Student Intern

If you are unable to complete this application due to a disability, contact this employer to ask for an accommodation or an alternative application process. Student Intern Town Hall, Forest Heights, MD, US 7 days ago Requisition ID: 1023 POSITION SUMMARY The Town of Forest Heights is seeking motivated, dependable, and career-oriented students to participate in the (paid) Forest Heights Student Internship Program. This internship provides students with meaningful, hands‑on experience in municipal government while supporting their academic, professional, and personal development. Interns will gain practical experience working alongside Town professionals in a collaborative environment while learning about local government operations, public administration, customer service, community engagement, and workplace professionalism. This program is designed to help students develop transferable skills that prepare them for future careers in government, business, nonprofit organizations, and other professional fields. PROGRAM PURPOSE The Forest Heights Student Internship Program introduces students to the principles of public service, civic leadership, and municipal government through direct participation in the daily operations of Town government. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Under the supervision of designated Town staff, interns may be assigned a variety of duties, including but not limited to: Assisting with administrative and office support functions. Preparing correspondence, reports, presentations, and meeting materials. Filing, organizing, scanning, and maintaining records. Entering and verifying data using computer software. Greeting residents and visitors and assisting with customer service inquiries. Answering and directing telephone calls. Assisting with Town events, public meetings, and community outreach activities. Conducting internet and policy research. Assisting staff with special projects and operational initiatives. Preparing newsletters, flyers, social media content, and public information materials. Attending departmental meetings and observing municipal operations. Performing other duties as assigned that contribute to the student's educational experience. LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES Throughout the internship, participants will gain exposure to: Municipal government operations Public administration Office administration Research and policy development Professional communication Project coordination Team collaboration Time management Workplace ethics and professionalism Interns will also receive exposure to common office technologies, including Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, digital filing systems, virtual meeting platforms, and other municipal software applications. MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS Applicants must: Be between 16 and 19 years of age. Currently enrolled in a high school or trade school, or have recently graduated within the past twelve (12) months. Possess strong written and verbal communication skills. Demonstrate professionalism, reliability, and a willingness to learn. Be able to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment. Have computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Office applications. Familiar with social media platforms, as well as photo and video editing application experience. Be legally authorized to work in the United States. PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS Preference may be given to applicants who have demonstrated: Sound judgment and good moral character. Academic achievement Interest in government, public administration, public policy, communications, finance, information technology, public works, law enforcement, engineering, or community development. PROGRAM STRUCTURE The internship is organized into four developmental phases: Phase I – Orientation and Training Interns will participate in onboarding, workplace orientation, policy review, departmental introductions, and initial job shadowing opportunities. Phase II – Guided Learning Interns will complete supervised assignments while participating in meetings, projects, and community engagement activities designed to build confidence and workplace competence. Phase III – Applied Experience As interns demonstrate proficiency, they will assume greater responsibility by independently completing routine assignments and assisting with special projects and departmental initiatives. Phase IV – Evaluation and Completion At the conclusion of the internship, interns will receive a performance evaluation, supervisory feedback, and career development guidance. Participants who successfully complete the program may receive a Certificate of Completion and, when appropriate, a letter of recommendation. WORK ENVIRONMENT Interns will primarily work in a professional office environment with occasional assignments outdoors during community events, public meetings, or Town-sponsored activities. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the internship. HOW TO APPLY Interested applicants should submit the following: Completed Town Internship Application online Resume Personal Statement (250–500 words describing career interests and reasons for applying) At least one character reference (school or neighborhood) SELECTION PROCESS Applications will be reviewed to determine minimum qualifications. Selected applicants will be invited to participate in structured interviews conducted by Town staff. Final selections will be based on academic achievement, leadership potential, communication skills, professionalism, community involvement, and overall suitability for the program. EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The Town of Forest Heights is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr