Position: McFarland Recreation Aquatics & Play Summer Internship
Posting Date: March 12, 2026 Closing Date: April 6, 2026 Start Date: Flexible, as early as May 1st Number of Positions: Summer Internship Positions Location: McFarland School District Facilities & McFarland Community Parks Compensation: Starting at $16/hr, depending on experience
Description: McFarland Recreation, Aquatics & Play (MRAP) is seeking motivated individuals with a passion for aquatics, recreation, and community programming to support our Summer 2026 operations. These internships provide hands-on, real-world experience in recreation and aquatic facility management, swim lesson coordination and instruction, program development, and the day-to-day operations that keep a busy community department running smoothly. Interns will gain valuable exposure to planning, staff support, participant engagement, and operational logistics while helping deliver meaningful, high-quality experiences to our community. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals pursuing careers in parks and recreation, aquatics management, physical education, or community services.
Position Overview: These positions will primarily support operations for the McFarland School District. Interns will work closely with and report directly to the Director of Community Services & Programming and the Recreation & Aquatic Supervisors. Interns serve as on-site support leaders and play an important role in delivering safe, engaging, and high-quality community programs.
Primary Responsibilities: Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
• Assist with staff trainings by program area • Assist with on-site management and leadership support for programs • Assist with swim lesson management and instruction • Support aquatic and recreation programming operations • Assist with patron communication and customer service • Create promotional and marketing materials using photographs captured during programs (e.g., Canva and other digital platforms) • Assist with facility oversight, organization, and equipment management • Support daily operational logistics across MRAP programs
Interns will gain experience in:
• Aquatic facility management • Recreation program administration • Staff supervision and service leadership • Risk management and safety oversight • Community engagement and customer service • Marketing and program promotion • Collaborative teamwork within a municipal/community setting
Schedule: Summer seasonal position. Hours will vary based on program needs and may include mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends. To work additional hours, interns can work as Lifeguards, Managers, and swim lesson instructors.
Qualifications:
• Must be 18 years of age or older • Ability to work 20-40 hours per week for an 8-12 week summer period • Knowledge and/or experience in aquatics, recreation, community programming, or related fields • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work collaboratively with staff, families, and community members • Demonstrated initiative, leadership skills, and attention to detail • Ability to assist with staff supervision and provide on-site program support • Proficiency with technology, including the use of digital cameras, Google Suite, and creating promotional or social media content • Ability to travel between work locations within the McFarland community (park shelters, schools, recreation office, etc.) may be required.
Certifications: Required or willing to obtain
• Current American Red Cross Lifeguard certification valid for the length of employment, or American Red Cross CPR/AED/First Aid certification
Hiring Authority: Stu Schaefer, Director of Community Services and Programming McFarland Recreation Aquatics & Play (MRAP) 6204 Farwell St. McFarland, WI 53558 Phone: 608-838-3168, option 3 Email: schaefs@mcfsd.org
TITLE IX COMPLIANCE: McFarland School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, creed, pregnancy, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation (including transgender status, change of sex or gender identity), English language proficiency, age, military status, or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability in its education programs or in employment. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX may be directed to: SCHOOL DISTRICT OF MCFARLAND or to the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, Dept. of Health,