Child and Family Services Internship (Summer 2027)

Hiring Agency: Health & Human Services – Agency 25 | Locations: Omaha, Lincoln, Scottsbluff, Chadron, Nebraska City, Norfolk, South Sioux City, Hastings, Grand Island, Kearney, York, Seward, Fremont, Ogallala, and more | Hiring Rate: $15.00/hour | Application Review: March 1, 2027 | Application Deadline: March 26, 2027

About the role

Our Child and Family Services Internship provides hands‑on experience shadowing Child and Family Services Specialists who serve some of Nebraska’s most vulnerable populations. Interns will learn how CFSS roles provide opportunities, services, and programs that promote a healthy, safe, and stable environment for children and youth in their communities with their caregivers. CFSS work closely with families that need child welfare intervention because of abuse and/or neglect, sometimes collaborating with the legal system toward permanency goals. Case managers are trained on resources to help children and families heal from trauma and on promoting community safety. The division aims to provide the least disruptive services for only the time necessary to give children the opportunity to succeed, live with dignity and respect, and help families care for themselves — resulting in healthier families and safer, more prosperous communities.

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 the inclusion of children and families in decision‑making processes that impact their lives.
• Promote normalcy in the lives of children in care.
• Adhere to principles and procedures of Structured Decision Making as a tool that supports 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 that will be shared with legal entities and the court system.

Requirements

• 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 an undergraduate or graduate degree program at an accredited college or university (two‑ to four‑year institution).

Qualifications

• Coursework in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, human services, mental healthcare, criminal justice, education, or any other closely related field (preferred).

Benefits

Select temporary assignments are eligible for benefits, including health, dental, and long‑/short‑term disability. Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency, and employment status.

Pay

Hourly rate: $15.00