Parent Educator Internship - Fall 2026

State of Iowa•Des Moines - 50314 - Polk County, IA

7d•Remote

About The Position

This is a non-merit internship position. The 5th District, Department of Corrections is seeking highly motivated interns for a very rewarding internship as a Parent Educator. Interns will work 1:1 with staff mentors for training and online group facilitation with individuals who have criminal justice involvement. Interns will gain hands-on experience in online, evidence-based parenting and trauma-informed education classes, group facilitation, and cognitive-behavioral practices. This internship opportunity is unpaid.

Requirements

Must be 18 years of age and have completed at least two years of college by the start of the internship
Must be currently enrolled at an accredited educational institution
Child and human development knowledge
Strong verbal/written communication
Ability to multitask
A professional demeanor
Understanding of child development, trauma-informed, evidence-based parenting practices
Strict adherence to confidentiality
Comfort working within a criminal justice environment

Nice To Haves

Preferred majors/coursework include, but are not limited to, Child Development, Human Development & Family Studies, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Psychology, Education, Counseling, Sociology, or Human Services.

Responsibilities

Observe and co-facilitate virtual groups focused on evidence-based, trauma-informed parenting practices with adults.
Help reduce domestic violence, intergenerational transmission of abuse and system-involvement, and behavior change.
Review case files, conduct client intake interviews, and maintain detailed case notes in the electronic data system.
Communicate client progress, referrals, and updates with Probation Officers, Health and Human Services (HHS), and community partners.
Assist mentors in revising specialized parenting curricula aimed at reducing recidivism.
Manage group dynamics, ensure compliance with policies, and facilitate skills-practicing for behavior change.