HR and Operations Intern

Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW) is a public foundation working to advance gender equity, which we believe to be inherently interconnected with racial, economic, and health equity. CFW envisions a world in which all women and girls, and gender-expansive people have the opportunity to thrive in safe, just, and healthy communities. We celebrate the spectrum of identities and experiences of women and girls, and gender-expansive people uplift their leadership and center the voices of the community to achieve true equity. To support our philanthropy, the Foundation promotes increased investment in women and girls, and gender-expansive people raises awareness about their issues, potential and develops them as leaders and philanthropists. Since 1985, the Foundation has awarded over $53 million to hundreds of organizations that help achieve its mission of gender equity across the Chicago region.

CFW looks at the broad spectrum of needs of all women, girls, and gender-expansive people. We support the areas of freedom from violence, economic security, and access to health, which we see as integrally related and are paths forward toward an equitable society.

About Our Partnership with the LEAD Program

We are proud to partner with The CAFE Group’s LEAD Internship Program, which connects college students from underrepresented backgrounds to paid internships in the social impact and philanthropic sectors. Through this partnership, we dedicate ourselves to offering valuable work experiences, mentorship, and professional growth opportunities.

As part of the program, interns take part in professional development sessions as a group, connecting with peers across partner organizations to participate in leadership trainings, build their social capital, and access networks and resources that enhance their paths to success. Together, we strive to promote
inclusive leadership, nurture
talent, and help create a future where equity, opportunity, and belonging are central to the workforce.

About the Internship:

The HR and Operations Intern will support core administrative, human resources and operational functions that help the Foundation run smoothly. The intern will gain hands-on experience in data management, staff engagement, and day-to-day operational support.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in maximizing the Foundation’s HRIS system by preparing ad‑hoc reports, documenting processes, and supporting staff in using system tools to improve accuracy and efficiency
• Support the design, distribution, and analysis of staff surveys to inform organizational decision‑making
• Provide support in developing AI-related tools and processes
• Coordinate annual compliance training, including scheduling, tracking completion, and preparing related materials
• Manage meeting logistics by scheduling, preparing materials, and ensuring smooth setup
• Conduct research to inform HR and operational process improvements and recommend updates to workflows
• Contribute to staff engagement efforts and assist with internal culture‑building activities
• Provide ongoing administrative and project support to the HR and Operations team
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Work Environment:

• This position operates in an office environment that is accessible. Some work at off-site locations may be required, and those may not necessarily be fully accessible.
• This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers, video conferencing services, scanners, and filing cabinets.
• Travel between the office and other locations may be required.
• Workplace is a smoke and drug-free environment.
• CFW is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to employ qualified individuals based on individual merit. CFW does not discriminate against any individual with respect to the terms and conditions of employment based on that individual’s race, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, disability, genetic information, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, housing status, or any other non-merit factor protected under state, local or federal laws. Equal Employment Opportunity applies to all personnel actions such as recruiting, hiring, compensation, benefits, promotions, training, transfer, termination, and opportunities for training. CFW is committed to a fair and equitable workplace where everyone is a respected and valued member of the team.

Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an accredited 2- or 4-year institution
• Available to work up to 35 hours per week in Chicago from June 1st – August 7, 2026 (no relocation support provided)
• Strong organizational, communication, and time management skills, with high attention to details
• Works effectively with all levels of staff and volunteers; team player
• Flexible and adaptable style

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

• Passion for CFW’s mission

Compensation:

Paid internship of $20 per hour, approximately 35 hours per week from June 1, 2026, to August 7, 2026. Gain hands-on experience in philanthropic work. Participate in weekly professional development and cohort activities. Contribute to advancing equity and social impact.

Application Process:

Please submit a resume and a cover letter explaining your interest in the internship and how your skills/experiences align with the mission of Chicago Foundation for Women.