Finance and People Operations Intern

Finance and People Operations Summer Internship

Location: Chicago, IL (in-office)
Schedule: 20–40 hours per week (Summer Internship)

Duration: 90 days

About PSM Partners

At PSM, we believe that strong businesses are built by people who take ownership, push for excellence, and invest in meaningful relationships. Our team operates with a shared commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for our clients while supporting one another internally.

Our core values are not just words—they guide how we work every day:

• Own It – Take responsibility and follow through
• Driven to Win – Deliver quality with energy and urgency
• Relationships Matter – Build trust through collaboration and respect
• Everyone Contributes – Step in, support the team, and make an impact

This internship is designed to give hands-on exposure across Accounting/Finance (primary focus) and Human Resources/Administrative Operations, offering a well-rounded understanding of how core business functions operate and support growth.

Position Overview

The Administrative Services Summer Intern will support both the Accounting and Human Resources teams, with approximately 2/3–3/4 of time dedicated to Finance and Accounting operations.

This role is ideal for a detail-oriented, proactive individual interested in building foundational experience in business operations, finance processes, and people operations.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting & Finance (Primary Focus)

Support day-to-day financial operations and reporting activities, including:

• Assist with accounts payable and receivable processing, including:
  • Entering invoices and payment data into accounting systems
  • Tracking incoming payments and resolving discrepancies (e.g., duplicate or overpayments)
  • Preparing and maintaining records for daily transactions
• Support vendor and client coordination, including:
  • Communicating regarding invoice accuracy and payment confirmations
  • Requesting and maintaining required documentation for financial records
• Assist with cash application and banking activity, including:
  • Logging payment details and maintaining audit-ready documentation
  • Supporting reconciliation activities and tracking outstanding balances
• Contribute to benefits and payroll-related accounting support, including:
  • Assisting with tracking employee-related deductions and benefit costs
  • Supporting data compilation for annual planning and reporting
• Perform administrative accounting tasks, such as:
  • Maintaining organized financial records and documentation
  • Supporting ad hoc reporting and special projects
  • Assisting with compliance-related documentation and file management

Human Resources & Administrative Support (Secondary Focus)

Facilities & Office Operations

• Maintain shared office spaces (kitchen, conference rooms, and common areas) to ensure a clean and organized environment
• Monitor and restock office and kitchen supplies
• Support general office readiness and organization

Human Resources Support

• Assist with onboarding coordination, including preparation of new hire communications and tracking onboarding progress
• Support internal communications such as company announcements, employee recognition posts, and engagement updates
• Assist with maintaining HR records and data accuracy in internal systems (confidentiality required)

Administrative Support

• Coordinate logistics for internal events, including scheduling, communication, and materials preparation
• Assist with document preparation, printing, and assembly
• Support ordering and inventory management of office supplies

Project-Based Work

• Assist with data organization and record maintenance projects to improve accuracy and accessibility
• Support departmental organization initiatives and workspace improvements
• Contribute to process improvement efforts that enhance team efficiency

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-on experience in core accounting and HR operations within a professional services environment
• Exposure to real-world business processes, including finance workflows, compliance practices, and employee lifecycle management
• Opportunity to work directly with experienced professionals across multiple functions
• A strong foundation in operational discipline, accountability, and business communication

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, Human Resources, or related field
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively
• Professional communication skills (written and verbal)
• Comfortable working with data, spreadsheets, and administrative systems
• Demonstrates initiative and a willingness to take ownership of assigned work

Why This Role Matters

This role plays an important part in enabling both our Accounting and HR teams to operate efficiently. By supporting core processes and administrative work, the intern helps free up capacity for strategic initiatives while ensuring day-to-day operations run smoothly.