About the role#
The 5th District Department of Corrections is seeking interns to support parenting education programs. You will work alongside staff mentors to gain experience in evidence-based, trauma-informed education and cognitive-behavioral practices. This role involves working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system who are not currently incarcerated.
What you'll do#
- Observe and co-facilitate virtual groups focused on trauma-informed parenting practices.
- Help reduce domestic violence, intergenerational transmission of abuse, and system-involvement.
- Conduct client intake interviews and review case files.
- Maintain detailed case notes in the electronic data system.
- Coordinate with Probation Officers, Health and Human Services, and community partners regarding client progress and referrals.
- Assist mentors in revising specialized parenting curricula.
- Manage group dynamics and facilitate skills-practicing for behavior change.
- Ensure all work complies with department policies.
What you'll need#
- You must be at least 18 years old and have completed two years of college.
- You must be currently enrolled at an accredited educational institution.
- Preferred fields of study include Psychology, Sociology, Child Development, Human Development and Family Studies, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Education, Counseling, or Human Services.
- Knowledge of child and human development.
- Ability to multitask and maintain a professional demeanor.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Understanding of trauma-informed and evidence-based parenting practices.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
- Comfort working within a criminal justice environment.
Location & details#
- This internship is based in Des Moines, Iowa.
- The position is on-site.
- This is an unpaid internship for the Winter 2027 term, beginning in January 2027.
About State of Iowa - Executive Branch
The State of Iowa Executive Branch delivers public services through 16 distinct agencies. These departments manage sectors ranging from agriculture and transportation to public health and corrections. Established in 1858, the organization employs over 10,000 people. It focuses on efficiency and service delivery for the citizens of Iowa.
How to get in at State of Iowa - Executive Branch
Applying early for a role at the State of Iowa Executive Branch gives you a significant advantage before the applicant pool grows. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published, ensuring you are among the first to submit your materials. Getting your application in early often means it is reviewed before the pile becomes unmanageable. You can find the recruiters behind these government roles through Intern Insider to reach out directly. Asking a specific question about the department or requesting a referral can materially improve your response rates compared to submitting into a general queue. This direct approach helps you stand out in a large organization.
