Job Overview
Employment Type
Internship
Part-time
Compensation
Hourly
Range $12.50 - $16.50
Work Schedule
Flexible
Day Shifts
Weekend Shifts
Benefits
flexible schedule
Ability to cross-train and learn unique skills across various departments
Free admission to Adventureland and select parks on days off
Invitations to exclusive company-sponsored host events throughout the season
Job Description
Herschend Family Entertainment, founded 75 years ago, is the largest family-held themed attractions company in the United States. With roots deeply embedded in the discovery and sharing of wonder within the Ozark Mountains, the company operates 49 leading attractions and immersive experiences that captivate audiences worldwide. Herschend's portfolio spans a variety of themed entertainment venues, including amusement parks, waterparks, and cultural attractions, all united by a central mission: Bringing Families Closer Together by Creating Memories Worth Repeating. This mission is brought to life every day by passionate hosts through acts of love and service—a unique concept known within the company as Heartspitality, where heart meets hospitality.
Established as an equal-opportunity employer, Herschend fosters inclusive environments where every host, guest, and partner is welcomed, valued, and respected. Their commitment to equitable treatment underscores the company culture and aligns with their value of meaningful communication and actions.
Adventureland Park, one of the prominent amusement parks under the Herschend umbrella, is currently seeking a Food & Beverage Intern specializing in Special Events. This internship offers an exceptional opportunity for students or recent graduates aspiring to gain hands-on operational, leadership, and customer service experience in a dynamic, fast-paced amusement park setting. The role is uniquely tailored for individuals pursuing academic or career paths in Supply Chain, Hospitality, Marketing, Business Management, Event Management, or related fields.
The Food & Beverage Intern will play a critical role in supporting department managers with all facets of food and beverage operations, including special event planning and execution. Through this internship, the successful candidate will cultivate essential leadership, communication, and business management skills via extensive interaction and mentorship from department heads, supervisors, front-line hosts, and guests. This position requires quick learning and adaptability, as interns will develop the competence and confidence necessary to oversee the entire Food & Beverage department during their tenure.
Interns will be responsible for supervising daily operations of Food & Beverage special events teams, serving as role models and mentors, and becoming proficient in multiple Food & Beverage positions to fill in as needed. They will engage in staff hiring, orientation, training, performance coaching, scheduling, compliance with labor laws, and handling guest concerns with professionalism and positivity.
Additional responsibilities include leading special projects aimed at process improvement, coordinating with multiple departments to plan cohesive events such as concerts and seasonal festivals, assisting in food preparation and sales during peak times, collaborating with Culinary and Marketing teams on marketing efforts, and supporting inventory management and product development. Interns will also ensure regulatory compliance including food safety practices and labor department regulations.
This role demands flexibility with schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and late hours during special events. The successful candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills, a professional demeanor, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with Point of Sale (POS) systems is preferred.
Adventureland offers an empowering work environment where interns and team members alike enjoy the thrill of contributing to guest satisfaction and team success. The company promotes growth through a positive, engaging atmosphere enriched with opportunities for cross-training and unique skill development. Employment at Adventureland is not only a chance to earn and learn but also to take part in community-building activities and exclusive company events.
This internship is an excellent stepping stone for ambitious individuals aiming to build a career in themed entertainment, hospitality, or event management, providing a blend of practical experience, personal growth, and professional development within a supportive and vibrant setting.
Established as an equal-opportunity employer, Herschend fosters inclusive environments where every host, guest, and partner is welcomed, valued, and respected. Their commitment to equitable treatment underscores the company culture and aligns with their value of meaningful communication and actions.
Adventureland Park, one of the prominent amusement parks under the Herschend umbrella, is currently seeking a Food & Beverage Intern specializing in Special Events. This internship offers an exceptional opportunity for students or recent graduates aspiring to gain hands-on operational, leadership, and customer service experience in a dynamic, fast-paced amusement park setting. The role is uniquely tailored for individuals pursuing academic or career paths in Supply Chain, Hospitality, Marketing, Business Management, Event Management, or related fields.
The Food & Beverage Intern will play a critical role in supporting department managers with all facets of food and beverage operations, including special event planning and execution. Through this internship, the successful candidate will cultivate essential leadership, communication, and business management skills via extensive interaction and mentorship from department heads, supervisors, front-line hosts, and guests. This position requires quick learning and adaptability, as interns will develop the competence and confidence necessary to oversee the entire Food & Beverage department during their tenure.
Interns will be responsible for supervising daily operations of Food & Beverage special events teams, serving as role models and mentors, and becoming proficient in multiple Food & Beverage positions to fill in as needed. They will engage in staff hiring, orientation, training, performance coaching, scheduling, compliance with labor laws, and handling guest concerns with professionalism and positivity.
Additional responsibilities include leading special projects aimed at process improvement, coordinating with multiple departments to plan cohesive events such as concerts and seasonal festivals, assisting in food preparation and sales during peak times, collaborating with Culinary and Marketing teams on marketing efforts, and supporting inventory management and product development. Interns will also ensure regulatory compliance including food safety practices and labor department regulations.
This role demands flexibility with schedules including evenings, weekends, holidays, and late hours during special events. The successful candidate must possess strong problem-solving skills, a professional demeanor, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and familiarity with Point of Sale (POS) systems is preferred.
Adventureland offers an empowering work environment where interns and team members alike enjoy the thrill of contributing to guest satisfaction and team success. The company promotes growth through a positive, engaging atmosphere enriched with opportunities for cross-training and unique skill development. Employment at Adventureland is not only a chance to earn and learn but also to take part in community-building activities and exclusive company events.
This internship is an excellent stepping stone for ambitious individuals aiming to build a career in themed entertainment, hospitality, or event management, providing a blend of practical experience, personal growth, and professional development within a supportive and vibrant setting.
Job Requirements
- Must be at least 18 years of age to comply with Iowa Child Labor Laws
- Ability to work flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, open to close
- Ability to work later evening hours during certain events
- Must possess a valid driver’s license and a good driving record
- Ability to lead and motivate assigned teams of hosts
- Must be able to roll-up sleeves and assist with all Food & Beverage-related positions to ensure continuous and successful operation
- Must possess exceptional customer service skills, with an ability to resolve questions, problems, issues, and concerns in a positive and professional manner
- Must remain focused on compliance with all state and local Food & Beverage safety regulations
- Ability to handle high-pressure situations, meet the demands of constant deadlines and coordinate multiple priorities in a dynamic environment
- Ability to portray a positive, professional attitude at all times
- Ability to follow direction, multi-task, and work as part of a team as well as independently
- Must possess strong written and verbal communication skills
- Must possess strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
- Must be proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
- Practical knowledge of Point of Sale (POS) technology and PCI compliance is preferred
Job Qualifications
- Recent graduate or at least 2 years undergraduate study in Supply Chain, Hospitality, Marketing, Business Management, Event Management, or related major
- 1+ years of previous work experience, preferably in event, guest experience, or hospitality-related role
- Previous amusement park, theme park, or waterpark experience highly desired
- Ability to read, write, and speak fluent English
- Spanish or other bilingual language skills are a plus
- Must become Food Handler Safety Certified (ServSafe or similar) or become so within 90 days of hire when required by state and local guidelines
Job Duties
- Supervise the daily operations of the Food & Beverage special events team and any other assigned departments
- Lead by example, attitude, and as a representation of Adventureland’s core values
- Act as an approachable mentor and coach to all assigned hosts
- Become knowledgeable of performing the essential duties of all assigned Food & Beverage positions and backfill these positions when needed
- Participate in all aspects of supervision of assigned hosts, including hiring, orientation, training, performance coaching, and discipline
- Ensure that all required meal and other breaks are given in accordance with Iowa law
- Assist with team scheduling and timekeeping activities
- Learn and lead operations of one or more Food & Beverage areas and demonstrate leadership to ensure successful operations
- Lead and complete special projects to improve process and operational efficiencies
- Plan and execute special events such as concerts, Oktoberfest, Phantom Fall Fest
- Participate in all aspects of food preparation and sales during peak times
- Assist in the planning and execution of numerous special events and offerings throughout the summer
- Work with multiple departments to create cohesive plans for events
- Work directly with Food & Beverage leadership in the planning, execution, and documentation of daily operations
- Collaborate with Culinary and Marketing teams to produce marketing materials
- Assist with development of new and exciting menu items and events
- Assist with product ordering, stocking, rotation, and maintenance of inventory levels
- Coordinate support and service for bands during concert events
- Identify new opportunities for improving sales, marketing, and operating efficiency
- Ensure regulatory compliance and process enforcement, including Labor Department regulations and maintaining all food safety practices
- Handle and resolve escalated guest concerns and criticisms with a positive attitude to deescalate
- Participate in social activities with international college students
- All other duties as assigned by leadership
Job Criteria
Experience
Entry Level (1-2 years)
Job Location
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