Urban Scholar Internship-Law
Position Description
We are seeking Urban Scholars for the summer of 2026! The Urban Scholars program intentionally connects students and organizations in pursuit of an equitable workforce across the Twin Cities. This program will provide you with leadership and professional development training to help you grow into positions of influence, build your resume and work experience, and provide opportunities to grow a meaningful professional network. As an Urban Scholar, you will provide support to your assigned department or organization (32 hours/week) and participate in Urban Scholars Leadership institute (8 hours/week) for 11 weeks.
Click this link to hear from past Urban Scholar Alumni: www.youtube.com/embed/01dGkBdismM?&t=4s&wmode=opaque&rel=0
Eligible Students: Please note that this posting is only for those individuals that are currently enrolled in law school (generally, 1L or 2L). Urban Scholars will be open for applications through March 1, 2026. If you are currently seeking your undergraduate degree or a different graduate degree, please review the Undergrad or Grad job postings.
Required attachments; Your application will not be considered complete without attaching both of the following:
- Resume (including but not limited to: education and relevant course work, skills, languages spoken, unpaid experience, volunteer experience, work history, accomplishments, or honors).
- Unofficial transcript, labeled with your student information (i.e. name, degree, etc). Law school transcript preferred.
Optional: Cover letter, reference letters, and other materials are optional. Please complete your application prior to the deadline, as applications or materials after March 1st will not be considered.
Timeline:
- Interviews: March
- Team Matching: March-April
- Offers: April
Questions: email urban.scholars@minneapolismn.gov
Job Duties and Responsibilities
- Conduct research assignments as directed by departmental supervisor.
- Provide support to departmental leadership in the development and implementation of various special projects.
- Perform long term project tasks with an emphasis in process improvement.
- Improve technical skills including but not limited to Microsoft Office, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Assist with the production of publications and newsletters, contracts and other important correspondence.
- Accompany the division/department head to meetings. Take and transcribe meeting minutes.
- Attend Urban Scholars Leadership Institute curriculum, missing no more than 25% of scheduled hours.
Working conditions: Office setting. Some placements may include field work. Returning and new Urban Scholars will provide support to assigned department for 32 hours per week as well as participate in the Urban Scholars Leadership Institute 8 hours per week on Mondays.
Required Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Must be enrolled at an accredited college or university in a graduate-level law program; or finishing your JD in Spring 2026.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Must be authorized to work in the United States.
- Must be prepared to participate on a full-time basis (40 hours per week).
Background Check
The City has determined that a criminal background check, and/or qualifications check may be necessary for certain positions with the City of Minneapolis. Applicants may be required to sign an informed consent form allowing the City to obtain their criminal history and/or verify their qualifications in connection with the position sought.
Drug and Alcohol Testing
A pre-employment drug and alcohol test may be required for certain positions at the City of Minneapolis. Applicants will be required to sign a notification and consent form prior to undergoing drug and alcohol testing.
Selection Process
Interview candidates will be selected based on responses to your application, supplemental questions, and your attached documents.
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Understand, appreciate, and interact with persons from cultures and/or belief systems other than one's own. Demonstrate care and respect towards other people and their needs without regard for one's own needs and thinks about other groups who have a stake or interest in various projects, initiatives, or activities.
- Embrace team concepts by being considerate of values, opinions, and preferences of other group members throughout decision making and tasking.
- Show resiliency in the face of obstacles, setbacks and other sources of stress.
- Adaptable to changing conditions and recognizes when changes in priorities, direction or the pace of activities appear necessary.
As the largest and most vibrant city in the state, Minneapolis depends on purposeful, dedicated and innovative employees. Minneapolis has a large variety of careers for people of all experiences and backgrounds who come together for a singular purpose—serving the residents, businesses and visitors of Minneapolis.
The City of Minneapolis is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer.