Event Management Internship

Chicago Running and Special Events Management, Inc. offers an internship program designed to mentor and develop individuals interested in Event Planning, Project Management, and Event Operations.

The internship provides hands-on experience in the planning, coordination, and execution of large-scale special events and street festivals throughout the Chicagoland area. Interns work directly alongside Event Managers and gain exposure to the many departments and responsibilities involved in producing successful events.

The program is designed to introduce interns to all aspects of event production and management, providing an understanding of how individual departments, vendors, clients, and operational teams work together to bring an event from the initial planning stages to completion.

Interns will experience a combination of office responsibilities and on-site fieldwork. While many assignments and projects are directed by Event Managers, interns will have the opportunity to take on responsibilities, assist with ongoing projects, and gain valuable real-world experience in a fast-paced event environment.

Responsibilities

Intern responsibilities and functions will include, but are not limited to:

Event Planning & Project Management

Assist Event Managers with event planning, project coordination, and logistical preparation.
Help coordinate activities and deadlines to ensure project goals and objectives are met within established timelines and budgets.
Assist with permit applications, documentation, and procurement.
Support client communication and coordination.

Event Logistics & Administration

Assist with vendor processing and coordination.
Help manage event supplies, equipment, and inventory.
Assist with sponsorship fulfillment and sponsor requirements.
Support database management, recordkeeping, and administrative tasks.
Assist with event marketing and promotional activities.

Site Development & Event Operations

Assist with venue development, site planning, and event layouts.
Help coordinate equipment placement, infrastructure, and event logistics.
Participate in event setup, preparation, and breakdown.
Work on-site during live events, assisting Event Managers and operational teams.
Provide support across various departments as needed throughout the event process.

Internship Experience

One of the most valuable aspects of this internship is the opportunity to experience multiple departments within the event management industry.

Interns will learn how different areas of event production operate individually and, more importantly, how they depend on one another. From planning and permitting to vendor coordination, site development, logistics, and on-site execution, interns will develop an understanding of what it takes to successfully produce a large-scale special event.

The internship includes both office-based assignments and hands-on field experience. Interns should expect to work directly with Event Managers, assist with assigned projects, and participate in event operations throughout the season.

This is an active, hands-on internship that provides an inside look at the event industry and the teamwork required to bring an event together.

Requirements & Qualifications

Candidates must:

Be self-motivated, dependable, and willing to take initiative.
Be detail-oriented with strong organizational skills.
Possess excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Be comfortable working in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment.
Be flexible and able to adapt to changing priorities and event needs.
Be willing to take direction from Event Managers and assist wherever needed.
Be able to secure reliable transportation at any time of day or night throughout the Chicagoland area.
Be available to work frequent evenings and weekends, as most events take place on weekends.
Be comfortable working both in an office setting and outdoors in various event environments.

Schedule & Compensation

This is a paid internship.
Interns should expect a combination of weekday office work and on-site event assignments.
Frequent evening and weekend availability is required, particularly during active event weekends.
Some event days may involve extended hours, early mornings, late nights, and physical work associated with event setup and breakdown.
Interns are responsible for their own housing, transportation, and living expenses.

What You Will Gain

By participating in the Chicago Running and Special Events Management internship program, interns will gain:

Firsthand experience in the planning and execution of large-scale special events.
Exposure to multiple departments within an event management company.
Practical experience in project management, event logistics, and operations.
The opportunity to work alongside experienced Event Managers and industry professionals.
An understanding of how the different components of an event come together.
Valuable professional, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Our goal is to provide interns with more than just an introduction to event management. We want them to experience the industry firsthand, understand how every department contributes to a successful event, and develop the skills and knowledge needed to pursue future opportunities in the field.

Come ready to learn, work hard, take initiative, and be part of bringing Chicago's special events to life.

Job Types: Internship, Full-time

Pay: $500.00 per week

Benefits:

Flexible schedule

Education:

Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

Microsoft Office: 1 year (Preferred)
Customer Service: 1 year (Preferred)
event management: 1 year (Preferred)

Shift availability:

Day Shift (Preferred)
Night Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chicago, IL 60609