Student Intern

Student Intern

Employees of the City of Clinton and applicants for employment shall be afforded equal opportunity in all aspects of employment without regard to race, color, religion, political affiliation, national origin, disability, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, or age. Reasonable accommodations may be available to employees or applicants for this position under the ADA/ADAA, provided the employee or applicant gives prior notice. The information in this document is designed to indicate the general nature and level of work to be performed by an employee within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, qualifications, or work required of employees assigned to this position.

Position Summary

The Student Intern (Unpaid – For Academic Credit) participates in a structured educational experience that provides practical exposure to municipal government operations. This internship is intended to complement academic coursework and must be completed in coordination with an accredited educational institution to earn academic credit. This position is primarily educational and observational. The Intern will assist with projects and activities that support learning objectives, but will not displace regular employees or perform work that would otherwise be assigned to paid staff.

Educational Purpose

The internship is structured to:

• Provide hands-on exposure to local government operations
• Reinforce classroom instruction through practical experience
• Develop professional skills in communication, research, and workplace conduct
• Offer mentorship and supervised learning opportunities
• Support the student's academic and career development goals

Essential Learning Activities

Under close supervision, the Intern may:

• Observe departmental operations and meetings
• Assist with research, data collection, and project support
• Draft summaries, reports, or presentations for educational purposes
• Participate in training sessions and professional development opportunities
• Assist with administrative tasks that support learning objectives
• Shadow department personnel to gain insight into municipal functions
• Complete an assigned project aligned with academic requirements

The Intern's activities are educational and designed to enhance learning rather than to meet operational staffing needs.

Minimum Qualifications

• Current enrollment in high school or an accredited college, university, or technical program
• Internship required or approved for academic credit
• Written authorization from an educational institution outlining internship requirements
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to maintain confidentiality
• Professional demeanor and willingness to learn

Special Requirements

• Completion of the internship agreement between the City and the educational institution
• Background screening, if required by the department
• Compliance with all City policies and procedures

Compensation

This is an unpaid internship. The Intern will not receive wages or employment benefits. Academic credit is provided through the student's educational institution.

Supervision and Evaluation

• The Intern will be assigned a departmental supervisor
• Regular feedback will be provided
• The City will complete any required academic evaluations or documentation

Acknowledgment

Participation in this internship does not create an employment relationship with the City, and the Intern is not entitled to compensation or future employment.