What the CHA intern program offers and who can explore

The Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) runs an internship program for college students that places interns in departments across the agency—finance, real estate, human resources, communications, and others. The program is typically seasonal, with positions available during summer and sometimes during the academic year. Interns work on real projects alongside CHA staff, not busywork, and gain experience in public housing operations, affordable housing development, and government administration.

To be considered, you must be enrolled full-time at an accredited college or university. Most positions require sophomore status or higher, though some entry-level roles may accept freshmen. You'll need a valid Social Security number, proof of citizenship or work authorization, and the ability to pass a background check. The CHA does not sponsor visa holders, so you must already have work authorization in the United States.

Pay varies by position and your year in school, but CHA internships are paid—not volunteer roles. The hourly rate is typically set by the CHA's human resources department and may differ from federal minimum wage depending on the role and your experience level.

Key Takeaways

  • CHA internships are paid positions in departments like finance, real estate, and communications, available mainly during summer months.
  • You must be a full-time college student, usually sophomore status or higher, with valid work authorization in the United States.
  • The process process begins with the CHA careers page or a direct inquiry to the human resources department, and important date vary by year.
  • Background checks are required, and the CHA does not sponsor visa holders or provide work authorization.
  • Internship length typically ranges from 8 to 12 weeks, with schedules that may be flexible around the academic calendar.

How to find and explore for a CHA internship

The primary route is the CHA careers website, where the agency posts open internship positions. Visit the Chicago Housing Authority's main website and look for a "Careers" or "Jobs" link. Internship postings are usually labeled clearly and include the department, start date, duration, and specific responsibilities. You can also contact the CHA human resources department directly by phone or email to ask about upcoming internship cycles and whether positions are currently open.

Applications typically require a resume, a cover letter, and sometimes a writing sample or short essay. The CHA may ask why you're interested in public housing or affordable housing work, so be specific about what draws you to the organization. Submit your materials by the posted important date—these vary year to year, but summer internship important date often fall in March or April.

After you submit, expect to wait several weeks before hearing back. If you advance, you'll likely have a phone or video interview with an HR representative or the department supervisor. Some positions include a second-round interview. The entire process from process to offer typically takes 4 to 8 weeks.

What to expect during the internship

CHA internships are structured around real work. You won't be filing papers or making coffee; you'll be assigned to a specific project or team within your department. A finance intern might help analyze budget data or track expenditures. A real estate intern might information with property assessments or lease documentation. A communications intern might contribute to newsletters, social media, or event planning. Your supervisor will set clear expectations and important date.

Hours are typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, though some flexibility may exist if you negotiate it during the offer stage. Most internships run 8 to 12 weeks, often aligned with the summer break. The CHA office is located in downtown Chicago, so you'll need reliable transportation or housing nearby for the duration.

You'll work alongside CHA staff and may attend meetings, training sessions, or site visits. This is a chance to see how a major public housing authority operates and to build a network of contacts in affordable housing and public administration. Many interns return for a second summer or transition into entry-level jobs after graduation.

Background check requirements and timeline

Before you start, the CHA will conduct a background check. This includes a criminal history search, employment verification, and sometimes a credit check depending on the role. The process typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. You'll be asked to authorize the check and provide personal information; the CHA uses a third-party screening company to handle this.

A background check does not automatically disqualify you if you have a criminal record. The CHA evaluates the nature of the offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether it relates to the job. Misdemeanors and minor felonies from years ago are often not barriers. If you have concerns, you can ask the HR department what their policy is before you explore.

Internship pay and benefits

CHA internships are paid positions. The hourly rate depends on your year in school and the department, but it is typically above minimum wage. As of recent years, rates have ranged from $15 to $18 per hour, though this varies and may have changed. You'll receive a paystub and taxes will be withheld as with any job.

Interns are generally not offered health insurance, retirement benefits, or paid time off. You accrue no vacation days, and if you need to take time off, you'll need to discuss it with your supervisor. Some departments may offer flexibility around academic schedules, but this is not may provide.

Timing and how to plan ahead

If you want a summer internship, start looking in January or February. Most postings go live in February or March, with important date in April or May. If you're a freshman or sophomore, you can still reach out to the CHA HR department to ask when internships open and what the requirements are for your class year. This gives you time to prepare your resume and cover letter.

During the academic year, the CHA sometimes offers part-time internships for students who can work 10 to 15 hours per week. These are less common and more competitive, but they do exist. Ask HR whether fall or spring positions are available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in Chicago to explore?

No, but you'll need to be in Chicago during your internship since the CHA office is downtown and most positions are in-person. Some students commute from suburbs; others find housing for the summer. The CHA does not provide housing or relocation information for interns.

Can I explore if I'm not a Chicago resident?

Yes. The CHA hires interns from colleges across Illinois and beyond. You must be enrolled full-time at an accredited university, but it does not have to be in Illinois. You'll still need work authorization in the United States.

What if I have a criminal record?

The CHA does not automatically reject applicants with a criminal history. They evaluate each case based on the nature of the offense, when it occurred, and whether it relates to the position. If you're concerned, contact HR before explore and ask how they handle background checks.

Can I get college credit for the internship?

That depends on your college. Some schools allow you to register an internship for credit if you meet certain requirements. Contact your college's career services or academic advisor to see whether the CHA internship qualifies and what paperwork you'll need.

What happens after the internship ends?

Some interns are invited back for a second summer. Others transition into entry-level positions at the CHA after graduation. There's no may provide of a job offer, but the internship is a strong credential for future work in public housing, affordable housing nonprofits, or city government.