Human Resources Intern (Fall​/Winter 2026

HR Intern

The Robert R. McCormick Foundation is a leading philanthropic institution investing more than $75 million annually in Chicagoland, with a focus on improving economic opportunities on Chicago's South and West Sides. The Foundation is named for its donor, Colonel Robert R. McCormick. The Foundation's Board of Directors also oversees Cantigny, Col. McCormick's estate, which today provides educational and recreational opportunities in Chicago's western suburbs.

The 500-acre Cantigny estate includes McCormick's Home and Gardens, which host dozens of programs and events annually for nearly half a million visitors; the First Division Museum, a military history museum that tells the story of the U.S. Army's 1st Infantry Division, beginning in World War I, in which Col. McCormick served, to present; and Cantigny Golf, a 27-hole public golf course and a 9-hole short course, perfect for children and families.

We are looking for an HR Intern to support organizational goals through talent management, employee engagement, and operational excellence. In this role, the Intern collaborates with the HR team to execute recruitment and day-to-day HR operations. By leveraging analytical skills and a passion for people-centric initiatives, the HR Intern contributes to creating an equitable and thriving environment that aligns with the organization's mission and values.

This is a part-time position based in Wheaton that reports to the HR Generalist. This internship will run from August 2026-December 2026.

Essential Functions

• Maintain and update employee records in HR systems and ensure data accuracy.
• Assist with preparing HR reports, presentations, and training materials.
• Support the planning and execution of employee engagement initiatives, such as events, surveys, and recognition programs.
• Contribute to specific HR projects, such as diversity and inclusion initiatives, process improvement, or policy updates.
• Assist with posting job openings on various platforms and managing application tracking systems.
• Coordinate communication with candidates.
• Conduct screening calls and interviews as needed.
• Support benefits administration by preparing enrollment materials and assisting during open enrollment periods.
• Support new hire onboarding by preparing materials and ensuring compliance with documentation requirements.

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in human resources or related field. Working towards a master's degree.
• 0-1 years of experience.

Skills:

• Ability to build positive relationships and collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
• Clear written and verbal communication for professional interactions and presentations.
• Strong time management and attention to detail for handling multiple tasks efficiently.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, or similar tools for administrative tasks.
• Willingness to learn HR-specific tools like HRIS or ATS systems.
• Openness to feedback and a desire to develop HR-specific knowledge.
• Awareness and appreciation of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles.
• Willingness to collaborate and contribute to team objectives.
• Ability to work 20hrs a week

Working Conditions:

This is a full-time position based in Wheaton that reports to the HR Generalist. Most work is performed in a typical office environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Cantigny Park and the Robert R. McCormick Foundation provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, individuals with disabilities, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital and housing status.