Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Recreation Activities Internship
Kiawah Island Golf Resort, Columbia, South Carolina, us, 29228
RECREATION INTERNSHIP PROGRAM
Kiawah Island Golf Resort's Recreation Department sets itself apart from other resorts by providing southern hospitality and exceptional customer service to every vacationing guest. Our Recreation Internship Program is an experience that is fun, unique, educational and memorable for every intern that is selected. It is a program where interns will succeed when challenged and an experience that will be a stepping stone into their future. To find out more about our programs, events and department visit www.kiawahrecreation.com.
INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Current Junior or Senior at a recognized University Majoring in Tourism or Hotel Management, Recreation, Leisure Services or a related field Previous experience in a recreation setting Experience in providing customer service First Aid and CPR certified before the first day of employment Preference is given to Resort and Commercial Recreation Association (RCRA) members FOR CONSIDERATION PLEASE SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING
Cover letter summarizing past experiences, future goals and preferred internship session Resume 2 work related references with phone numbers 1 school related reference with phone number Complete an online application at www.kiawahcareers.com Documents can be e-mailed or mailed to:
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Maggie Kwolek
1 Sanctuary Beach Drive
Kiawah Island, SC 29455
(843) 768-6001
Maggie_kwolek@kiawahresort.com
2025-2026 INTERNSHIP SESSIONS
Fall/Winter: September 16th-January 3rd; 1-2 intern selected
Spring: January 20- May 9th; 2-3 interns selected
Summer: May 12th-Sept. 1st; 5 interns selected
Holiday work is mandatory ; requesting time off during an internship session must be discussed during the hiring process.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary responsibility of a recreation intern is to accomplish personal and professional goals, along with providing superior customer service to guests. Interns will maximize their educational background with hands on experience and unique, once in a lifetime opportunities. All key areas of the recreation department will be explored to better understand the fundamentals of how a large recreation department is run. All tasks performed by interns will follow and maintain Kiawah Island Golf Resort's standards and core values. The average workweek is 40-55 hours, including weekend work.
Orientation Week:
A week designed to introduce interns to all segments of their internship, Kiawah Island Golf Resort and the island. This week consists of the following:
Walking/driving tour of the entire island Kiawah Island Golf Resort orientation focusing on resort standards, resort facilities and organizational structure Recreation teambuilding activities to get to know co-workers, supervisors, and managers Introduction of intern expectations, responsibilities and assignments Group, Teen and Family Programs:
Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers many unique group, teen and family programs throughout the week. These programs include corporate team building events, teen nights, family crafts, poolside games, and family festivals, among others. Below are some of the main tasks interns are responsible for:
Plan, organize, and facilitate programs expecting anywhere from 50 - 600 guests Communicate with other resort departments, such as banquets and maintenance, to ensure the event runs smoothly Be a contact person for bands and other vendors Fully understand and become comfortable supervising all group, teen and family events within the recreation department Kiawah Camps:
Camp Kiawah is a program for kids 3-7 years old. Kamp Kiawah is a place where children come to make friends and memories of their own. Kamp Kiawah is a
large
part of the internship program. Adventure Camp and Camp Xtreme is for kids 8-14 years old, the interns will have an opportunity to participate in as well. As interns you will have the following Kamp Kiawah responsibilities:
Work with supervisors in developing new activities, games and themes Be a main supervisor and counselor for Campers Facilitate programs for over seventy kids and ensure the day remains Structured
Create a unique, safe, and enjoyable experience for all Campers Assist with the training of camp counselors Turtles Nest Art Studio : TNAS is our indoor recreation area for guests to explore their artistic side while taking shelter from the heat or the rain. It is a unique facility appreciated and revisited by many guests. Interns will have the opportunity to:
Teach art classes and workshops Supervise open studios while interacting with guests of all ages Learn about painting techniques, pottery & glass artwork and how to use a kiln Work towards developing new programs and projects for future use Office Operations: Upon completion of their internship, interns will understand and succeed with the following behind the scenes operations of our recreation department:
Computer reservation software and Charging system for guests payments Ordering supplies Complete program recaps Holiday and Special Events: During each internship session, a holiday or special event on the island takes place. Interns are very involved in the creating, planning, and implementation of these events. Each intern will be given the chance to supervise a major event during these holidays.
Fall/Winter-
Triathlon ,
Thanksgiving Week, Marathon, New Year's Week Spring
- Easter Week Summer
- Swim Across America, 4th of July Week Essential Physical Requirements:
Interns must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs., work consecutive hours in extreme heat and humidity without sitting. Able to move and operate all equipment necessary to facilitate programs and events. Must be comfortable swimming with children.
SPECIAL PROJECTS/MEETINGS
Major Project and Assignments : As an intern you will be in charge of multiple events during our 4th of July celebrations. These events are planned almost entirely by the interns with some help from the supervisors and manager. Interns will also serve as a supervisor for 2 weeks. One week focusing on Kamp Kiawah, the other on Group, Teen and Family events. Interns will also be assigned monthly tasks that will be covered in more detail during the orientation process. The interns are also responsible for bi-weekly reports throughout the summer that will be discussed in the bi-weekly meetings
Meetings:
Interns are required to meet with their managers on a bi-weekly basis. These meetings are used for evaluation and problem solving. Participation during all meetings is mandatory.
Job Shadowing:
Interns have the opportunity to meet several department managers and directors during their internship. Departments such as Food & Beverage, Sales & Marketing, Human Resources, Nature Program, Conference Services, Front Desk, Property Management, Tennis and Golf. Interns are encouraged to set up job shadowing appointments on their own for exposure to other areas of Kiawah Island Golf Resort if interested.
Babysitting:
Interns are able to earn extra money by babysitting for guests on the island. Babysitting rates start at $20-40 per hour.
Compensation/MEALS/UNIFORMS/HOUSING
Compensation:
$12 an hour
Gratuity is an option when working camps and you will receive service charges for private and corporate events. When working these events, tips are split evenly between the staff working.
Meals:
Employee meal tickets may be purchased for $3.00 and used at participating resort outlets. While working Kamp Kiawah, meals and snacks are provided if they are eaten with the campers.
Uniforms:
Uniform shirts * Khaki shorts/pants, Bathing suit/ swim trunks Tennis shoes or sandals with a back strap * Items that are provided
Appearance:
Hair must be a natural color and conservatively cut. Hats may be worn if it has the Kiawah Island Golf Resort logo KIAWAH ISLAND GOLF RESORT IS A DRUG FREE WORK PLACE
Housing:
Kiawah Island Golf Resort may offer dorm-style housing for seasonal employees on a first come, first served basis, subject to availability. Cost ranges from $290 - $350 per paycheck, payroll deducted. Employee housing is located approximately 20 miles from the island which is about a 35-45 minute drive. Because of this Camp Counselors must have their own form of transportation, even though carpooling with other Camp Counselors and co-workers is encouraged. Camp Counselors are assigned 3 or 5 other roommates at the discretion of Human Resources. Apartments are furnished which includes living room and bedroom furniture, kitchen appliances a television and a twin-size bed for each resident. For any questions regarding housing, please reach out to Human Resources.
** A housing deposit of $300 is required to secure a spot in housing.
**The cost of housing is subject to change
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, or efforts associated with this position.
All offers of employment at Kiawah Island Golf Resort are contingent upon the results of a thorough background check. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates.
This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" employment relationship. Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or due to pregnancy.
We truly appreciate your interest in Kiawah Island Golf Resort. If you have any questions regarding employment at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, please reach out to Jobs@KiawahResort.com.
Kiawah Island Golf Resort's Recreation Department sets itself apart from other resorts by providing southern hospitality and exceptional customer service to every vacationing guest. Our Recreation Internship Program is an experience that is fun, unique, educational and memorable for every intern that is selected. It is a program where interns will succeed when challenged and an experience that will be a stepping stone into their future. To find out more about our programs, events and department visit www.kiawahrecreation.com.
INTERNSHIP REQUIREMENTS
Current Junior or Senior at a recognized University Majoring in Tourism or Hotel Management, Recreation, Leisure Services or a related field Previous experience in a recreation setting Experience in providing customer service First Aid and CPR certified before the first day of employment Preference is given to Resort and Commercial Recreation Association (RCRA) members FOR CONSIDERATION PLEASE SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING
Cover letter summarizing past experiences, future goals and preferred internship session Resume 2 work related references with phone numbers 1 school related reference with phone number Complete an online application at www.kiawahcareers.com Documents can be e-mailed or mailed to:
Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Maggie Kwolek
1 Sanctuary Beach Drive
Kiawah Island, SC 29455
(843) 768-6001
Maggie_kwolek@kiawahresort.com
2025-2026 INTERNSHIP SESSIONS
Fall/Winter: September 16th-January 3rd; 1-2 intern selected
Spring: January 20- May 9th; 2-3 interns selected
Summer: May 12th-Sept. 1st; 5 interns selected
Holiday work is mandatory ; requesting time off during an internship session must be discussed during the hiring process.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The primary responsibility of a recreation intern is to accomplish personal and professional goals, along with providing superior customer service to guests. Interns will maximize their educational background with hands on experience and unique, once in a lifetime opportunities. All key areas of the recreation department will be explored to better understand the fundamentals of how a large recreation department is run. All tasks performed by interns will follow and maintain Kiawah Island Golf Resort's standards and core values. The average workweek is 40-55 hours, including weekend work.
Orientation Week:
A week designed to introduce interns to all segments of their internship, Kiawah Island Golf Resort and the island. This week consists of the following:
Walking/driving tour of the entire island Kiawah Island Golf Resort orientation focusing on resort standards, resort facilities and organizational structure Recreation teambuilding activities to get to know co-workers, supervisors, and managers Introduction of intern expectations, responsibilities and assignments Group, Teen and Family Programs:
Kiawah Island Golf Resort offers many unique group, teen and family programs throughout the week. These programs include corporate team building events, teen nights, family crafts, poolside games, and family festivals, among others. Below are some of the main tasks interns are responsible for:
Plan, organize, and facilitate programs expecting anywhere from 50 - 600 guests Communicate with other resort departments, such as banquets and maintenance, to ensure the event runs smoothly Be a contact person for bands and other vendors Fully understand and become comfortable supervising all group, teen and family events within the recreation department Kiawah Camps:
Camp Kiawah is a program for kids 3-7 years old. Kamp Kiawah is a place where children come to make friends and memories of their own. Kamp Kiawah is a
large
part of the internship program. Adventure Camp and Camp Xtreme is for kids 8-14 years old, the interns will have an opportunity to participate in as well. As interns you will have the following Kamp Kiawah responsibilities:
Work with supervisors in developing new activities, games and themes Be a main supervisor and counselor for Campers Facilitate programs for over seventy kids and ensure the day remains Structured
Create a unique, safe, and enjoyable experience for all Campers Assist with the training of camp counselors Turtles Nest Art Studio : TNAS is our indoor recreation area for guests to explore their artistic side while taking shelter from the heat or the rain. It is a unique facility appreciated and revisited by many guests. Interns will have the opportunity to:
Teach art classes and workshops Supervise open studios while interacting with guests of all ages Learn about painting techniques, pottery & glass artwork and how to use a kiln Work towards developing new programs and projects for future use Office Operations: Upon completion of their internship, interns will understand and succeed with the following behind the scenes operations of our recreation department:
Computer reservation software and Charging system for guests payments Ordering supplies Complete program recaps Holiday and Special Events: During each internship session, a holiday or special event on the island takes place. Interns are very involved in the creating, planning, and implementation of these events. Each intern will be given the chance to supervise a major event during these holidays.
Fall/Winter-
Triathlon ,
Thanksgiving Week, Marathon, New Year's Week Spring
- Easter Week Summer
- Swim Across America, 4th of July Week Essential Physical Requirements:
Interns must be able to lift a minimum of 50 lbs., work consecutive hours in extreme heat and humidity without sitting. Able to move and operate all equipment necessary to facilitate programs and events. Must be comfortable swimming with children.
SPECIAL PROJECTS/MEETINGS
Major Project and Assignments : As an intern you will be in charge of multiple events during our 4th of July celebrations. These events are planned almost entirely by the interns with some help from the supervisors and manager. Interns will also serve as a supervisor for 2 weeks. One week focusing on Kamp Kiawah, the other on Group, Teen and Family events. Interns will also be assigned monthly tasks that will be covered in more detail during the orientation process. The interns are also responsible for bi-weekly reports throughout the summer that will be discussed in the bi-weekly meetings
Meetings:
Interns are required to meet with their managers on a bi-weekly basis. These meetings are used for evaluation and problem solving. Participation during all meetings is mandatory.
Job Shadowing:
Interns have the opportunity to meet several department managers and directors during their internship. Departments such as Food & Beverage, Sales & Marketing, Human Resources, Nature Program, Conference Services, Front Desk, Property Management, Tennis and Golf. Interns are encouraged to set up job shadowing appointments on their own for exposure to other areas of Kiawah Island Golf Resort if interested.
Babysitting:
Interns are able to earn extra money by babysitting for guests on the island. Babysitting rates start at $20-40 per hour.
Compensation/MEALS/UNIFORMS/HOUSING
Compensation:
$12 an hour
Gratuity is an option when working camps and you will receive service charges for private and corporate events. When working these events, tips are split evenly between the staff working.
Meals:
Employee meal tickets may be purchased for $3.00 and used at participating resort outlets. While working Kamp Kiawah, meals and snacks are provided if they are eaten with the campers.
Uniforms:
Uniform shirts * Khaki shorts/pants, Bathing suit/ swim trunks Tennis shoes or sandals with a back strap * Items that are provided
Appearance:
Hair must be a natural color and conservatively cut. Hats may be worn if it has the Kiawah Island Golf Resort logo KIAWAH ISLAND GOLF RESORT IS A DRUG FREE WORK PLACE
Housing:
Kiawah Island Golf Resort may offer dorm-style housing for seasonal employees on a first come, first served basis, subject to availability. Cost ranges from $290 - $350 per paycheck, payroll deducted. Employee housing is located approximately 20 miles from the island which is about a 35-45 minute drive. Because of this Camp Counselors must have their own form of transportation, even though carpooling with other Camp Counselors and co-workers is encouraged. Camp Counselors are assigned 3 or 5 other roommates at the discretion of Human Resources. Apartments are furnished which includes living room and bedroom furniture, kitchen appliances a television and a twin-size bed for each resident. For any questions regarding housing, please reach out to Human Resources.
** A housing deposit of $300 is required to secure a spot in housing.
**The cost of housing is subject to change
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, or efforts associated with this position.
All offers of employment at Kiawah Island Golf Resort are contingent upon the results of a thorough background check. Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates.
This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an "at will" employment relationship. Kiawah Island Golf Resort is an equal opportunity at will employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of age, race, religion, color, disability, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, or due to pregnancy.
We truly appreciate your interest in Kiawah Island Golf Resort. If you have any questions regarding employment at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, please reach out to Jobs@KiawahResort.com.