Team Operations Intern - Spring 2027

Spring Semester Internship (Unpaid) — Pawtucket, Rhode Island. Anticipated start January 2027 for the Spring 2027 academic semester; approximately 15–20 hours per week coordinated with academic credit requirements. Academic credit required. Reports to the Vice President of Football Affairs / Assistant General Manager with day‑to‑day supervision by the Director of Team Operations.

About the role

Rhode Island FC (RIFC) is a professional soccer club competing in the USL Championship, playing at Centreville Bank Stadium in Pawtucket. The club is committed to building a competitive team and creating a positive experience for players, staff, and supporters.

RIFC is seeking Team Operations Interns for the Spring 2027 semester. The internship provides practical, supervised experience in the day‑to‑day operations of a professional soccer team and exposure to multiple areas of a professional sports organization. Interns work closely with Equipment, the Technical Staff, and other club departments. The program is designed to deliver meaningful professional experience through hands‑on learning, exposure to different aspects of club operations, and regular feedback on individual performance and development. Successful candidates will be organized, dependable, detail‑oriented, willing to take initiative, and interested in learning about the operations of a professional soccer club.

Professional Development

• Gain hands‑on experience in team administration, travel, player support, equipment, training, and matchday operations.
• Work directly with the VP of Football Affairs / Assistant General Manager and the Director of Team Operations, and collaborate with other members of the club’s technical and administrative staffs.
• Gain exposure to other areas of the organization based on individual interests, academic requirements, and available opportunities.
• Participate in projects and assignments designed to develop organizational, communication, problem‑solving, and professional skills.
• Establish individual learning objectives and professional development goals at the beginning of the internship.
• Receive regular feedback on performance, professional development, and areas for improvement.
• Receive written evaluations and academic feedback as required by their college or university.
• Develop a broader understanding of the responsibilities involved in operating a professional soccer club.

Responsibilities

Team Operations and Administration

• Assist with daily administrative and operational responsibilities supporting the players and technical staff.
• Help coordinate training schedules, team activities, and other operational needs.
• Assist with preparing and maintaining team documents, schedules, and communications.
• Support the organization and preparation of training facilities and team spaces.
• Complete assigned projects in a timely and professional manner.

Team Travel and Logistics

• Assist with team travel planning, including transportation, accommodations, meals, and itineraries.
• Support player and trialist transportation when needed, using club vehicles and subject to the club’s insurance and driving requirements.
• Assist with preseason camps, scrimmages, home matches, and other team activities.
• Help coordinate logistical arrangements for incoming and departing players.
• Work with the Director of Team Operations on travel and matchday preparations.

Training and Matchday Support

• Assist with daily training preparation, including equipment, hydration, and field setup.
• Work with the Equipment Manager on training and matchday preparations.
• Assist with locker room setup and organization for home matches.
• Help coordinate player meals and other daily team needs.
• Support matchday operations and other activities as assigned.

Player and Staff Support

• Provide general logistical and administrative support to players and technical staff.
• Assist with player onboarding and other team‑related needs.
• Maintain professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality when working with players and staff (interns sign a confidentiality agreement at onboarding).
• Communicate clearly and professionally with club personnel.

Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a college or university program and eligible to receive academic credit for the internship.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Dependable, punctual, and willing to take initiative.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and other relevant technology.
• Interest in professional soccer and sports operations.
• Previous experience in athletics, team management, or sports operations preferred but not required.
• Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish preferred.
• A valid driver’s license and the ability to meet the club’s driving and insurance requirements are required for any driving responsibilities.

Schedule

This is an unpaid internship for the Spring 2027 academic semester. Completion of the internship does not guarantee employment with the club. The schedule will be established in coordination with each student’s academic commitments and learning objectives. Opportunities may include training sessions, preseason activities, home matches, and other team events. Some evening, weekend, and holiday opportunities may be available depending on the club’s schedule and the student’s availability. The club covers travel‑related expenses for any club activities that require interns to travel. Interns are expected to demonstrate professionalism, reliability, initiative, and a willingness to learn. Interns will participate in regular check‑ins and performance discussions with their supervisor. Academic requirements and evaluation expectations will be reviewed at the beginning of the internship.

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift and move team equipment, walk, bend, stand, and participate in activities throughout the workday, with or without reasonable accommodation.