Sports Merchandising Internship Jobs in Naperville, IL

It's fun to work in a company where people truly BELIEVE in what they're doing!

We're committed to bringing passion and customer focus to the business.

The Kane County Cougars are seeking energetic, motivated, and versatile interns to join our team for the upcoming season. This internship offers a hands-on, immersive experience in the day-to-day operations of a professional Minor League Baseball organization. Interns will have the opportunity to contribute across a variety of departments, gaining exposure to key areas of sports and event management including stadium operations, promotions, fan engagement, sales, marketing, and community relations.

Interns will play a crucial role in the execution of game day and non-game day events, rotating through responsibilities such as ushering, guest services, KidZone supervision, concessions, mascot appearances, grounds crew assistance, and more. Interns will also support front office departments on non-game days through projects in marketing, accounting, merchandise, and administrative operations.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION INCLUDE, BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO THE FOLLOWING:

• Support stadium setup and breakdown before and after events.

• Rotate through and perform duties in a variety of roles including: Usher, Parking Attendant, KidZone Supervisor, Concessions Assistant, Mascot Performer or Handler, Grounds Crew Support, Stadium Operations Assistant and Promotions Assistant.

• Execute theme nights and on-field promotions in collaboration with the Promotions Team.

• Ensure exceptional guest service and safety by communicating with game-day staff, security, and other departments.

• Lead or assist in managing game-day staff or volunteer groups, as assigned.

• Assist with post-game evaluations and operational debriefs.

• Assist with marketing and grassroots promotion campaigns.

• Support community relations events and mascot appearances.

• Help with inventory, restocking, and merchandising in the souvenir store.

• Work on special projects in areas such as accounting, sales outreach, and database management.

• Participate in professional development opportunities coordinated by team leadership.

• Other duties as assigned.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Actively pursuing or recently completed a degree in Sports Management, Marketing, Business, Communications, or related field.

• Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.

• Strong work ethic and a team-first attitude.

• Ability to take initiative and remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.

• Willingness to learn and perform in a variety of roles and departments.

• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain).

• Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for long periods.

• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled.

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the job.

If you like wild growth and working with happy, enthusiastic over-achievers, you'll enjoy your career with us!