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Recreation Internships Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Student Internships

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Student interns assist by supporting agency mission and values at Four Oaks. Through internship ... Provide help with homework, recreational activities, reading, hobbies and computer skills.

Intern (Unpaid)

Independence, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

... current projects, internship opportunities may be available in the following areas ... Parks & Recreation: Assisting with program management, facility operations, and event planning.

Acute Clinical Staff Pharmacist

Hamburg, IA · On-site

$55.50 - $65.50/hr

This role oversees pharmacy technicians and interns, coordinates workflow, verifies and approves ... recreational activities. POSITION SUMMARY This position is responsible for the delivery of ...

Civil Engineer in Training

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$61K - $71K/yr

... and recreation facilities. The result: vibrant economic centers, resilient neighborhoods, and ... Minimum of 1 year of related professional work or Co-op/Internship experience preferred. * Engineer ...

Control Systems Engineer

Dubuque, IA · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

Experience through internships, co-ops, academic projects, or professional engineering roles ... recreational, industrial, and special machines. Our work includes concept development, product ...

... recreation. The metro area of more than 600,000 has a small-town, know-your-neighbor feel to it. It ... internship programs in allied health professions. Basic Responsibilities * Treatment and ...

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Recreation Internships information

What is a recreation internship?

Recreation internships are short-term work experiences that allow students or recent graduates to gain practical skills in the field of recreation, such as parks and recreation, community centers, outdoor education, or sports management. These internships provide hands-on learning opportunities, helping interns to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Interns may assist with program planning, event organization, facility management, and community outreach. The experience gained is valuable for building a career in recreation or related fields.

What do recreation interns do?

As a Recreation Intern, you will likely assist with planning, organizing, and delivering a variety of recreational programs and events, such as sports leagues, summer camps, or community wellness activities. You may also help with daily operations, facility management, and participant engagement, gaining hands-on experience in both administrative and on-the-ground roles. Interns often work closely with full-time recreation staff, volunteers, and community members, allowing for valuable networking and mentorship opportunities. This role provides a well-rounded introduction to the field and can often lead to entry-level positions within parks and recreation departments or nonprofit organizations.

What skills and qualifications are needed for a recreation internship?

To thrive in Recreation Internships, you generally need a background in recreation management, physical education, or a related field, often as a current student or recent graduate. Familiarity with event scheduling software, activity planning tools, and basic first aid certification is commonly expected. Strong interpersonal skills, initiative, and adaptability help interns effectively engage participants and support diverse programs. These abilities are crucial for delivering safe, enjoyable recreational experiences and contributing positively to team goals.

What is the difference between Recreation Internships vs Recreation Coordinators?

AspectRecreation InternshipsRecreation Coordinators
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or have completed a degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related fieldBachelor's degree in recreation, leisure studies, or related field; some roles may require certification
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, community centers, parks, recreational facilitiesFull-time roles in parks, community centers, recreational organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations to train future professionals; often part of educational programsFull-time staff responsible for program planning, facility management, and community engagement

Recreation Internships are entry-level positions designed for students or recent graduates gaining practical experience, often part of educational programs. Recreation Coordinators are full-time professionals managing recreational programs and facilities. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a Recreation Coordinator, who holds more responsibilities and requires more experience.

What are popular job titles related to Recreation Internships jobs in Iowa?

For Recreation Internships jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Recreation Internships job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Student Internships

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

Four Oaks
Non-Profits • 501 - 1,000 employees

$14.75 - $19.25/hr

Internship

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Student interns assist by supporting agency mission and values at Four Oaks. Through internship opportunities at Four Oaks, students gain practical experiences in a diverse & inclusive environment. Experiences will assist students with transitioning into young professionals; along with completing degree program requirements.
General duties:
  • Assist program with consistent, ongoing, and timely supervision for basic client needs.
  • Provide help with homework, recreational activities, reading, hobbies and computer skills.
  • Participate in diverse, therapeutic groups and maintain therapeutic relationships with clients at all times.
  • Attend inter-disciplinary meetings to review case progress and provide the best care for clients.
  • Become familiar with individualized case plans as deemed appropriate by supervisor.
  • Understands impact of client's behaviors and their own interactions.
  • Learns and utilizes a proactive/preventative method of intercepting problems to neutralize situations before they escalate, and involve primary staff whenever necessary.
  • Creates or conducts an educational project that better serves clients in care, efficiencies in program or organization in client files, assignments or daily tracking.

What you need:
  • Must be pursing a degree in a Human Service related field such as: Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, Criminal Justice, Social Psychology, Family Services or Social Work
  • Strong socialization skills and/or experience working with children is desired, but not required
  • Maintains appropriate professional boundaries and follows Social Work Code of Ethics
  • It is expected that an instructor from the student's respective college/university acts as a liaison between Four Oaks and the school to ensure required education components are fulfilled. If selected to complete an internship at Four Oaks, your experience will be customized to your needs and areas of interest.