Internships with the County of San Diego offer students and recent graduates a valuable opportunity to gain hands-on experience in public service, understand how local government operates, and build a career foundation in a variety of fields.
With over 18,000 employees and departments ranging from health and human services to public safety, environmental management, law enforcement, and technology, the County provides a dynamic environment where interns can thrive, learn, and contribute to community well-being.
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Purpose and Benefits
Internships at the County of San Diego are designed to bridge academic learning with real-world application. These programs allow participants to:
- Apply classroom theories in practical settings
- Explore potential career paths within government
- Gain exposure to the structure, operations, and priorities of local agencies
- Develop professional skills such as communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and time management
- Build a network with professionals in various sectors
Whether you’re studying public health, criminal justice, computer science, or urban planning, there’s likely a department or project aligned with your interests.
Types of Internship Programs
The County offers both paid and unpaid internships, with some positions eligible for academic credit. Opportunities are typically divided into the following categories:
1. Student Worker Internships
These are part-time, entry-level roles for students enrolled in high school, undergraduate, or graduate programs. They provide meaningful work experiences while supporting students in maintaining their academic commitments. Common departments that hire student interns include:
- Human Resources
- Environmental Health
- Land Use and Planning
- Libraries and Community Services
2. Professional and Graduate Internships
Designed for students in advanced programs (such as Master’s degrees or post-baccalaureate certificates), these internships often involve more specialized duties and collaboration on significant projects. Examples include:
- Behavioral Health Internships for social work and psychology students
- Public Health Internships in epidemiology or community outreach
- Legal Internships for law students interested in public defense or prosecution
3. Volunteer Internship Programs
While unpaid, these programs are ideal for individuals looking to contribute to community initiatives or gain exposure to public service sectors without a formal job commitment. These are flexible and often project-based.
Key Departments That Host Interns
Internships are available across numerous County departments. Here are a few notable ones:
- Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA): Offers experience in public health, social services, aging and independence services, and behavioral health programs.
- Office of the District Attorney & Public Defender: Law students can gain experience with real casework, research, and court procedures.
- Department of Environmental Health and Quality: Provides hands-on experience in environmental regulation, food safety inspections, and sustainability projects.
- Planning & Development Services: Interns may support zoning, land use analysis, GIS mapping, and urban planning initiatives.
- Information Technology: Ideal for computer science, cybersecurity, or data analytics students.
Duration and Work Schedule
Internships typically last one semester or quarter, but some extend for a year or are offered year-round. Schedules are usually flexible to accommodate academic obligations, averaging 10 to 20 hours per week.
Career Pathways and Advancement
Many County internships serve as gateways to full-time employment. Interns who perform well often build strong reputations and gain references that benefit them in competitive hiring processes. The County also offers fellowships, entry-level positions, and training programs for continued professional growth.
The Bottom Line
A County of San Diego internship is more than just a resume builder. It’s a chance to make a tangible impact in local communities, contribute to public service goals, and find your place in a wide-ranging system that values innovation, equity, and excellence. From improving environmental standards to supporting vulnerable populations, interns can be proud of their role in driving meaningful change across the San Diego region.
Whether you’re exploring options or ready to apply, consider an internship with the County of San Diego as your first step into a rewarding public sector journey.
Official Website
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