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Public Programs Intern Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Fall Midwest Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... public higher education institutions. The intern will provide logistical support and thought-partnership on implementing the office's programs and activities. Interns are also assigned a Capstone ...

Fall Midwest Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

... public higher education institutions. The intern will provide logistical support and thought-partnership on implementing the office's programs and activities. Interns are also assigned a Capstone ...

Youth Engagement Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Support NAMI Chicago's youth programs by attending program sessions and co-facilitating learning ... Currently pursuing a graduate degree in psychology, social work, public health, education, or a ...

Youth Engagement Intern

Chicago, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Support NAMI Chicago's youth programs by attending program sessions and co-facilitating learning ... Currently pursuing a graduate degree in psychology, social work, public health, education, or a ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Programs Intern information

See Chicago, IL salary details

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$17

$25

How much do public programs intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for public programs 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 is a public programs intern?

A Public Programs Intern is typically a student or early-career professional who supports the planning, coordination, and execution of public events, educational initiatives, and community programs at cultural institutions, museums, or nonprofit organizations. Their responsibilities may include assisting with event logistics, conducting research, engaging with visitors, and helping with outreach efforts. This role provides hands-on experience in program development and public engagement, making it valuable for those interested in careers in arts administration, education, or nonprofit management.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a public programs intern?

To thrive as a Public Programs Intern, you need strong organizational, research, and communication skills, often supported by coursework in public relations, communications, or related fields. Familiarity with event planning software, online survey tools, and social media platforms is typically required. Initiative, adaptability, attention to detail, and collaboration are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies enable effective support of public programs, ensuring successful events and positive community engagement.

What projects or responsibilities can a public programs intern expect to work on?

As a Public Programs Intern, you can expect to assist with planning, organizing, and executing educational and community events, such as lectures, workshops, and cultural programs. You'll likely collaborate closely with program coordinators, outreach teams, and sometimes external partners to help develop engaging content and manage event logistics. Regular tasks may include researching potential speakers or topics, preparing promotional materials, helping with on-site event support, and collecting feedback afterward. This hands-on experience provides valuable exposure to program management and public engagement within cultural or nonprofit organizations.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Programs jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Public Programs jobs in Chicago, IL are:

(Hybrid) Community Impact, Fall Intern

The Chicago Community Trust

Chicago, IL • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Title: Community Impact, Fall Intern

Department: Community Impact

Reports To: Manager, Homeownership & Home Equity and Manager, Policy Change

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 Policy Change Team supports and engages in policy and advocacy to realize the systemic reforms necessary to achieve the Trust's strategic goals. The teams work to support the landscape of organizations and coalitions working to reform inequitable laws and policies that created and perpetuated the racial and ethnic wealth gap.

The Homeownership and Small Business Team focuses on supporting households that have faced systemic barriers to building wealth in two areas where the Trust believes it can have the greatest impact: (1) increasing homeownership and home equity and (2) boosting income and financial assets.

What You'll Do

The intern has an active role in supporting both the Homeownership and Policy Change teams through their work in developing learning memos, presenting findings, and participating in convenings to further develop the intern's presentation and writing skills while advancing the learning agenda of the Trust.

Expected Assignments:

  • Review existing impact frameworks for funding programs to determine alignment with priorities; make recommendations based on past grantmaking.

  • Participate in meetings with potential grant applicants, documenting important information, and providing feedback on alignment with strategic priorities.

  • Review existing impact frameworks for funding programs to determine alignment with Homeownership and Policy Change priorities; make recommendations based on past grantmaking.

  • Track, document, and assess opportunities to increase access to capital aligned with Homeownership and Small Business priorities.

  • Participate in meetings with potential grant applicants, 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.

  • Complete other duties as assigned.

Work Environment

This internship follows a hybrid schedule:

  • 2 days in office (Tuesday, Thursday)

  • 1 day remote

Timeline

This posting will close at 4:59PM CST on Friday July 24, 2026.

  • Application Cycle (7/15 - 7/24)

  • 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)


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

  • 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!