CU Special Recreation Intern Champaign Park District - Up to 40 hours per week (10-14 weeks ... reporter, and more). * Hands-on experience aligned with academic requirements. * Exposure to ...
CU Special Recreation Intern Champaign Park District - Up to 40 hours per week (10-14 weeks ... reporter, and more). * Hands-on experience aligned with academic requirements. * Exposure to ...
Fall - Recreation Intern
Champaign, IL · On-site
$16/hr
Recreation Intern Champaign Park District - Hourly, Non-Exempt (Up to 40 hours per week, 10-12 ... Heads Up Concussion, Mandated Reporter, and Harassment Prevention Training * Bloodborne Pathogen ...
Fall - Recreation Intern
Champaign, IL · On-site
$16/hr
Recreation Intern Champaign Park District - Hourly, Non-Exempt (Up to 40 hours per week, 10-12 ... Heads Up Concussion, Mandated Reporter, and Harassment Prevention Training * Bloodborne Pathogen ...
Child Welfare Internship (Central Illinois)
Champaign, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19/hr
Mandated Reporter, HIPAA, Sexual Harassment Awareness and Prevention, LGBTQIA+, Safety, Trauma 101 and ARC 101. Student Qualifications: * Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Social Work ...
Child Welfare Internship (Central Illinois)
Champaign, IL · On-site
$14.50 - $19/hr
Mandated Reporter, HIPAA, Sexual Harassment Awareness and Prevention, LGBTQIA+, Safety, Trauma 101 and ARC 101. Student Qualifications: * Currently pursuing an undergraduate degree in Social Work ...
Intern Reporter information
See Champaign, IL salary details
$8.91 - $10.31
3% of jobs
$10.31 - $11.71
3% of jobs
$11.71 - $13.11
3% of jobs
$13.11 - $14.51
9% of jobs
$14.96 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$14.51 - $15.91
21% of jobs
The median wage is $16.49 / hr.
$15.91 - $17.31
26% of jobs
$18.42 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$17.31 - $18.71
13% of jobs
$18.71 - $20.11
12% of jobs
$20.11 - $21.51
4% of jobs
$21.51 - $22.91
3% of jobs
$22.91 - $24.31
3% of jobs
$8
$17
$24
How much do intern reporter jobs pay per hour?
As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for intern reporter in Champaign, IL is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.28 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What does an intern reporter do?
An Intern Reporter assists in gathering news, conducting interviews, and writing stories under the supervision of experienced journalists. They may cover local events, research story ideas, and help with fact-checking and editing. This role provides hands-on experience in journalism, allowing interns to develop their writing, interviewing, and reporting skills while contributing to published content.
What types of assignments can an intern reporter expect during their internship?
As an Intern Reporter, you can expect to work on a variety of assignments ranging from researching and writing short news briefs to assisting with in-depth feature stories. Interns are often given the opportunity to attend press events, conduct interviews, and collaborate closely with experienced reporters and editors. This hands-on experience not only helps develop reporting and writing skills but also offers valuable insight into the fast-paced newsroom environment. Flexibility and curiosity are important, as assignments may shift quickly based on breaking news or editorial priorities.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern reporter, and why are they important?
To thrive as an Intern Reporter, you need strong writing, research, and interviewing skills, often supported by coursework in journalism or communications. Familiarity with digital content management systems, social media platforms, and basic photo or video editing tools is highly valuable. Curiosity, adaptability, and effective communication are standout soft skills that help in building sources and telling compelling stories. These abilities are essential for producing accurate, engaging news content and succeeding in a dynamic newsroom environment.
What is the difference between Intern Reporter vs Junior Reporter?
| Aspect | Intern Reporter | Junior Reporter |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Typically pursuing or recent graduate in journalism or related field | Completed relevant education, some experience preferred |
| Work Environment | Entry-level, supervised, learning-focused | Early career, more responsibility, independent reporting |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Media outlets, news organizations, internships | News agencies, media companies, entry-level positions |
Intern Reporters are usually students or recent graduates gaining initial experience, while Junior Reporters have some professional experience and handle more responsibilities. Both roles are common in news organizations, but Junior Reporters typically work more independently and contribute to ongoing stories.
What job categories do people searching Intern Reporter jobs in Champaign, IL look for?
The top searched job categories for Intern Reporter jobs in Champaign, IL are:
What cities near Champaign, IL are hiring for Intern Reporter jobs?
Cities near Champaign, IL with the most Intern Reporter job openings:
Job description
CU Special Recreation Intern
Champaign Park District - Up to 40 hours per week (10-14 weeks)
Payrate: $16 per hour
About the Job:
Join the Champaign-Urbana Special Recreation (CUSR) team and gain hands-on experience creating inclusive, meaningful recreation opportunities for individuals with disabilities. As a CU Special Recreation Intern, you'll play an active role in adaptive recreation programs, inclusion support, event planning, and community engagement while working alongside experienced professionals committed to accessibility and inclusion.
Summary of Responsibilities:
- Assist with planning, coordinating, and facilitating adaptive recreation programs and inclusion services.
- Support CUSR initiatives through project-based work such as program development, participant engagement, staff training support, or accessibility improvements.
- Help implement modifications and adaptive techniques to ensure participant success in inclusive recreation settings.
- Collaborate with staff on community events and special programs promoting recreational access for all.
- Observe and document participant outcomes; provide feedback to support program evaluation and improvement.
- Conduct research to identify best practices in adaptive and therapeutic recreation.
- Assist with program logistics including setup, attendance, and equipment organization.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and professional development sessions.
- Present project outcomes at the end of the internship.
- Maintain confidentiality and follow all Park District safety and policy requirements.
Why Work With Us?
This internship offers a unique opportunity to build real-world experience in adaptive and inclusive recreation. Interns gain practical skills useful for careers in recreation, therapeutic recreation, special education, event coordination, and community programming. You'll learn from supportive professionals, engage directly with participants, and contribute to impactful, mission-driven work.
Benefits Summary:
As an educational internship, this position is unpaid. However, interns receive:
- Extensive training opportunities (First Aid/CPR, disability awareness, behavioral intervention, mandated reporter, and more).
- Hands-on experience aligned with academic requirements.
- Exposure to program management, adaptive recreation strategies, and inclusion practices across the Park District.
- Professional mentorship and opportunities to build a strong portfolio.
About the Champaign Park District:
The Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing the community's quality of life through parks, recreation, and cultural opportunities. CUSR specifically provides safe, respectful, and inclusive programs for individuals with disabilities, fostering independence, social development, and recreation access for all ages and abilities.
Who This Position Is Ideal For:
This internship is a great fit for students studying Recreation, Therapeutic Recreation, Sports & Tourism, Leisure Studies, or related fields who are seeking meaningful hands-on experience. Ideal candidates are enthusiastic about inclusion, eager to learn, comfortable engaging with diverse participants, and looking to make a positive impact through recreation.
The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All individuals are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.
- Must be completing the internship for academic credit or as a program requirement for graduation
- Must be available to work up to 40 hours per week for 10 to 12 weeks, with flexibility for occasional evenings or weekends
- Must have reliable transportation to and from various Park District sites
- Must possess a valid driver's license (if required to travel between sites)
- Must be able to pass a background check and comply with all Champaign Park District employment policies
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) or the ability to learn required software
- Must demonstrate basic customer service and communication skills, including the ability to interact professionally with the public and staff