Recreation Intern

Job Description

Job Description

Description :

Incorporated in 1955 and encompassing more than 454 acres, the Mt. Prospect Park District provides outstanding recreational programs, events, parks, facilities and services. With seven primary facilities and 27 neighborhood parks, the Park District is an integral part of a thriving multi-generational community. District open space includes two outdoor pools, biking and walking paths, a dog park and sizable space for outdoor athletic programming. The District covers over 11 square miles and serves a region of over a quarter million residents in Mount Prospect and surrounding communities.

The Mt. Prospect Park District is searching for a Recreation Intern, who is interested in gaining hands-on experience assisting in the planning, coordination, and execution of recreational programs and events within Mt. Prospect Park District, during the summer season. The Recreation Intern will work alongside the recreation team to help enhance the participant experience through recreational, educational, and community-building activities. This position will oversee various programs, complete and present a research project for the Park District Leadership Team, and spend time in all departments learning the operations of the Park District.

The Recreation Intern can expect to work between mid-May, 2025, through early August, 2025, for approximately 35-40 hours per week (less than 1,000 hours annually), primarily between 9 am and 5 pm, with the ability to work special events in the evening and on the weekend. The Recreation Intern must have reliable transportation to go between facilities and parks. Additionally, the Recreation Intern must be able to successfully pass a criminal background check. The starting pay rate for the Recreation Intern is $15 per hour. Plus, we offer park district facility and programming usage benefits.

Requirements : ESSENTIAL DUTIES :

Assist in organizing and leading various recreational activities amongst all departments such as athletics, aquatics, fitness, day camps, cultural arts, marketing, frontline / facility operations, and special events.

Assist in the planning and implementation of recreational programs, events, and activities for diverse age groups (e.g., children, teens, adults, seniors).

Help with the preparation of program materials, including schedules, equipment / supplies, and space setup.

Assist with program registration and participant communication.

Support in maintaining the safety and well-being of participants during activities.

Provide customer service to participants by answering questions, addressing concerns, and ensuring a positive recreational experience.

Assist in promoting and marketing programs and activities via social media, flyers, and newsletters.

Help in tracking attendance, participation, and feedback for program evaluation.

Prepare and organize necessary equipment and supplies for programs and events, ensuring all items are clean, organized, and ready for use.

Contribute ideas to improve programs and assist with event planning and coordination.

Participate in team meetings and share insights for improvements to recreation programs.

Become proficient with Park District policies and procedures.

Establish relationships and network with outside organizations.

SECONDARY DUTIES :

Serve on Park District committees as assigned.

Perform additional duties as assigned which may be considered essential.

Perform all other duties as assigned by the Recreation Staff, Director of Recreation, and / or the Executive Director. However, in an emergency perform all duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS :

Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Recreation, Sports Management, or a related field.

Strong communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

Passion for indoor & outdoor leisure activities, sports, fitness and community engagement

Must possess a valid driver's license.

Must be proficient in MS Office, Google Workspace, database software, internet and website portals.

Strong oral and written communication skills are required. Must be able to communicate effectively with others to allow for coordination of work, safety and in emergency situations as needed.

Possess a high level of energy, social skills, initiative and enthusiasm.

Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Basic knowledge of recreational program planning is a plus.

Must demonstrate good judgment and discretion.

Must be flexible and able to handle more than one task / assignment at a time.

Must possess excellent customer service skills and have a pleasant demeanor and cooperative attitude.

Must be able to work well with others as well as independently with minimal supervision.

Must be able to proactively troubleshoot, problem solve and make sound judgments.

Must be able to lift 25 pounds for supplies and other items. Must be able to perform tasks that require walking, bending, stooping, kneeling, climbing and reaching. Must be able to sit or stand for sustained periods of time. The general indoor work area is a smoke-free indoor environment with controlled temperature and fluorescent lighting. Exposure to noise distractions from employees or equipment operation in adjacent work areas. Infrequent exposure to cleaning materials and office supplies. Additionally, the Recreation Intern may be exposed to weather conditions including water, sun, high humidity, and excessive heat and cold.

Due to the needs of the Park District, evening and weekend hours may be required. Your work schedule may vary and your workweek may exceed 40 hours at times.

Nothing contained herein shall preclude or limit the Park District from changing this written job description through addition, deletion or modification of essential job duties.

The Mt. Prospect Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Salary : $15