IT Intern

Salary: $15.00 - $20.76 Hourly
Location : Municipal Services; 800 N Field Dr, Lake Forest, IL
Job Type: Part Time
Department: Innovation and Technology
Opening Date: 08/06/2026


Description
Are you looking to gain hands-on experience in a fast-paced IT environment? The City of Lake Forest is seeking a motivated and curious IT Intern to support technology operations across a wide range of City departments, including Police, Fire, Public Works, Recreation, Community Development, Finance, Human Resources, and City Hall.

This part-time, year-round internship offers more than a typical seasonal or summer internship. Over a period of up to 24 months, the IT Intern will work closely with the City's IT team to solve help desk issues, support technology projects, assist with computer imaging and deployment, and gain exposure to enterprise systems, cybersecurity, networking, cloud environments, and end-user support.

This is a great opportunity for someone pursuing a career in information technology who wants meaningful hands-on experience, strong mentoring, and the chance to build a well-rounded technical foundation.

Examples of Duties

• Provide help desk support and assist employees with technology questions and issues
• Assist with Windows computer imaging, setup, deployment, and configuration
• Support enterprise IT infrastructure, including workstations, networks, servers, and related systems
• Assist with technology projects, process improvements, and system updates
• Support data security initiatives and learn about multi-layered security practices
• Assist with maintaining on-premise and hybrid cloud environments
• Gain exposure to Microsoft 365, SQL, Active Directory administration, Cisco networking, and related technologies
• Document work, track issues, and support continuous improvement of IT processes
• Interact professionally with City staff across multiple departments

Qualifications

• Knowledge of troubleshooting home or office applications, workstations, networks, and smartphone technology
• Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Information Systems, or a related field
• Strong customer service, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills

• Interest in enterprise IT, cybersecurity, networking, systems administration, and technology support
• Ability to learn quickly, ask thoughtful questions, and work both independently and as part of a team
• Technical certifications are a plus
• Must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver's license

Supplemental Information
Why Join the City of Lake Forest?

• Gain exposure to a broader range of technology than many traditional internships.
• Work alongside a supportive five-person IT team in a high-energy, enterprise environment.
• Build experience supporting diverse City operations, including public safety, public works, recreation, finance, HR, community development, and City administration.
• Develop practical skills in help desk support, computer deployment, infrastructure, cybersecurity, networking, and systems administration.
• Use this opportunity as a strong entry-level steppingstone for a future career in IT.

Hours and Pay

• Part-time, year-round internship with a duration of up to 24 months
• Approximately 28-32 hours per week
• Typical schedule is Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
• Anticipated Hiring Rate : Starting at $16.00 per hour, depending on qualifications
• Full pay range : $15.00 - $20.76
• Benefits: IMRF pension, vacation time

Interested applicants are encouraged to review the full job description here:


The City of Lake Forest is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and experiences.
No benefits are associated with this position.