Student Assistant Internship (HESC), Ref# 10098
ITS will not offer permanent employment to any candidate unless the candidate provides documentation that they are authorized to accept work in the United States on a permanent basis. It is the policy of ITS not to hire F1 or H1 visa holders for permanent employment or to sponsor non-immigrant aliens for temporary work authorization visas or for permanent residence.
Duties Description
Under the direction of Information Technology Specialist 4, within the HESC Dedicated Team the position will be involved with modernizing legacy systems that support educational services across New York State.
Specific duties include, but are not limited to:
Legacy System Modernization & Transformation
• Participate in initiatives to assess, document, and modernize existing legacy systems
• Support application modernization projects that transition older technologies to current platforms
• Contribute to business transformation programs aimed at improving operational efficiency
• Gain exposure to the technical and strategic challenges of large-scale system migrations
Technology Research & Innovation
• Research emerging technology trends, including AI, automation, and cloud solutions
• Evaluate how new technologies AI/ML can be applied to modernization efforts
• Provide analysis and recommendations on tools and approaches that could enhance current operations
• Help identify opportunities where innovation can address long-standing technical challenges
Business Intelligence & Analytics
• Support leadership in developing Business Intelligence (BI) reports and dashboards
• Assist in data analysis to provide insights that inform technology and business decisions
• Help translate business requirements into reporting solutions
• Contribute to creating visibility into system performance and operational metrics
Cross-Functional Support
• Collaborate with technical teams, business analysts, and project stakeholders
• Document existing systems, processes, and technical specifications
• Participate in planning sessions and contribute ideas for improvement
• Support day-to-day technology operations and problem-solving efforts
Preferred Skills:
Education
• Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Management Information Systems, Data Analytics, or related field (required)
• Recent graduates or students in their final year are encouraged to apply
Experience
• 1-2 years of relevant experience in technology, IT operations, or related field (preferred but not mandatory)
• Academic projects, internships, or coursework demonstrating technical foundation are valuable
Technical Skills
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, Outlook)
• Familiarity with data analysis, reporting tools, or BI platforms (Tableau, Power BI, or similar) is a plus
• Understanding of databases, programming concepts, or systems architecture is helpful
• Interest in learning about both legacy and modern technology stacks
• Knowledge of emerging technologies including AI/ML concepts is advantageous
Professional Attributes
• Self-motivated learner with patience and persistence to work through complex technical challenges
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities—comfort with ambiguity is essential
• Good communication skills to work across technical and non-technical teams
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Practical mindset focused on finding workable solutions to real-world problems
• Genuine interest in understanding how technology serves NY State Gov mission
What You'll Gain
Valuable Real-World Experience
• Hands-on exposure to the realities of enterprise IT transformation in a large organization
• Experience with both legacy technologies and modern solutions—a unique combination highly valued in the industry
• Understanding of the technical, operational, and organizational aspects of system modernization
• Mentorship from professionals who have navigated complex technology transitions
• Practical skills in problem-solving, documentation, and stakeholder management
Professional Development
• Opportunity to develop both technical depth and breadth across multiple technology domains
• Experience that builds strong foundations for roles in systems analysis, project management, or technical leadership
• Exposure to project methodologies, change management, and governance processes
• Professional networking within New York State government technology community
Meaningful Impact
• Contribute to initiatives that improve educational services for New York State residents
• Be part of the important work of modernizing critical government systems
• See how technology decisions affect real operations and real people
Realistic Career Foundation
• Build adaptable skills applicable across industries and technology environments
• Gain experience that demonstrates your ability to handle complex, real-world challenges
• Develop problem-solving abilities that come from working with diverse technology ecosystems
Location
• Preferred Locations: New York City or Albany, NY
• Hybrid work arrangements may be available depending on project needs
Minimum Qualifications
- Must be a US citizen or foreign national eligible to work in the United States
- Must be 18 years of age or older
- Must be currently attending a New York State college, university or graduate program, or be a resident of New York State attending a college, university or graduate program outside of New York State
- Must have completed a minimum of one (1) year as a student at a degree-granting two or four-year college or university (completion of one year’s worth of academic credits over a more extended period of time may qualify part-time students) OR currently enrolled graduate student or accepted in a graduate degree program
- Must have a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or equivalent to a C.
The Office of Information Technology Services is an equal opportunity employer, and we recognize that diversity in our workforce is critical to fulfilling our mission. We encourage all individuals with disabilities to apply.