Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center Hastings Internship (Summer 2026)
About The Position
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services is offering an immersive internship opportunity at the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center (YRTC) in Hastings. This internship provides students with a unique, hands-on experience in a secure residential facility that serves youth committed through the juvenile justice system. Interns will have the opportunity to shadow professionals across a variety of departments, gaining exposure to the interdisciplinary approach used to support, guide, and rehabilitate youth. Areas of rotation may include: Case Management – Observe how individualized treatment and case planning are implemented. Therapeutic Services – Learn about behavioral and mental health support offered to youth. Education Services – Gain insight into on-site academic programs and student engagement. Food Services – Understand the role of nutrition and meal planning in institutional care. Facility Operations – Get a broad view of how different teams work together in a secure treatment setting.
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).
- Must be 19 years of age or older at the time of application.
- Ability to pass a background check and any required facility screenings.
- Ability to commit to the agreed-upon internship schedule.
Nice To Haves
- In a program related to human services, criminal justice, behavioral health, or similar fields.
- Coursework or prior experience in youth services, juvenile justice, counseling, behavioral health, social work, or residential care.
- Experience working or volunteering with at-risk youth, schools, mentorship programs, or community service organizations.
- Awareness of trauma-informed practices or an interest in learning about behavioral interventions.
- Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong problem-solving, observation, and documentation skills.
- Strong interpersonal communication skills and willingness to work in a structured, secure environment.
Benefits
- We offer a comprehensive package of pay, benefits, paid time off, retirement and professional development opportunities to help you get the most out of your career and life.
- Your paycheck is just part of your total compensation.
- Check out all that the State of Nebraska has to offer!
- Benefit eligibility may vary by position, agency and employment status.
- For more information on benefits, please visit: https://statejobs.nebraska.gov/index.html#benefits
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What This Job Offers
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
Number of Employees
101-250 employees
