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Internship Small Startup Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Marketing Intern

Chicago, IL ยท On-site

$10/hr

... internship provides a unique opportunity to gain firsthand experience in a Chicago based startup ... Being a small company, you will contribute meaningfully to the growth of the company. We value ...

All previous startup staff were volunteers, interns, or contractors first. WHO WE ARE Want to help ... You will be a leader of a small team and should be able to rally diverse individuals around a ...

Marketing Intern - Nexus Black

Itasca, IL

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

We are a small, fast-moving marketing team shipping campaigns, content, and events at startup speed. This part-time internship is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience across the full marketing ...

Marketing Intern - Nexus Black

Itasca, IL

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

We are a small, fast-moving marketing team shipping campaigns, content, and events at startup speed. This part-time internship is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience across the full marketing ...

Marketing Intern - Nexus Black

Itasca, IL ยท On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

We are a small, fast-moving marketing team shipping campaigns, content, and events at startup speed. This part-time internship is an opportunity to gain hands-on experience across the full marketing ...

Internship Small Startup information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$5

$17

$25

How much do internship small startup jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for internship small startup in Chicago, IL is $17.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.86 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an intern at a small startup, and why are they important?

To thrive as an intern at a small startup, you typically need a foundational knowledge in your field of study, strong problem-solving abilities, and a willingness to learn quickly, often supported by current or recent enrollment in a relevant academic program. Familiarity with productivity tools like Google Workspace, project management software like Trello or Asana, and basic data analysis platforms is often advantageous. Strong communication, adaptability, and initiative are crucial soft skills, as startup environments demand flexibility and proactive contributions. These skills and qualities are important because interns at startups often wear many hats and must be able to handle evolving responsibilities in a dynamic, fast-paced setting.

What can I expect in terms of mentorship and learning opportunities during an internship at a small startup?

Interning at a small startup typically offers hands-on experience and close collaboration with founders and core team members. You can expect a less hierarchical structure, which means you'll likely have direct access to senior staff and more opportunities to ask questions, receive feedback, and contribute ideas. Startups often foster a culture of learning by doing, so you'll be given meaningful responsibilities and the chance to see the impact of your work. However, structured mentorship programs may be less formal compared to larger companies, so it's important to be proactive about seeking guidance and support.

What is an internship at a small startup?

An internship at a small startup is a temporary position where students or recent graduates gain hands-on experience by working closely with a small, entrepreneurial company. Unlike larger corporations, small startups often provide interns with opportunities to take on more responsibility, learn directly from founders, and contribute to various aspects of the business. This experience can be highly valuable for developing a broad skill set, networking, and understanding the unique challenges and rewards of startup environments.

What is the difference between Internship Small Startup vs Intern Software Developer?

AspectInternship Small StartupIntern Software Developer
Required CredentialsEnrolled in relevant degree program, basic coding skillsEnrolled in computer science or related field, coding proficiency
Work EnvironmentFast-paced, flexible, small teamCollaborative, project-based, tech-focused
Employer & Industry UsageStartups, tech, innovation sectorsTech companies, software firms, startups
Common Search & ComparisonInternship Small Startup vs Intern Software Developer

Internship Small Startup positions typically involve flexible roles in dynamic environments, often requiring basic technical skills. Intern Software Developer roles are more specialized, focusing on coding and software projects within tech companies. Both are valuable for gaining industry experience, but the scope and expectations differ based on the company's size and focus.

What are the most commonly searched types of Small Startup jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Small Startup jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What job categories do people searching Internship Small Startup jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Internship Small Startup jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Internship Small Startup jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Internship Small Startup job openings:
Infographic showing various Internship Small Startup job openings in Chicago, IL as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Internship, and 50% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,668 per year, or $17.1 per hour.
Bilingual Executive Assistant Intern

Bilingual Executive Assistant Intern

Bilin Academy

River Grove, IL โ€ข On-site

Full-time, Internship

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

About Bilin Academy:

Bilin Academy is a Chicago based online learning platform connecting professional, licensed teachers with children internationally. We aim to nurture global citizens and leaders prepared for a multicultural world.

Job Description:

We are looking for a bilingual (Chinese and English) tech-savvy and versatile Executive Assistant Intern who thrives in a dynamic startup environment. This role is ideal for someone interested in gaining experience in a variety of tasks, from administrative support to IT testing, social media management, and hiring processes. This position requires a quick learner with a keen interest in technology and design.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist in the preparation and formatting of presentations and meeting materials.
  • Handle correspondence and communication with both internal and external stakeholders in both English and Chinese.
  • Support project management, including tracking deadlines and project deliverables.
  • Assist with the hiring process by screening candidates, scheduling interviews, and
  • maintaining candidate databases.
  • Manage and update social media platforms to enhance Bilin Academys online presence
  • and engagement.
  • Test and provide feedback on IT projects, including website updates and new software
  • tools.
  • Help organize and coordinate events and special projects.

Qualifications:

  • Bilingual proficiency in Mandarin Chinese and English.
  • Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a degree in Business Administration,
  • Communications, Marketing, Design, or a related field.
  • Strong organizational and time management skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience with social media management and content creation tools.
  • Technological proficiency with an ability to learn new software quickly.
  • Creative thinking with an eye for design.
  • An interest in education technology and small startup environments is highly valued.

Benefits:

  • Gain invaluable hands-on experience in various aspects of an EdTech startup.
  • Work closely with senior leadership, direct interactions with the CEO.
  • Opportunity for job extension and potential full-time employment within the company after the internship.