Executive Internship - SPRING Semester

The City of Norfolk Executive Internship Program is a ten-week, competitive program that provides undergraduate and graduate students with hands-on experience in local government. Interns are matched with departments aligned with their field of study and career goals, gaining practical work experience, building a professional network, and contributing to meaningful projects. The program offers insight into city operations, public policy, and local government functions, preparing students for successful careers in public service.  

Spring 2026 Internship Opportunity

8:30AM – 5:00PM, Monday through Friday; work hours, workdays, and work schedule may vary by department.

Program Dates 
(Program dates and information are subject to change):

February 2 – April 10, 2026

Hiring Salary: $17.00

Essential Functions

Participating Department Descriptions

Norfolk Police Department - Community Affairs 
The Norfolk Police Department’s Community Services Division is dedicated to building strong relationships between law enforcement and the community they serve. Through outreach programs, educational initiatives, youth engagement, and neighborhood partnerships, the division focuses on crime prevention, safety awareness, and creating opportunities for open dialogue. Striving to strengthen trust, foster collaboration, and ensure that all residents feel connected and supported. The CSD intern will gain hands on experience in community policing, outreach, and public engagement. They will support the planning, coordination of community events, and contribute to communication efforts that highlight the department’s work. If time permits, they will be assigned to other divisions and be provided the opportunity to have a ride along to learn what the divisions in the department do in the community. 

Qualifications: Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time. Lift up to 30lbs. Ability to pass a background check. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Comfortable interacting with diverse members of the community. Organized, dependable, detailed orientated, professional, and able to maintain confidentiality. Creative problem solving and a willingness to contribute new ideas. Intern must have a reliable mode of transportation. 
Preferred Majors: Criminal Justice

Department of Parks and Recreation 
The Department of Parks & Recreation is responsible for managing and maintaining the city’s public parks, playgrounds, beaches, urban forestry, cemeteries, recreation centers, and community programs. The Executive Intern will work closely with the Parks and Recreation leadership team to gain hands-on experience in community programming and departmental operations. The intern will assist with the planning, coordination, and execution of various community special events and contribute to the development and support of recreational initiatives. Assist in the organization and facilitation of various community special events, including setup, on-site coordination, and post-event evaluations. Create forms, templates, and documents to support the operational needs of programs and community partners. Develop a comprehensive overview of the department, including its organizational structure, services, and key programs. Design and implement a new recreation-based program or initiative during the internship period. This includes conducting research, outlining goals and logistics, and evaluating the program's effectiveness. 

Qualifications: Strong communication (verbal and written), organization and time management skills, team collaboration, creativity and problem-solving. Basic proficiency in Microsoft Office or Google Workspace. Ability to engage with diverse community members. A passion for community service, public recreation, and local government. 
Preferred Majors: Parks, Recreation, Tourism Management, Leisure Studies, Public Administration, Sports Management, Education, and Youth/Community Development

All required documentation can be uploaded via the online application system using the “add attachments” feature OR e-mailed to NEL@norfolk.gov by the application deadline. Any missing documentation not submitted by the deadline will unfortunately disqualify your application for consideration for the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS 

• US citizenship or legally authorized to work in the U.S.
• A desire to work in public service at the local level.
• Currently enrolled in a degree-granting program of study at Norfolk State University, Old Dominion University, Virginia Wesleyan University, or Tidewater Community College OR be a resident of Norfolk, attending a college or university outside of Norfolk. 
• Norfolk residents attending a college or university outside of Norfolk must provide proof of residency.  
• Applicants must be a junior, senior, or graduate-level student at the time of application and be in good academic standing. 
• Community college students must have completed at least one semester and 12 credit hours towards a degree.  Applicants must have completed at least 6 credit hours in science, mathematics, engineering, technology, or course areas directly related to the program of study or internship at the time of application. 
• Undergraduate students must have a cumulative GPA of 2.7 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Graduate students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
• Be able to work 10-20 hours per week and available to work the duration of the internship period.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & REQUIREMENTS

• Attach a letter of recommendation from an academic professor. 
• Attach a current resume showcasing prior work and/or volunteer experience, relevant coursework, extracurricular activities, awards, or recognition.  
• Attach the most recent transcript. 
• Attach a personal statement. 
• All participants 18 years of age or older are required to complete a background check.