Policy & Strategic Initiatives Intern

At the Nebraska Department of Education, Policy and Strategic Initiatives is responsible for researching, ideating, writing, advocating for, implementing, and evaluating education policy for Nebraska’s school systems. The office serves as the primary connection to the Unicameral and other state agencies, and ushers through the State Board’s legislative priorities and stances on bills.

The policy intern will provide students with firsthand experiences in analyzing bills and drafting summary documents, researching other education policy areas of mutual interest between the intern and NDE. Students will gain valuable insights into the inner workings of state government, relationship between the executive branch and legislative branches, and skills in researching, writing, and presenting policy problems and solutions.

**The Nebraska Department of Education does not sponsor or transfer non-immigrant work visas for these positions.**  

Internships at NDE are set up as employee/employer contract positions. This internship is expected to take place within the spring semester (beginning early January and ending in early June), at 15-20 hours per week.

Office Location: This position is assigned to our office located at 84th & O St, Lincoln, NE.

Pay Rates:

The pay rate for this position is dependent on education and is based upon available budget funds; any offer will be made at this rate.

• Successful candidates pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a related field: $16.50/hour
• Successful candidates pursuing a master’s degree in a related field: $18.50/hour

Essential Functions

• Develops understanding of Nebraska’s diverse schools and districts, in addition to offices within the Nebraska Department of Education.
• Transforms highly technical research and data reports into fact sheets and visuals that are accessible and meet the needs of the public.
• Supports tracking of legislation including amendments, committee assignments, and hearing dates.
• Analyzes bills and drafts analyses aligned to the Nebraska State Board of Education’s goals, priorities, and stance on bills.
• Assists with review and drafting of responses to legislation.
• Maintains regular & reliable attendance, travels independently, and works in a variety of settings.

Working Conditions and Travel:

This position requires approximately 95% of work time spent in an office environment; the remaining 5% is spent traveling or working in alternative sites such as the State Capitol or legislative meetings. There is no expected overnight travel.

Requirements / Qualifications:

Minimum Qualifications: Must be a current student pursuing a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a related field.

Preferred Qualifications: Political Science, Pre-Law, or Education majors preferred.

If you have any questions about this posting or working at NDE, please email us at nde.hrjobpostings@nebraska.gov.