Job Description

• Candidates must already live in Chicagoland***

The Equipment Manager & Merchandising Intern will lead the Chicago Union’s team apparel, game-day equipment, and merchandise operations. They will be responsible for managing and transporting team equipment, organizing merchandise inventory, fulfilling Shopify orders, tracking sales trends, and helping design and source new products via Printful or other dropshipping platforms. This person plays a vital role in delivering a smooth, professional, and fun fan experience at every home game. They will report to the General Manager and will also have regular access to Chicago Union ownership, advisory board, and team captains/coaches.
Roles & Responsibilities
Equipment Management
• Transport and organize team equipment and merchandise for all home games
• Maintain accurate inventory of player gear (pinnies, uniforms, cones, first aid, etc.)
• Assist with packing in and out at all home games
• Coordinate equipment needs with captains and coaches

Merchandise Operation
• Organize and maintain merchandise inventory
• Set up and operate the merchandise booth at all home games
• Pack and fulfill Shopify orders promptly and professionally
• Track online and in-person sales and manage product restocking

Creative & Product Development
• Assist with product design using Canva, Adobe, or Printful’s native tools
• Identify sales trends and suggest new product styles and ideas
• Help test new items through print-on-demand platforms or short-run ordering
• Collaborate with digital marketing interns and Gameday Manager on promotions and signage

Customer Service
• Provide on-site assistance and merchandise support to fans at games
• Respond to any order questions and help maintain positive customer experiences
• Offer input on merchandising displays and fan engagement strategies

Administration
• Maintain detailed inventory records and report sales trends to the General Manager
• Work within budget guidelines to source and order merchandise
• Coordinate with Union staff for promotions and print needs (banners, signage, flyers)

Based On Annual Schedule
• Season (May - August): All home games, most merchandise work, high engagement with fans
• Offseason (September - December): Order planning, creative design work, Shopify fulfillment
• Preseason (January - April): Inventory audit, print-on-demand product testing, gameday prep

Details
• Primarily Work from Home
• Must reside in Chicagoland
• Greatest workload during the Season (May–July)
• Flexible weekly schedule based on team events
• In-person presence required at all home games (May–July)
• Some light travel around Evanston or Chicago for errands or pickups
• Ample storage space preferred for equipment and merchandise

Compensation
This is an unpaid internship position and can fulfill course credit. Weekly hours will vary depending on the season and team schedule and can be adjusted around class commitments. Team merchandise and travel reimbursement provided.
Education
• Major in Sports Management, Marketing, Design, Entrepreneurship, or related fields preferred
• Undergraduate or graduate students welcome

Experience
Preferred
• Retail or event operations
• Shopify, Printful, or e-commerce experience
• Experience working in sports or game-day environments

Skills
Required
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Verbal and written communication
• Familiarity with spreadsheets and online tools
• Reliable transportation year-round
• Ability to lift and transport boxes (up to 40 lbs)
• Willingness to work outdoors at games

Preferred
• E-commerce (Shopify, Printful)
• Graphic Design (Canva, Adobe Illustrator)
• Inventory Management
• Social Media & Promotions
• Photography or videography

Personal Characteristics
• Reliable and Accountable
• Friendly and Hospitality-Focused
• Detail-Oriented and Organized
• Creative and Entrepreneurial
• Curious and Willing to Learn
• Energetic and Enthusiastic

Job Types: Part-time, Internship
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Evanston, IL 60208

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