Top 10 Tech Internships Offered in Chicago
Last Updated: December 22nd 2024
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Chicago is booming with tech opportunities, offering a 65-70% job offer rate for interns from top companies like Google, Microsoft, and IBM. The city's tech ecosystem has grown 18% over the past decade, now employing over 106,000 people, and internships provide hands-on experience and invaluable networking. These carefully selected programs prepare students for real-world challenges and career growth, making them a gateway to future success.
Okay - Chicago's tech scene is absolutely killing it. With an 18% growth in tech jobs over the last decade, this city is seriously crushing it as one of America's top tech hubs.
The tech ecosystem here employs over 106,000 people, which is like 8% of the entire workforce! That's insane. But it's not just the big dogs like Google and Amazon; new startups and tech roles are popping up across all industries, from healthcare to finance.
So where do internships fit in? Well, they're basically your golden ticket to an inside look at how the tech world really operates.
You'll get hands-on experience working on legit projects, learn the ropes from seasoned pros, and start building those all-important connections. The best part? A whopping 65-70% of interns score job offers from their companies, according to UCATS.
It's like a direct pipeline to scoring your dream gig straight out of college.
But don't just take my word for it; check out what Nancy Perez has to say about getting involved with local tech associations.
They know what's up when it comes to landing those coveted roles, so you might as well tap into their expertise. Who knows, you could end up interning at a place like Motorola Solutions and get a firsthand look at how a major player in the game operates.
Table of Contents
- Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Internships
- 1. Google Internship Program
- 2. Microsoft University Internship
- 3. IBM Extreme Blue Internship
- 4. Facebook Pathways Engineering Internship
- 5. Amazon Future Engineer Internship
- 6. LinkedIn Technical Internship
- 7. Salesforce Futureforce Internship
- 8. Groupon Summer Internship
- 9. Motorola Solutions Internship
- 10. ThoughtWorks Engineering Intern Program
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Methodology for Selecting the Top 10 Internships
(Up)To pick the sickest tech internships in Chi-Town, we went all out. We looked at the big stuff like company rep, dough and benefits, and if they actually teach you legit skills.
But we also kept it real, making sure these gigs give you hands-on experience and a chance to get hired full-time.
We hit up all the major players - career centers, review sites, company deets, the whole nine.
Started with like 50 companies, but then we trimmed it down to the cream of the crop based on program structure, real-world projects, and how much they invest in your growth.
That CEC report said the top ones give you a taste of cutting-edge tech and a dope learning environment.
From there, we ranked 'em using a scoring system that weighed stuff like pay, mentors, and workplace vibes.
We made sure to factor in what current and former interns were saying too. End result? A list of the absolute best tech internships in Chicago, guaranteed to level up your skills and get you prepped for that first gig after graduation.
1. Google Internship Program
(Up)The Google Internship Program is where it's at for anyone trying to get their foot in the door of the tech world.
They've got a large amount of opportunities, from Student Researcher roles to the STEP Internship for first and second-year students.
- Main idea: Google's internships cover a wide array of opportunities.
- Main idea: The internships are available in various locations including Chicago.
- Main idea: Applicants need to bring their A-game with a solid resume and skills to succeed.
No matter what you're into, Google's got you covered with internships in software engineering, business, user experience, and more.
The best part? These gigs are all over the place - you can find 'em in Mountain View, Ann Arbor, Chicago, and a bunch of other cities worldwide. But the application process is no joke.
You'll need to bring your A-game with a solid resume, transcripts, and the skills to back it up. We're talking coding chops in Java, Python, C++, you name it.
And don't even think about slacking on those data structures and algorithms. Google wants to see that you can problem-solve with the best of 'em. If you manage to impress the recruiters, you'll get to experience life at one of the biggest tech companies on the planet.
We're talking cutting-edge projects, mentorship from industry legends, and a taste of that famous Google culture. Just ask David Miller, a former intern - he says it was a "transformative experience" that challenged him and gave him invaluable exposure.
So, if you're a techie looking to level up your game, keep an eye out for Google's internship openings and get ready to hustle.
2. Microsoft University Internship
(Up)Microsoft is killing it with their University Internship program, and if you're looking to level up in tech, this is where it's at.
They're offering a 12-week summer gig that's gonna put you right in the thick of it, working on legit projects with teams cranking out some seriously innovative stuff.
But it's not just about coding all day (although you'll definitely get your hands dirty with that too).
You'll be tackling complex problems, collaborating with different squads, and driving real change. It's like being handed the keys to the kingdom, and they want to see what you can do with them.
Explore Microsoft is a dope program for first- and second-year college students that lets you try out different software engineering roles.
Now, to get in on this action, you gotta bring your A-game.
They're looking for students who are enrolled in a technical or business degree, have mad problem-solving skills, and can code like a boss (think C++, Java, Python, you know the drill).
But it's not just about the technical chops – you gotta be able to communicate effectively and work well with others too.
The application process is no joke.
You'll have to crush the online application, coding challenges, technical interviews, and behavioral assessments. But if you make the cut, the payoff is insane.
Over 80% of interns get full-time job offers after graduation, which just goes to show how much Microsoft values the talent they're cultivating.
As one former intern put it, "The Microsoft University Internship was a game-changer for my career. It provided invaluable hands-on experience and exposed me to the cutting-edge technologies shaping the future." So, if you're ready to level up and get a taste of what it's like to work at one of the biggest tech companies in the world, Microsoft's University Internship is where it's at.
3. IBM Extreme Blue Internship
(Up)Alright, let's talk about the IBM Extreme Blue Internship.
This program is awesome for anyone who wants to level up their tech skills and get a taste of what it's like to work at a major company like IBM. For 12 weeks, you'll be part of a small team tackling real-world challenges faced by IBM or their clients.
You'll get hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies like AI, cloud, mobile, and analytics, all while being mentored by IBM's best and brightest.
But it's not just about the technical side – Extreme Blue is also focused on developing your leadership and business skills.
You'll learn how to think like an entrepreneur, pitch ideas, and work with cross-functional teams. It's a crash course in what it takes to succeed in the tech industry.
And having that kind of experience on your resume is going to make you stand out when it comes to landing your dream job after graduation.
Now, getting into Extreme Blue is no walk in the park.
Only about 2% of applicants are accepted, so you better bring your A-game.
You'll need to have some solid coding skills (think Java, Python, C++, or JavaScript), a knack for problem-solving, and a genuine passion for innovation. The application process includes interviews, technical assessments, and a matching process to find the right team for your skills and interests.
But if you manage to score an Extreme Blue internship, it'll be one of the most valuable experiences of your college career.
You'll get to work on real-world projects, network with industry professionals, and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to succeed in the tech world.
Plus, who knows? You might even end up landing a full-time gig at IBM after graduation. So, if you're serious about breaking into the tech industry, Extreme Blue should definitely be on your radar.
4. Facebook Pathways Engineering Internship
(Up)Check out Meta University - this immersive 10-week paid internship lets college students get a real taste of Meta's culture and work on projects like AI, product design, and software dev.
It's open to first and second-year students in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with a focus on underrepresented groups. To get in, you'll need a resume, transcripts, and for the engineering track, you gotta slay a 70-minute coding challenge.
But it's worth it - you'll learn data engineering, system design, and even develop AI models. There's tracks for analytics and product design too if that's more your vibe.
Just picture building interactive Meta designs or using AI algorithms for data-intensive analysis - pretty cool, right? And who knows, you might end up with a full-time gig after graduation if you crush it.
So if you're looking for an internship that gives you the full Meta experience plus long-term opportunities and sweet benefits, check out their site and get that application in.
This is one opportunity you don't want to miss out on in your career journey.
5. Amazon Future Engineer Internship
(Up)You know what's fire? The Amazon Future Engineer Internship! This legendary program is a dream come true for tech-savvy peeps like us.
Not only do you get to work at one of the biggest tech companies ever, but you also get mad cash - a whopping $40,000 scholarship and a paid internship at Amazon! Talk about a sweet deal.
But it's not just about the money.
This internship is a chance to level up your skills and gain real-world experience working on mind-blowing projects. You could be building the next big thing in e-commerce, cloud computing, or artificial intelligence.
Imagine coding the algorithms that power Alexa or optimizing AWS for lightning-fast performance. It's a techie's paradise!
To get in, you gotta meet some requirements, like being enrolled in a computer science or engineering program and having a solid GPA. But don't stress, they want passionate problem-solvers more than anything.
Just show them your coding chops and your eagerness to learn, and you might just snag one of those coveted spots. Past interns like Charles Taylor have raved about the mentorship, networking opportunities, and the chance to potentially land a full-time gig at Amazon after graduation.
It's a win-win situation!
So, if you're a tech whiz looking to take your skills to the next level, keep an eye out for the Amazon Future Engineer Internship application.
It's an opportunity that could set you up for a successful career in the tech industry. Just don't sleep on it, or you might miss out on this game-changing experience.
6. LinkedIn Technical Internship
(Up)The LinkedIn Technical Internship is the dream opportunity for any tech-savvy youngin' looking to level up their skills! This gig lets you get your hands dirty with some seriously mind-blowing projects alongside the industry's top dogs.
During your internship, you'll be diving deep into all sorts of dope tasks, like:
- Teaming up with different squads to develop fresh features and upgrade existing products
- Code reviews, testing, and debugging to ensure top-notch software quality
- Riding the agile dev wave from ideation to implementation
- Showcasing your work and sharing insights with fellow interns and senior devs
To score the LinkedIn Technical Internship in 2024, you gotta meet these requirements:
- Be currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related tech field
- Slay with programming languages like Java, Python, or C++
- Have that killer problem-solving mindset and a legit passion for tech
- Bring your A-game in communication and team collaboration
The application process involves submitting your resume, transcripts, and a cover letter that shows off your experience and why you're hyped for the internship.
If you make the cut, you'll go through interviews and technical assessments to prove your skills and cultural fit.
"The LinkedIn Technical Internship was a total game-changer for me," said Barbara Moore, a former intern. "I gained invaluable industry exposure, worked on projects that actually mattered, and built connections with some truly brilliant minds."
7. Salesforce Futureforce Internship
(Up)The Salesforce Futureforce Internship is where it's at if you wanna get your hands dirty with some seriously cutting-edge tech.
We're talking about diving head-first into the world of cloud computing, customer relationship management (CRM), and innovative software solutions that are shaking up the game.
As a Futureforce intern, you'll be working alongside the real deal - industry experts who'll show you the ropes and give you a behind-the-scenes look at how the magic happens.
You could be collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and enhance Salesforce applications, conducting in-depth research and data analysis to drive informed decision-making, assisting with the implementation and customization of Salesforce solutions for clients, or contributing to the optimization of existing Salesforce products and services.
This isn't just any ol' internship - it's a chance to gain some serious experience and skills that'll make your resume pop.
To even get your foot in the door, you gotta be a real go-getter. You'll need to be currently enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's degree program in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field, with strong programming skills in languages like Java, C++, or Python.
And let's not forget about those problem-solving and analytical abilities - you gotta be able to think on your feet and come up with some killer solutions.
The application process is no joke - it's a competitive game, but hey, that's what makes it all the more worth it.
Head over to the Salesforce careers website, create a profile, and submit your resume along with a cover letter that'll blow their minds. According to Salesforce's 2024 internship program data, the successful candidates are the ones who really showcase their technical prowess through coding challenges and virtual interviews.
So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and show 'em what you've got!
8. Groupon Summer Internship
(Up)Let's talk about OmniLYF's dope summer internship program. This gig is all about helping students figure out their dream career path through mini two-week internships.
You get to explore up to four professions you're interested in, which is pretty sweet! It's open to high school juniors all the way up to college juniors, so it's perfect for those still trying to decide what they wanna do.
But that's not all – working at Groupon itself sounds like an awesome experience.
They're all about agility, transparent leadership, and merit-based advancement. It's a place where your ideas matter and your impact is felt from day one. They're looking for tech disruptors, salespeople with hustle, and support dynamos to join their mission of revolutionizing how businesses connect with customers.
Speaking of internships, Groupon's own summer program is a prime opportunity to get your foot in the door.
You'll work alongside industry vets, developing cutting-edge tech, solving complex challenges, and contributing to innovative projects that shape the future of digital commerce.
Whether you're into software engineering, data science, product management, or UX/UI design, there's a role for you to explore your passion and gain invaluable experience.
9. Motorola Solutions Internship
(Up)Check this out - the Motorola Solutions Internship is a legit gig for anyone trying to level up their tech game.
These guys are all about critical communications, from two-way radios to body cams and software solutions for public safety. As an intern, you'll get to work on projects that actually matter, while learning from some of the best in the biz.
What can you expect? You'll be tackling real-world challenges, collaborating with teams on software development, testing, and integration projects.
You might be conducting research, analyzing data, or even contributing to product design and feature development. It's a chance to get your hands dirty with cutting-edge tech while gaining invaluable experience in an industry that's always evolving.
But it's not just about the work - Motorola Solutions goes all out to make sure their interns have a blast.
From 'Shark Tank'-style competitions to free housing and river cruises, they know how to show their interns a good time.
Plus, with opportunities to network, develop professionally, and potentially land a full-time gig after graduation, this internship is a solid investment in your future.
To get your foot in the door, you'll need to be enrolled in a Bachelor's or Master's program in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field, with a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Strong coding skills in languages like Java, C++, Python, or JavaScript are a must, along with problem-solving and communication skills that are on point. If that sounds like you, hit up their careers website and get your application in - this internship is definitely worth checking out.
10. ThoughtWorks Engineering Intern Program
(Up)Check this out - ThoughtWorks has a dope internship program for anyone trying to kickstart their tech career.
Whether you're a student or a career-changer, this Interning with Pride opportunity lets you work on real-world projects and learn from industry pros.
As an intern, you'll get hands-on experience with programming languages, Agile methodologies, and badass tech stacks.
But it's not just about coding - you'll also level up your consulting skills and learn how to work with clients. Plus, you'll join a tight-knit community of fellow techies who are all about driving positive change through innovative solutions.
The program is fully remote, so you can grind from anywhere.
ThoughtWorks even covers the cost of the training, so you won't have to worry about racking up debt. Once you crush the internship, they'll likely hire you as a full-time consultant, and you'll be set with a solid salary and benefits package.
To get in, you'll need some coding skills and a passion for tech, but don't stress if you're not a Comp Sci major - coding bootcamps like Nucamp can help you get up to speed.
Just be ready to showcase your problem-solving abilities and teamwork skills during the application process.
So if you're looking to launch your career in tech and gain some invaluable experience along the way, definitely check out the ThoughtWorks Engineering Intern Program.
It's a chance to learn from the best while working on projects that actually make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why is Chicago considered a top tech hub in the US?
Chicago has experienced an 18% growth in tech jobs over the last decade, employing over 106,000 people, which is approximately 8% of the city's workforce. The tech ecosystem in Chicago includes major companies like Google and Amazon as well as numerous startups.
What percentage of tech interns receive job offers from their internship companies?
Between 65-70% of tech interns receive job offers from their companies post-internship, making internships a crucial pathway to securing full-time employment in the tech industry.
How were the top 10 tech internships in Chicago selected?
The top 10 tech internships in Chicago were selected based on program structure, real-world projects, investment in intern growth, and input from career centers, review sites, and current and former interns. Key factors included pay, mentorship, and workplace culture.
What does the Google Internship Program offer?
The Google Internship Program offers a wide range of opportunities in software engineering, business, user experience, and more. It requires a strong resume, transcript, and skills in programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++.
What skills and requirements are common for tech internships in Chicago?
Common requirements for tech internships in Chicago include enrollment in a relevant degree program, strong coding skills (e.g., Java, C++, Python), problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to work collaboratively in teams.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.