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Land Development Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI) credential, or a clear plan to pass the FE ... Experience or familiarity with site planning, site design, and land development projects.

Engineer in Training (EIT) or Engineering Intern (EI) credential, or a clear plan to pass the FE ... Experience or familiarity with site planning, site design, and land development projects.

Land Surveyor

South Holland, IL · On-site

$83K - $104K/yr

... site development, transportation related design and construction projects. You will have the ... Must hold valid Surveyor Intern credentials in the State of Illinois or State of Indiana with the ...

Survey Crew Chief

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $85K/yr

... and development projects. If you're an experienced field leader who takes pride in precision ... Associate Degree in Land Surveying or Civil Engineering Technology * Illinois Surveyor Intern (S.I.

Land Development Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do land development intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for land 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 land development intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Land Development Intern, you generally need a background in civil engineering, urban planning, or a related field, along with strong analytical and research skills. Familiarity with AutoCAD, GIS software, and Microsoft Office Suite is commonly required, and experience with project management tools or internships is a plus. Attention to detail, effective communication, and teamwork abilities make candidates stand out. These skills and qualities are important for assisting in the planning, design, and coordination of land development projects, ensuring accuracy and effective collaboration among project stakeholders.

What types of projects and tasks can a land development intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Land Development Intern, you can expect to be involved in a variety of projects such as site planning, feasibility studies, and assisting with permit applications. Typical tasks may include preparing maps, conducting site visits, supporting civil engineers with design work, and collaborating with surveyors and environmental specialists. Interns often work as part of a multidisciplinary team, gaining exposure to different stages of land development from initial concept through to construction. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the workflow and challenges of turning raw land into developed property.

What does a land development intern do?

A Land Development Intern assists project managers and engineers with various tasks involved in preparing land for construction or other uses. Their responsibilities typically include conducting site research, assisting with permitting processes, supporting project documentation, and helping with design or planning tasks. This role provides valuable hands-on experience in civil engineering, urban planning, and real estate development, often involving both office work and site visits. Interns gain exposure to the entire development process, from feasibility studies through project completion.

What is the difference between Land Development Intern vs Civil Engineering Intern?

AspectLand Development InternCivil Engineering Intern
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing a degree in land planning, urban planning, or related fieldsUsually enrolled in civil engineering or related engineering programs
Work EnvironmentFieldwork, site visits, and office planning sessionsDesign, analysis, and project management in office and field settings
Industry UsageReal estate development, urban planning, land use projectsInfrastructure, transportation, and construction projects

While both roles involve planning and development, a Land Development Intern focuses on land use, zoning, and urban planning aspects, whereas a Civil Engineering Intern emphasizes infrastructure design and construction. The roles often overlap in site assessments and project coordination, but their core responsibilities and educational backgrounds differ slightly.

What are the most commonly searched types of Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Land Development jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Land Development Intern jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Land Development Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Land Development Intern job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,504 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

(Hybrid) Community Development, Fall Intern

The Chicago Community Trust

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Posted 16 days ago


Job description

Job Descriptions:

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)

Required Experience:

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!

Keyword: (Hybrid) Community Development, Fall Intern

From: The Chicago Community Trust