Child and Family Services Internship (Spring 2027)

Location: Lincoln, NE (statewide) – On‑site locations include Omaha, Lincoln, Scottsbluff, Chadron, Nebraska City, Norfolk, South Sioux City, Hastings, Grand Island, Kearney, York, Seward, Fremont, Ogallala, and more. Hiring rate: $15.000.

About the role

The Child and Family Services Internship provides college or university students (or recent graduates) with hands‑on experience shadowing Child and Family Services Specialists. Interns will observe how specialists serve vulnerable children, youth, and families, working toward safe, stable, and healthy environments. The role includes exposure to case management, legal system interaction, trauma‑informed practices, and community safety initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Advocate for families.
• Respect the individuality of each child and family served.
• Respect each child’s family and culture.
• Implement family‑centered practice principles into case management to ensure inclusion of children and families in decision‑making processes.
• Promote normalcy in the lives of children in care.
• Adhere to principles and procedures of Structured Decision Making to support keeping children and families safe.
• Utilize evidence‑based practices that focus on least‑restrictive and family‑centered approaches.
• Identify and make appropriate referrals for formal and informal interventions based on the family’s needs.
• Write clear, concise, and descriptive reports in a timely manner for legal entities and the court system.

Requirements / Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at an accredited college or university (two‑to‑four‑year institution), or recently graduated (within one year) from such a program.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Coursework in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human services, mental health care, criminal justice, education, or a closely related field.

Note: State of Nebraska employees should apply internally via Workday, not through this external site.

Benefits

The State of Nebraska offers a comprehensive compensation package that includes pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement options, and professional development opportunities. Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency, and employment status. For detailed information, visit the State of Nebraska benefits page.