Office of Policy, Planning and Programs Intern (Summer 2026)

Description of Work

Are you a college student or recent college graduate interested in learning about programs, policy development and planning related to public safety? If so, continue reading because this internship could be the perfect fit for you. 

The North Carolina Department of Public Safety (DPS) has an internship opportunity in Office of Policy, Planning, and Programs (OPPP) for the Summer of 2026. OPPP supports DPS in achieving its mission and goals by providing in-depth policy management, strategic planning, program management, and program/analysis support to include data analysis and research, as well as recommending revised or new policies, regulations, business processes, and implementation strategies to improve the Department’s capacity to achieve better outcomes. OPPP provides these services for the Department as a whole, as well as for individual divisions and sections within the Department.

The intern will be asked to complete assignments which will help to advance task force initiatives/advisory council initiatives forward. The intern will provide administrative, logistical, and analytical support to DPS task forces on a variety of public safety topics. The current task force assigned to DPS include gang intervention and prevention and student safety and well-being. The intern will also participate in special projects, including research assignments to support DPS task force and advisory councils. 

Applicants should possess Microsoft skills including Word, Excel, Power Point, Webex, and Teams. This internship requires the ability to research criminal justice programs and initiatives across the nation and provide a report of results.

This internship is expected to start on May 18, 2026, and continue through July 24, 2026. The work schedule is part-time (up to 30 hours per week), Monday -Friday. The rate of pay is $18.00 per hour. We value our employees and are committed to providing flexibility in work schedules. This position qualifies for teleworking on a part-time basis as part of the State Telework Program.

A college transcript is required to determine eligibility. Please attach your unofficial college transcript(s). 

The selected intern will be required to provide a letter of recommendation from a professional reference or academic advisor/professor before being hired.

Interns will be hired through Temporary Solutions which operates as the State’s temporary employment agency. As a temporary position there are no leave or retirement benefits offered with this position. Visit www.nctemporarysolutions.com for employment information.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities/Management Preferences

DPS uses the Merit-Based Recruitment and Selection Plan to fill positions subject to the State Human Resources Act with the most qualified individuals.    

The Minimum Education and Experience (E&E) is REQUIRED to qualify for this position. Management Preferences, including Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs), are not required but may be used to determine the pool of most qualified applicants. Managers may also choose to interview/select applicants who demonstrate Management Preferences.    

All work history and education (including accurate dates of employment/attendance) must be documented on the application. Work experience may include internships, volunteerism, and full and part-time work. A complete, all-inclusive application maximizes an applicant’s potential to qualify for the position, as well as receive the highest possible salary if selected for the position. Salary will be based on relevant qualifications, internal equity, and budgetary considerations for the advertised position. Click here for more information and application resources.   

Resumes may be attached as a supplement to the application but are not a substitute for a complete application.    

Management Preferences   

• Must be currently enrolled in college or a recent college graduate. NOTE: "Recent" graduates are those who have graduated within the last 6 months.
• Must be pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree (or a recent graduate) in Criminal Justice, Policy, Public Administration or related field.

A college transcript is required to determine eligibility. Please attach your unofficial college transcript(s). The transcript must include your name, courses/major, and the name of the college/university.

Note: Please make sure your application is complete before submitting because the system will not allow you to reapply. (college transcript must be attached)

Note: Interns must submit to a background check and fingerprinting or consent to agency onboarding requirements.