in office, 1 day remote)
Duration: 16 weeks, Fall 2026 (August 25 - December 10)
About the Internship Program
Our Fall Internship Program offers students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in philanthropy, community engagement, operations, and organizational strategy. Interns work alongside staff across multiple departments.
The Community Development Team works toward a future when community assets - businesses, land, homes, and commercial real estate - will sustain and increase community well-being, cohesion and prosperity in long underinvested communities, ultimately building household wealth and a more thriving Chicago region.
What You'll Do
The intern has an active role in supporting the Community Development team through research, analysis, and community partner engagement activities. The intern will develop learning memos and background materials, assess place-based community development opportunities, participate in meetings with grant and other civic partners, and present findings to help inform strategy and investment decisions. Through this work, the intern will strengthen their presentation, research, and writing skills while advancing the Trust's efforts to build wealth and promote equitable investment in Chicago communities.
Expected Assignments:
  • Review existing impact measurement tools for funding programs to demonstrate the strengths of and opportunities to support Community Development grant partners
  • Track, document, and assess opportunities to enhance place-based investment aligned with Community Development priorities.
  • Participate in meetings with grant partners and other civic leaders, document important information, and provide feedback on alignment with strategic priorities.
  • Research and provide background memos on key policy issues and policy reform proposals to inform potential Trust engagement, examples of which may include key neighborhood amenities needed for overall development, models for supporting property acquisition, and other topics as assigned.
  • Participate in grantmaking processes by reviewing and scoring proposals, participating in site visits, and drafting grant recommendations
  • Support and coordinate key projects and events aimed at advancing the Trust's strategic goals.
  • Complete other duties as assigned.

Who We're Looking For
Students who are:
  • Currently enrolled as a senior undergraduate or graduate student
  • Curious, motivated, and committed to the Trust's Mission
  • Strong communicators (written and verbal)
  • Organized and attentive to detail
  • Comfortable managing multiple tasks
  • Collaborative and eager to learn
  • Open to feedback and new ideas

Work Environment
This internship follows a hybrid schedule:
  • 2 days in office
  • 1 day remote

Timeline
This posting will close at 4:59PM CST on Monday July 27, 2026.
  • Application Cycle (7/15 - 7/27)
  • Applicant Screens (7/27 - 7/31)
  • In Person Interviews (8/3 - 8/7)
  • Intern Selection and Notifications (8/10 - 8/14)
  • Internship Onboarding (8/25 - 8/27)

Experience and Skills
Position Qualifications
We welcome applicants from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including (but not limited to): Rising Senior - Graduate level Public Policy; Political Science; Public Administration; Urban Planning; Sustainable Urban Development; Community Development; Social Science, Economics; Business; Social Work; Law; or other related fields.
Preferred Qualifications (If Applicable)
  • Project coordination
  • Experience working with multiple teams/leaders at the same time

Thank you for your interest in joining our mission. We look forward to hearing from you!

Apply