New Work Exploration Intern - Summer 2027

MacArthur Foundation • Chicago, IL

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

The New Work Exploration Intern will help the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation explore how philanthropy can support young people’s well-being, voice, and agency. Working closely with the Research Project Manager and colleagues, the intern will translate research and stakeholder perspectives into program strategy, planning, internal communications, and knowledge sharing. This is a mentored learning experience that advances department goals; assignments may evolve with team priorities and the intern’s interests, with regular guidance and feedback.

The internship runs from June 8 to August 11, 2027, and is based in Chicago, Illinois, in a hybrid work environment with designated in-office and virtual days. Interns must reside in the Chicagoland area for the duration of the program. Housing assistance for non-local students may be available and will be discussed during interviews. The internship is paid, with hourly rates starting at $22.00. Applicants must be returning to school to be eligible.

Requirements

• Be an undergraduate or graduate student in public policy, social sciences, nonprofit management, public health, science, and/or humanities.
• Have experience and interest in approaches to youth engagement, building voice and agency, and/or supporting mental health and well-being.
• Have strong research and writing skills.
• Have internet and social media fluency.
• Be flexible and able to manage multiple assignments.
• Be returning to school to be eligible.
• Reside in the Chicagoland area for the duration of the program.

Nice To Haves

• Some prior interaction with nonprofit organizations is desired.
• Experience with efforts supporting young people ages 13–25 to learn while developing and practicing skills in fields such as civic engagement, organizing, justice, climate, journalism, and/or arts and culture is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct and synthesize research on relevant issues, organizations, philanthropic approaches, and the Foundation’s internal practices and archives, producing briefs that inform strategy and planning.
• Research approaches to meaningful youth participation and support stakeholder engagement through outreach messages, meeting preparation, and participation in conversations, convenings, or site visits, as opportunities arise.
• Analyze potential and current grant recipients’ efforts to engage and/or support positive outcomes for youth in pursuit of their missions and goals.
• Develop and present a final project selected with the team that reflects the intern’s interests, synthesizes learning, and contributes to the department’s work. Possible formats include a research brief, practical toolkit, stakeholder landscape, or another agreed-upon resource.
• Participate in team meetings, staff learning opportunities, and regular mentorship and feedback sessions.
• Contribute to related short-term research, planning, or program activities as needs arise.

Benefits

• Paid internship, with hourly rates starting at $22.00.
• Housing assistance for non-local students may be available and will be discussed during the interview process.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed