Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Intern (Unpaid Intern) at County of Orange, CA

About the Department

County of Orange Social Services Agency

The County of Orange Social Services Agency (SSA) is responsible for planning, implementing, and operating many of the social services programs provided by the County of Orange. SSA’s mission is to deliver quality services that are accessible and responsive to the community, encourage personal responsibility, strengthen individuals, preserve families, and protect vulnerable adults and children. With over 4,000 dedicated employees, the Agency provides human services to an average of one in four Orange County residents. Funding for these programs come from State, Federal, and County sources. 

SSA is comprised of four business divisions: Administrative Services, Assistance Programs, Children and Family Services, and Family Self-Sufficiency and Adult Services. More specifically, the Administrative Services (Admin) Division implements and coordinates resources behind the scenes to support SSA’s programs and staff, allowing them to provide services critical to the community.

The Opportunity

The intern will assist with projects and initiatives that support SSA employees and the larger community. Duties will vary depending upon qualifications and academic level of the applicant. Assignments may include the following:
 

• Provide support with equity-centered workshops/trainings designed for all staff 
• Create and update resource materials and educational content related to diversity, equity, and inclusion
• Develop communications and strategies for employee engagement   
• Coordinate special projects, conduct research, and gather information 
• Interact with other governmental and community-based organizations 
• Assist with community outreach events and employee resource group events 
• Collaborate with other internal departments within the Agency 
• Participate in meetings, schedule and conduct presentations, and assist with day-to-day administrative duties

Educational Requirements
Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college/university and majoring in  communications, education, human resources, human services, history, political science, public administration, public affairs, public policy, psychology, social work, sociology, or related fields. Recent (within 6 months) graduates who have completed their degree in one of the above fields are eligible to apply.

Skills, Training & Qualifications:

• Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Make decisions and solve problems using sound, inclusive reasoning and judgment 
• Demonstrate dependability and the ability to work autonomously when appropriate
• Have the ability to carry out multiple projects and responsibilities to completion
• Display a sense of curiosity and willingness to learn 
• Have an open mind to diverse ideas and new ways of thinking
• Demonstrate good computer skills and familiarity with technology to assist with tasks
• Collaborate with and learn from others
• Act with integrity, respect, compassion, and inclusiveness 

Training & Supervision that will be Provided by the Agency/Department & Division
The intern will report directly to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager at SSA. 

Time Commitment

The nature of the work being handled by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Intern necessitates that the intern come into the office. Remote work is not available. Students who apply will only be considered for January/February 2026 placement. 
  
Minimum of 12 hours per week for 3 - 6 months. Hours must be scheduled during regular business hours (Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.). Applicants able to schedule the maximum hours/duration listed for this internship typically gain a more in-depth experience.

Benefits Available to the Intern

Although the position is unpaid and does not lead to permanent employment or include employee benefits, it is an excellent opportunity for students or recent graduates to gain knowledge in the fields of human resources; diversity, equity, and inclusion; communications; public affairs; community outreach; and more. 

The intern will acquire experience working in a professional office environment for one of Orange County’s largest employers, as well as gain an in-depth understanding of the variety of programs and services offered by SSA.

This is a great opportunity to enhance skills, build resumes, be part of a dynamic team, apply academic knowledge, and explore career options.

Required Background Screening

Applicants must pass a background investigation to the satisfaction of the agency prior to placement. If selected for applicants must provide a copy of their state-issued driver's license and Social Security card with their background material. Since background investigations take time to complete, applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Position Duties

EMAIL NOTIFICATION:
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.

NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.

Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at www.governmentjobs.com.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
For additional internship postings, please check our Web site at the following link: https://hrs.ocgov.com/careers/volunteer-intern/internships/internship-opportunities

Click here for additional Frequently Asked Questions.

Minimum Qualifications

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