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Parks Intern Jobs in Mount Prospect, IL (NOW HIRING)

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Dundee Township Parks District

Zoo Intern

Carpentersville, IL · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Zoo Intern Do you love animals, enjoy being outdoors, and want hands-on experience in a zoo setting? Join the Dundee Township Park District as a Zoo Intern and play a key role in the care of more ...

Wheaton Park District

Athletic Intern

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$17/hr

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Must be pursuing a BS or MS degree in Parks and Recreation or closely related field. Must be familiar with the use of Microsoft ...

Wheaton Park District

Athletic Intern

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$17/hr

Must be pursuing a BS or MS degree in Parks and Recreation or closely related field. Must be familiar with the use of Microsoft Office with average ability in Word and Excel. Must have good problem ...

Wheaton Park District

Athletic Intern

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$17/hr

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Must be pursuing a BS or MS degree in Parks and Recreation or closely related field. Must be familiar with the use of Microsoft ...

Wheaton Park District

Athletic Intern

Wheaton, IL · On-site

$17/hr

REQUIRED EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS, KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES Must be pursuing a BS or MS degree in Parks and Recreation or closely related field. Must be familiar with the use of Microsoft ...

All JobsParks Intern JobsParks Intern Jobs in Mount Prospect, IL

Parks Intern information

See Mount Prospect, IL salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do parks intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for parks intern in Mount Prospect, IL is $16.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a parks intern do?

A Parks Intern typically supports the daily operations and maintenance of public parks and recreational areas. Their responsibilities may include assisting with landscaping, helping to organize community events, performing administrative tasks, and supporting conservation efforts. Parks Interns often work closely with park staff to ensure facilities are safe, clean, and welcoming for visitors. This role provides hands-on experience in environmental stewardship, public service, and park management, making it ideal for students interested in careers in recreation, environmental science, or public administration.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a parks intern?

To thrive as a Parks Intern, you typically need a background in environmental science, horticulture, or recreation management, often supported by coursework or relevant volunteer experience. Familiarity with tools such as GIS software, basic landscaping equipment, and data collection systems is valuable. Strong communication, teamwork, and initiative are important soft skills for engaging with the public and supporting park staff. These skills ensure effective park operations, visitor satisfaction, and the successful completion of conservation or maintenance projects.

What types of projects or tasks does a parks intern work on?

As a Parks Intern, you can expect to work on a variety of hands-on and administrative tasks, depending on the department's needs and your interests. Typical responsibilities may include assisting with park maintenance, supporting environmental education programs, helping organize community events, and conducting research or surveys related to park usage and conservation. Interns often collaborate closely with park rangers, maintenance crews, and administrative staff, gaining insight into the day-to-day operations of public parks. This role offers great exposure to teamwork and an opportunity to learn about careers in parks and recreation management.

What is the difference between Parks Intern vs Parks Ranger?

AspectParks InternParks Ranger
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or ongoing college courseworkHigh school diploma; some positions require certifications or training
Work EnvironmentSeasonal, educational, or volunteer settings within parksFull-time, on-site in parks, involving public interaction
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, parks departments, conservation programsNational, state, or local parks agencies, conservation agencies

In summary, Parks Interns typically focus on gaining experience through seasonal or educational roles, often with minimal certifications, while Parks Rangers are full-time professionals responsible for park safety, enforcement, and public education, often requiring additional training or certifications.

Are there internships available at NYC parks?

Parks Intern positions are often available at various parks departments, including city parks, and typically involve tasks related to park maintenance, environmental education, and community programs. Applicants usually need to meet age requirements and may need to complete safety training or certifications. These internships provide hands-on experience in park management and environmental conservation.

What cities near Mount Prospect, IL are hiring for Parks Intern jobs?

Cities near Mount Prospect, IL with the most Parks Intern job openings:

Parks Intern jobs near you

Summer Recreation Intern - 2024

Kenilworth Park District

Kenilworth, IL • On-site

$14.50 - $19.50/hr

Temporary, Internship

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Title: Paid Summer Recreation Internship
Dates of Employment - 8 to 10 Week Options (Summer)
Description:
The Kenilworth Park District offers a quality internship program to students working toward a degree within the field of parks and recreation or related areas of study. The internship provides a comprehensive experience of district operations including administration, programming, employee management, facility management, camps, historic properties, special events, budgeting, leadership, marketing and maintenance based on the desires and interests of the intern and the needs of the Park District. The exact hours for the Intern will vary, depending on weekly activities and special events; however, the Intern will work approximately 30-40 hours per week, including night and weekend hours when appropriate.
The Kenilworth Park District Summer Recreation Internship provides the opportunity to integrate and apply knowledge, theory and understanding from the academic setting to the working environment. The intern shall serve under the supervision and guidance of the Recreation Coordinator and the Executive Director. The main function of the Summer Recreation Intern will be to assist the Recreation Coordinator with summer camp, the largest program for the park district.
Essential Functions:
  • Manage personnel schedules, organize class schedules, confirm special events, and ensure the safety of program participants.
  • Attend staff meetings.
  • Learn and work with recreation registration software.
  • Assist with budget management and help coordinate day-to-day planning.
  • Prepare and submit reports as required by the Director.
  • Gain direct leadership experience by implementing programs, and special events and assisting at various facilities.
  • Assist with all things summer camp.
  • Provide timely, accurate paperwork and reporting.
  • Encourage the safety of all program participants and fellow staff by following Park District Safety Guidelines.
  • Have Fun!

Qualifications:
Must be a current student of an accredited university, pursuing a bachelor's degree in Recreation, Leisure Studies, or a related field looking to complete an internship. The student must provide their own housing and transportation. This internship will also serve as a qualified internship for Masters Degree candidates pursuing a Masters in Recreation or Public Administration.
The Kenilworth Park District will be hiring 2 interns for the 2024 summer season.
Contact
Thys Wallace
847.251.1691
twallace@kpdistrict.org
Closing Date
Open Until Filled

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