STEAM Summer Internship Program

Are you interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, or Math?

Are you a high school junior or senior and an Elgin resident?

This summer, the City of Elgin is hiring sevenstudents who live in Elgin for our STEAM Summer Internship Program. Interns will gain hands-on experience in ITS, Parks, the Zoo, Communications and Engagement, and Community Development.

The program provides high school juniors and seniors with a proven interest in STEAM fields the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that make Elgin a better place to live and work — all while developing real-world skills and professional experience.

STEAM internships with the City of Elgin offer hands-on experience across multiple departments — from troubleshooting computer systems and supporting IT operations, to assessing the health of public trees, to assisting with community outreach initiatives. Interns play a valuable role in helping keep Elgin running smoothly throughout the summer while gaining meaningful, real-world job skills.

Information Technology Services (ITS) DepartmentGain hands-on experience with the technology that powers city operations. Interns will learn about municipal software and hardware systems, perform computer maintenance and troubleshooting, assist with software upgrades, and support IT staff with various technical projects. Perfect for students interested in IT careers, computer science, or information systems.
Community Development

Gain hands-on experience in city planning and architectural review within the Community Development Department. While working with the city's Historic Preservation Planner, the student would assist in researching the history of homes throughout Elgin as well as assist with maintaining and updating data on the HistoricElgin.com website. The intern would also help scan and organize historic documents and files, while collaborating with neighborhood groups and local museums on preservation-related initiatives. This opportunity is ideal for students interested in history, architecture, and community heritage.

Communications and Engagement
This hands-on opportunity offers experience in municipal communications, including capturing and editing video and photography, creating social media and website content, and collaborating with various city departments to share impactful stories. The intern will gain professional portfolio development, mentorship, and exposure to careers in marketing, communications, and local government. Ideal candidates are creative and motivated with a strong interest in storytelling, social media, and public service.
Hawthorne Hills Nature CenterWork alongside the Nature Center Naturalist in this environmentally focused role. Interns will assist with ecological restoration projects, develop and deliver educational programming, conduct tours for visitors, and help maintain the center's natural exhibits. Ideal for students studying environmental science, education, or conservation.
Lords Park ZooExperience animal care and zoological operations firsthand. Interns will help feed and care for both domesticated and wild animals, assist with habitat maintenance, ensure animal safety and welfare, and potentially support educational programming for zoo visitors. This position is perfect for students interested in animal science, zoology, or wildlife management.

The City of Elgin’s STEAM Summer Internship Program invites creative problem-solvers to contribute to meaningful projects that strengthen and improve the community. As an intern, you’ll gain hands-on experience, develop valuable real-world skills, and make a lasting impact in Elgin.

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be entering junior or senior year of high school

• Reside in Elgin

What Will I Do?

STEAM internships with the City of Elgin offer diverse, hands-on experiences across the organization. From providing IT support and caring for animals at Lords Park Zoo, to conducting ecological restoration at Hawthorne Hills Nature Center and assisting with economic development initiatives, each position offers valuable career exposure and meaningful professional development.

Program Details

Dates: June 1 - August 14, 2026

Hours: Approximately 30 hours per week

Compensation:$15.00 per hour

Requirements: All candidates must successfully pass a background investigation, criminal history record check, and drug test prior to employment

Academic Credit: This program may provide elective credit for some high schools

Questions?Contact Human Resources at 847-931-6076