PUBLIC SERVICE INTERN

State of Arkansas • Little Rock, AR

85d • $33,280 - $49,254

About The Position

The Arkansas Department of Finance & Administration has developed a paid internship program that provides students with the opportunity to gain hands-on experience while developing an understanding of Arkansas State government. Fall and Spring internships last for 10 weeks and permit students to work up to 20 hours per week. Applicants must be a sophomore, junior or senior in good standing at an accredited college or university majoring in business administration, management, marketing, communications, human resources, legal studies/law, political science, public policy/administration, journalism, english, cyber/network security, web development, data analytics, computer science, business information systems, management information systems, or other related majors; and hold a valid Arkansas Driver's License or State issued ID. Recent graduates may also be considered. If selected for an interview, the applicant will need to bring one letter of recommendation from an academic official such as a department head, dean, instructor, or counselor. The mission of the Department of Finance and Administration is to provide Arkansas citizens convenient, effective, and courteous service which will encourage voluntary compliance with tax, license, and child support laws.

Requirements

• Must have a high-school diploma.
• Applicants must be a sophomore, junior or senior in good standing at an accredited college or university majoring in relevant fields.

Nice To Haves

• Basic understanding of public administration and government operations, including the roles and functions of state agencies.
• Familiarity with legislative processes, public policy development, and community services.
• Knowledge of office management practices, including the use of office equipment and computer software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to prepare reports, emails, and presentations.
• Research skills with the ability to gather and analyze information from a variety of sources.
• Organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and contribute to group goals.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion when handling sensitive information.
• Ability to adapt to a fast-paced work environment and take initiative when necessary.

Responsibilities

• Provide general administrative support, including scheduling meetings, organizing files, maintaining records, and preparing correspondence.
• Assist in drafting reports, memos, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Assist in conducting research on policy issues, public programs, or legislative matters relevant to the department or agency.
• Analyze data, prepare summaries, and present findings to senior staff to support decision-making processes.
• Assist in the development of communication materials, including newsletters, flyers, and social media content.
• Help coordinate public meetings, forums, or community events, ensuring smooth operations and facilitating participant engagement.

Benefits

• Paid internship program
• Hands-on experience in state government

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: High school or GED