SBI-Business Operations Intern

Business Operations Support (BOS) oversees the Office of Data, Analytics, and Performance (DAP)’s day-to-day operations through a multitude of functions, including human resources, financial and budget management, software asset management, staff engagement, dashboard visualizations, retention, SharePoint management, training, contract management, staff surveys, data-sharing agreements, and process improvement projects. The DAP division supports the Health and Human Services (HHS) system's strategic priorities and improves the well-being of Texans by transforming data into meaningful information to support policy decisions, innovation, and improvement initiatives, and by designing, developing, and maintaining a holistic, interoperable data analytics and performance management system. 

The intern may assist BOS with a variety of assignments aligned with their skills and academic discipline, with a focus on supporting Strategic Business Initiatives priorities. Responsibilities may include assisting with drafting policies and standard operating procedures; building data collection and reporting infrastructure using tools such as Word, Excel, Power BI, Power Automate, or SharePoint Lists; and conducting research and analysis to support ongoing continuous improvement and initiative‑driven efforts; support projects that advance program goals, enhance operational effectiveness, or support organizational learning and development initiatives. 

This position is unpaid and temporary in nature. 

Learning Objectives: 

Learn how policies and standard operating procedures are implemented, how projects are managed, and how processes are improved within a large government agency. 

Learn how to conduct research and analysis that supports strategic planning and data‑driven decision‑making. 

Strengthen professional development by building skills in professional responsibility and mastering technical business skills relevant to the public sector. 

Gain foundational knowledge of how government operations and administrative support functions operate within a large state agency. 

Build a professional network within the HHS system through collaboration and engagement with staff and leadership. 

Enhance interpersonal and communication skills by learning to collaborate effectively in a team‑oriented, professional environment. 

Internship Projects: 

Assist with ongoing process improvement efforts by collecting and organizing position‑level information from existing sources, compiling verified information into master reference lists for leadership review. 

Contribute to the accuracy and reliability of internal resources by verifying, updating, and maintaining source information. 

Assist with the design and development of process maps for business operations. 

Internship Deliverables: 

A summary report of the intern’s experience and contributions at the conclusion of the internship. 

Validated and organized foundational project resources, including internal reference materials, consolidated master lists, and basic data tracking tools, to support accurate documentation, knowledge management, and project monitoring efforts. 

Process observation notes and improvement recommendations documenting current‑state workflows. 

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS 

Currently enrolled graduate-level students are preferred, but we will also accept high-performing undergraduate students at the junior or senior level. 

Preference will be given to those obtaining degrees in the following fields: Public Administration, Business Administration, Management, Human Resources, Public Policy, Data Analytics, Information Systems, Operations Management, Communications, Technical Writing, Process Improvement, Project Management, Organizational Development, or related fields. 

Candidates with experience or coursework in data visualization tools, business analytics, strategic planning, performance measurement, policy development, or standard operating procedure documentation are encouraged to apply. 

QUALIFICATIONS 

Required Qualifications: 

Strong time-management skills  

Ability to work effectively both independently and within a team environment 

Strong written and verbal communication skills 

Attention to detail  

Strong research capabilities 

Willingness to learn new systems and tools 

Preferred Qualifications: 

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills. 

Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools including Excel, Word, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, Power Automate, and familiarity with Adobe Suite products. 

Ability to manage multiple documents and reference materials. 

Experience or familiarity with data and business tools such as Microsoft Excel, Power BI, or other data visualization or analytics platform. 

Comfort working with AI-enabled tools, with an understanding of the importance of validation and quality control. 

Flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced or evolving environment. 

LOCATION AND COMMITMENT 

Hybrid (both in-person and virtual options) 

Approximately 20 hours per week 

Anticipated duration: Summer 2026