About the role#
This internship offers a hands-on look at amusement park operations, event planning, and business leadership. You will work directly with department managers to oversee the Food & Beverage (F&B) department, gaining experience in both office-based planning and on-the-ground execution. This role is designed to help you develop your management, communication, and leadership skills throughout the summer season.
What you'll do#
- Supervise daily operations for the F&B special events team and assigned departments.
- Mentor, coach, and train hosts, including participating in hiring and performance management.
- Plan and execute special events, such as concerts and seasonal festivals, while coordinating support for bands.
- Lead F&B areas and complete projects to improve operational efficiency and sales.
- Assist with product inventory, ordering, and stocking.
- Collaborate with Culinary and Marketing teams to develop new menu items and marketing materials.
- Backfill F&B positions as needed and assist with food preparation and sales during peak times.
- Ensure compliance with food safety practices and resolve escalated guest concerns.
- Assist with team scheduling, timekeeping, and ensuring meal breaks follow Iowa law.
What you'll need#
- Recent graduate or at least 2+ years of undergraduate study in Supply Chain, Hospitality, Marketing, Business Management, Event Management, or a related field.
- At least 1 year of work experience in an event, guest experience, or hospitality role.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Valid driver’s license with a good driving record.
- Ability to obtain Food Handler Safety Certification (ServSafe or similar) within 90 days of hire.
- Strong communication skills and the ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Previous theme park or waterpark experience is a plus, as are bilingual language skills.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, paid internship based in Altoona, Iowa.
- Work will be performed on-site in both office settings and various indoor and outdoor park locations.
- You will be exposed to variable weather conditions, high noise levels, and active, populated environments.
- Physical requirements include standing for long periods, lifting 30+ pounds, and working near heat-generating kitchen equipment.
About Herschend Family Entertainment
Herschend Family Entertainment operates theme parks, aquariums, and resorts across North America. Founded in 1950, the company is a family-held business based in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. It employs over 10,000 people to manage more than four dozen attractions. The organization focuses on creating experiences for families.
How to get in at Herschend Family Entertainment
Securing an internship at Herschend Family Entertainment requires keeping a close watch on their career portal. Because roles fill quickly, Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere. This allows you to apply among the first, ensuring your materials are seen before the applicant pile grows too large. Beyond the initial application, you should try to connect with the team directly. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out to ask about the position or a referral. This direct approach often improves your response rates compared to submitting through a general portal.
