Starting your career is about more than just building a resume – it's about finding work that inspires you, challenges you, and makes a difference. The State of Oregon offers internships that give students and early-career professionals the chance to learn, grow, and explore career paths in public service.
What is an Internship?
An internship is typically a short-term opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a professional setting. As an intern, you might help design outreach materials, assist with environmental research, support community programs, or contribute to technology projects – all while learning from experienced professionals.
Internships with the State of Oregon are designed to:
- Provide learning opportunities that connect classroom knowledge to real-world practice.
- Introduce students to public service, showing how state government agencies serve Oregonians.
Benefits of a State Government Internship
Whether you're exploring career options or preparing to enter the workforce, a State of Oregon internship offers benefits you can carry into any profession. Choosing to intern with the State of Oregon comes with unique advantages:
- Hands-On Learning – Gain practical experience by contributing to real projects that serve Oregonians.
- Professional Growth – Develop transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving while receiving mentorship and guidance.
- Networking Opportunities – Connect with professionals across state agencies and build relationships that can support your future career.
- Meaningful Impact – Be part of projects that make a difference for communities across Oregon.
- Pathway to Employment – Many interns use their experience as a stepping stone to careers in state government.
Start Exploring Your Options
Internships opportunities with the State of Oregon are available across a wide range of fields. Students can explore roles in areas such as:
- Human Resources & Business Services
- Energy & Environmental Protection
- Health & Human Services
- Transportation & Infrastructure
- Finance & Consumer Services
- Public Safety & Law
- And more!
Not every internship will look the same. Some programs are formally structured, occurring annually with established durations and work assignments, while others may be project-based and can open at any time. Explore options that best match your skills, interests, and career goals.
Different Ways to Apply
Internship opportunities across Oregon state government are shared through a variety of channels. Here are the most common ways you may find and apply for internships.
- Workday Job Board
- The primary system for state job postings, including internships.
- Click here to view the job board
- Follow this guide to set up Job Alerts to be notified when new opportunities are posted!
- Agency Website
- Some internships are advertised directly on individual agency career pages, especially for seasonal or program-specific opportunities.
- University Partnerships & Career Fairs
- Several agencies partner with Oregon colleges and universities by:
- Posting internships on Handshake
- Attending career fairs and on-campus events
- Social Media
- A number of agencies promote opportunities on platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook to reach a broader audience.
- Referrals and Networking
- Professors, career service staff, or professional networks may share opportunities directly with students.
Tips for Applying
Be clear and thorough! Many agencies request a resume, cover letter, or supplemental questions as part of the application process. To strengthen your application:
- Review materials carefully for errors before you submit.
- Be thorough but concise in describing your experiences.
- Emphasize transferable skills – teamwork, communication, research, leadership, and initiative.
Write with the Hiring Manager in Mind
When preparing your application materials, remember that internships may be competitive. Showcase how your background, goals, and values connect to the opportunity.
- Use clear, professional language to describe your skills and experiences.
- Highlight coursework, volunteer work, and work experience that show initiative.
- Review the required and preferred qualifications in each posting, then connect your experience to those.
- Share your interest in learning, growth, and contributing to Oregon communities.
Don't Delay
Some internship opportunities are posted for only a short time. Apply as soon as you find a position that interests you. If you don't see an internship open right now, check back frequently or sign up for job alerts to be notified when new opportunities are posted - click here to find out how!