Internship Program

Kendall County Health Department is pleased to share information about our upcoming internship opportunities across several program areas. These internships are designed to provide meaningful, hands-on experience and professional development for students interested in public service and community-focused work. 

Our Internship Program provides qualified students and recent graduates with an opportunity to learn more about Public Health. KCHD may have internship opportunities available throughout the year. Qualified interns will work alongside KCHD professionals on exciting projects benefiting our community while gaining hands-on experience.  

By mentoring and coaching interns, KCHD aims to: 

• Deliver an enriching internship experience for both interns and Public Health employees. 

• Provide interns with a better understanding of Kendall County Health Department operations and create pathways to public service for individuals starting their careers. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What internship opportunities are available?

• Environmental Health, Summer Internship - Open to students interested in environmental health programs, prevention strategies, and community outreach. 
• Community Action, Spring/Summer/Fall/Winter Internships - Opportunities to support community-based initiatives, advocacy, and program implementation.
• Community Health, Summer Internship - Focused on health education, outreach, and initiatives that promote overall community well-being.
• Mental Health, Spring/Summer/Fall/Winter Internships - Graduate-level students only. These internships provide experience supporting mental health programs, services, and community engagement.

 Internships may be available for academic credit, depending on your institution’s requirements. Specific duties, schedules, and eligibility requirements may vary by program. 

How do I apply for an internship with the Kendall County Health Department?

To be considered for an internship opportunity with KCHD, students must complete the Kendall County Health Department’s Internship Program Application. Students should send their completed Internship Application and resume to KCHD’s Human Resources Coordinator, 811 W. John Street, Yorkville, Illinois 60560, or email KCHDHR@kendallcountyil.gov.

Click here for the Kendall County Health Department Application for Student Internship.

Do you have to be a resident of Kendall County to apply?

No, internship opportunities do not require that applicants be Kendall County residents. 

How are interns selected?

Once an application and resume have been submitted, directors from the applicable department will then review the materials, contact applicants for an interview, and select an applicant for an internship opportunity. All applicants selected for an internship opportunity will receive an offer that is contingent upon the individual completing a criminal background check. 

How long do you keep applications on file?

Because the availability of internship positions depends on a department or elected office’s needs, we keep all Internship Program applications received in our active files for six (6) months after the date of receipt. 

How long do the internships last?

KCHD offers internship opportunities year-round. Most of our internships are typically a semester in length. However, shorter or longer internship opportunities may be available depending on the operational needs of the applicable department. 

How many hours is an intern expected to work during their internship?

Flexibility concerning the days, number of hours, and length of time interns will work depends upon the intern’s availability and the operational needs of the applicable department. Interns can coordinate flexible work schedules with their assigned Intern Supervisor. No remote work will be permitted. 

Can I earn academic credits while working as an intern?

Yes, provided your academic institution has authorized you to receive academic credit for the internship.

Does the Kendall County Health Department Internship Program accept individuals with disabilities?

Yes, our Internship Program accepts individuals with disabilities. KCHD will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified applicants with disabilities in accordance with state and federal law. If you need accommodation for the application process or the internship assignment, please contact the Human Resource Coordinator at 630-553-8053. 

What if I have more questions or need further information/guidance?

Please contact the Human Resource Coordinator at 630-553-9100 or KCHDHR@kendallcountyil.gov.