Executive Pathways Cultural Engagement Intern

The work you'll do is more than just a job.

At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), in collaboration with many partners, helps Minnesota’s most vulnerable residents meet their basic needs so they can live in dignity and achieve their highest potential. 

The Executive Pathways Program is a paid summer internship (June – August) for college students to explore a rewarding career in public service. 

What you can expect during your internship:

• Hands-on experience impacting individuals and processes within a large human service agency
• Opportunity to meet (virtually and in-person) to network with other state employees
• Attend virtual workshops focused on your Professional development
• Give back to the communities DHS serves through volunteerism

Job Summary

This position is eligible for telework for applicants who reside in Minnesota or in a bordering state, with supervisory approval and satisfactory performance. If you live in a state bordering Minnesota, you must live within 50 miles or less from the primary work location to be eligible for telework.

The Cultural Engagement Intern will serve in the office Behavioral Health Administration's working closely with the American Indian Team. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (MN DHS) Behavioral Health American Indian Division (AI BHD) is seeking an Intern to support its mission of providing resources and developing policies that benefit American Indian families, children, communities, and Tribal Nations in Minnesota. Through cultural engagement and collaboration with American Indian partners, AI BHD works toward sustainable systemic changes. The ideal candidate has lived experience in a Tribal Nation or Urban Indian community or a strong passion and experience working within these settings. They should have an interest in data collection, resource development, and culturally centered engagement. This internship is a unique opportunity to support systemic change and make a meaningful difference in the lives of American Indians across Minnesota.

Some responsibilities include but not limited to: 

• Update and enhance the American Indian Team’s online presence, making resources more accessible to internal and external partners.
• Plan, develop, and organize improved data collection systems to track and analyze disparities affecting American Indian communities in Minnesota.
• Assist in planning the 2026 American Indian Substance Use Disorder Summit, including collecting and compiling relevant data for the event.
• Collaborate with team members to provide technical assistance and foster mutual partnerships with American Indian communities.