City Council/City Manager Internship Fall 2026

Summary

Under supervision, supports the City Council and City Manager offices in administrative duties, customer service, and special projects for the duration of one (1) university semester.

Essential Functions

• Answer phones on the first ring, directing calls correctly, taking detailed, objective messages from citizens, and communicating the messages to the correct city staff;
• Serve as point-of-contact for citizens wishing to share their concerns, questions, and opinions with the Mayor, City Council, and City Manager;
• Write assignments given by Staff: coversheets, remarks, special recognitions, scripts, letters, certificates, and reviewing all documents for grammar, spelling, and researching as needed and on time;
• Conduct research to complete projects regarding events, documents, letters, or getting contact information;
• Assist in research and analysis of policy for special projects;
• Make deliveries and special trips for Staff for office supplies or items for City Council members;
• Set up and tear down events, lunches, and meetings with Staff;
• Stock the kitchen refrigerator and keep the kitchen clean and stocked;
• Attend meetings with Staff as backup for errands, notes, etc.

Qualifications

• Current Undergraduate or Graduate student in public administration, social sciences, communications, or related field;
• Demonstrate effective oral and written communication;
• The successful applicant will have strong research and writing skills, internet and social media fluency, flexibility to flourish with multiple assignments, and eagerness to take initiative and learn about municipal government.

Internship Details:

• Duration: August – December 2026. Exact start and end dates depend on the applicant
• Pay: $13.12 per hour/paid biweekly
• Hours: Interns generally work an average of 20 hours per week, depending on the needs of the office and the availability of the intern. Office is open 8-5, Monday-Friday.
• Dress: Business casual/ business professional
• Supervisors: Matt Dotray, Addison Barthold, Kristen Murray, Melissa Lopez

Knowledge and Abilities

Knowledge of:

• Principles and practices of public administration and municipal government;
• Administrative research methods, techniques, and methods of report presentation;
• Use of business software such as Microsoft Word, and Excel.

• Analyze difficult administrative problems, and develop sound solutions;
• Develop and maintain professional relationships;
• Clearly communicate at multiple organizational levels.

• Maintain the ability to frequently walk and stand;
• Occasionally lift and carry up to 10 pounds.