Summer Internship Program
Are you ready to embark on an exciting journey through the inner workings of city government?
The City of Boston Summer Internship Program invites motivated, service-driven individuals to dive into the fascinating world of municipal government. This is more than just a summer internship, it's an opportunity to launch your career while making a real difference in the communities where we work, live, and play.
The application period for the 2024 Summer Internship Program cycle is closed. Updates regarding the 2025 application will be posted here once available.
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Still have questions? Contact:
Human Resources
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1 City Hall Square
Room 612Boston, MA 02201-2017
MEET THE SUMMER 2024 COHORT
2024 Cohort
This summer, we're thrilled to host an extraordinary cohort of interns from over 14 universities and community organizations. These talented individuals are diving into meaningful work across 25 different departments, including making history as the first summer intern with Boston Public Schools in the Office of Capital Planning. Our interns are making an impact at six dynamic locations throughout the city, including City Hall, the Bolling Building, and 1010 Mass Ave.
We also launched an innovative Professional Development program designed specifically for our Summer Interns and Fellows. This program offers a structured, immersive learning journey that delves into the heart of city governance and public service. Through four meticulously crafted sessions, our interns are gaining invaluable insights and strategies to navigate the public sector with confidence and effectiveness. This initiative not only enhances their professional growth but also fosters a vibrant community of future leaders committed to making a difference.
THIS SUMMER, OUR INTERNS:
- Led Youth Lead The Change Participatory Budgeting
- Managed Mayor's social media, including drafting posts and designing graphics
- Created a city-wide plumbing parts bid and streamlined MPS payroll and interviewing processes
- Contributed to API creation, data analysis, and survey responses
- Coordinated Summer Block Parties and Neighborhood Clean-Up programs
- Worked on BPS Great Starts Integration and Boston Plays: Soccer Pilot Program
- Maintained a $250,000 mini grantee program and managed social media communications
- Developed LCA translation services form and conducted a language data project
- Worked on street infrastructure projects like bike lanes and raised crosswalks
- Published neighborhood newsletters
- Managed departmental social media accounts and handled grant work
- Assisted in organizing events and meetings, serving as an Executive Assistant to the Chief of Policy
And so much more!
Program Details
INTERN RESPONSIBILITIES
Internships provide hands-on work responsibilities in a variety of City departments. You’ll work on real projects, solve hard problems, and gain valuable feedback along the way.
Here are just a few of the ways summer interns contribute to our City of Boston teams:
- Creating presentations, drafting reports and informational materials;
- Designing content for social and digital media channels;
- Compiling research and analyzing data;
- Providing direct assistance to constituents in need;
- Supporting and participating in special events and community meetings;
- Designing marketing and promotional materials for print and digital use; and
- Supporting the department’s administrative functions.
INTERN Qualifications
This application process is competitive as we have limited internship positions available. We seek candidates who meet the following qualifications:
- Are currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program or have 2 - 4 years of post-secondary school work experience;
- Strong written and verbal communication skills;
- Ability to collaborate with individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives;
- Ability to manage time effectively, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines; and
- A demonstrated interest in serving the community and a willingness to learn and take initiative.
Boston residency is required.
APPLICATION PROCESS
The application period for the 2024 Summer Internship Program cycle is now closed. Updates regarding the 2025 application will be posted here once available.
The application form requires you to:
- Confirm your understanding and ability to comply with the City’s residency requirement by the first day of your internship.
- Provide information about your academic institution, educational background, and areas of study, if applicable;
- Answer questions about the type of working environment and job responsibilities you are best suited for;
- Upload a copy of your current resume or CV; and
- Respond to an essay question with a brief written or video response.
Please note that the application includes an optional section for you to share demographic information and languages spoken, which will help us understand our audience better and ensure a diverse and inclusive experience; this section will not impact the evaluation of your application.
SELECTION PROCESS
APPLICATION REVIEWThe Office of Human Resources will review all submissions to ensure each candidate meets the internship qualifications. Special consideration will be given to graduates of Boston Public Schools and Community Colleges, aligning with our commitment to nurturing local talent.
SCREENING CALLCandidates who meet our criteria will be contacted by HR for an initial screening call. This is a chance for us to learn more about your interests, experiences, and suitability for the program.
Virtual Group InterviewA competitive number of finalists with strong skills and experience match will be invited to a virtual group interview, allowing for a dynamic interaction and a deeper insight into each candidate's capabilities and potential fit within the program.
Cohort Selection and PlacementHR will select the final cohort based on the interviews, curating a diverse and talented group ready to embark on this enriching experience. Selected interns will be thoughtfully matched with City departments, considering their skills, interests, and the specific needs of each department.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQsThe application period for the 2024 Summer Internship Program is now closed. Details for the 2025 application cycle will be posted on this page. Check back around January or February for updates!
You do not have to be a current resident of the City of Boston to apply. However, all interns must be residents of Boston and provide proof of residency within City limits by the first day of the internship. Further details about residency requirements are available here.
This year’s internship program runs from June 3, 2024, to August 30, 2024. Interns must commit to participating until at least August 23, 2024, if not for the duration.
Yes, interns are paid an hourly wage. However, they are not eligible for employee benefits (health insurance, transit benefits, etc).
The internship program is designed to provide hands-on experience. Interns are expected to report to their assigned office for the duration of the program. However, the intern’s department and manager/supervisor may approve requests to work remotely as needed per the City of Boston’s Hybrid Work policy.
Yes, we can offer part-time positions on an as-needed basis. We ask that internship candidates make this preference known as soon as possible, so we can make arrangements accordingly.
Printable Resources
Resources-
Still have questions? Contact:
Human Resources
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1 City Hall Square
Room 612Boston, MA 02201-2017
