Emergency Management Intern

Emergency Management Intern

Position Type: Internship (Unpaid)
Duration: 16 weeks (Minimum 180 hours required)
Work Schedule: Flexible; hybrid (in-office and remote: based on department needs)

Position Overview

The Emergency Management Intern will support departmental efforts in planning, research, training development, and operational preparedness. This internship provides hands-on experience in public-sector emergency management, with opportunities to contribute to real-world projects, including disaster response, emergency plans, training materials, and preparedness initiatives.

Interns will gain exposure to core emergency management functions, including planning, coordination, and response support, and may have opportunities to assist during exercises or Emergency Operations Center (EOC) activations.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities may vary based on departmental priorities and the intern’s skills, but may include:

• Assist with research and analysis related to emergency management best practices, hazards, and policies
• Support development, review, and editing of emergency plans, procedures, and policy documents
• Perform data entry and basic data management, including use of spreadsheets and tracking tools
• Develop and update training materials, including presentations and instructional content
• Create visual aids (e.g., infographics, guides, quick-reference materials) to support preparedness and response efforts
• Assist with training exercises and drills, including planning, logistics, and documentation
• Provide general administrative and project support as needed
• Potentially assist with EOC activations in a support role, depending on timing and availability

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled undergraduate student in a relevant field such as:
  • Emergency Management
  • Public Administration
  • Public Policy
  • Homeland Security or related discipline
• Ability to commit to a 16-week internship and complete at least 180 hours
• Strong written communication skills, including the ability to edit and format documents clearly and professionally
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Excel and presentation tools such as Microsoft PowerPoint
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively in a hybrid environment

Preferred Skills (Not Required, but Valuable)

• Experience with research, technical writing, or policy analysis
• Familiarity with data organization or basic data analysis
• Experience creating presentations or visual materials (e.g., Canva or similar tools)
• Interest in emergency planning, training, or public safety communications

Professional Expectations

• Demonstrates reliability and accountability in completing assigned tasks
• Maintains a high level of integrity and professionalism
• Produces clear, accurate, and well-organized work
• Communicates effectively with supervisors and team members
• Adapts to changing priorities in a dynamic emergency management environment

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the internship, participants will:

• Gain practical experience in emergency management planning and operations
• Develop professional writing and document review skills
• Build experience in training development and public safety communication
• Understand the structure and function of an Emergency Operations Center (EOC)
• Strengthen research, organizational, and project management skills

Additional Information

This is an unpaid internship intended to meet academic program requirements. Applicants should coordinate with their academic institution to ensure eligibility for course credit, if applicable.