Internship Opportunities

Notice: As of March 4, 2021, Health and Human Services (HHS) is no longer accepting new intern applications for terms occurring in 2021. All available placements have been filled or are in the process of being filled. Many of our divisions are still responding to COVID-19 and do not have capacity to accept new or additional interns. Students who have submitted applications and are awaiting placement responses will be contacted by their selected programs by March 19, 2021.We appreciate your interest in HHS and invite you to revisit this page in the future to view updates regarding these special circumstances.

Internships are a valuable part of a student’s professional development, career path and future endeavors. Washington County Health and Human Services (HHS) provides opportunities to students by offering short-term learning experiences. The goals of our internship program are to:

  • Actively participate in the education and training of the future health and human services workforce.
  • Introduce students to health-related careers.
  • Support a diverse and local workforce reflective of our community.

Please note: HHS can support a limited number of internships. Applicants are strongly encouraged to explore other internship placements in addition to HHS.
 

Who is eligible

To be eligible for an internship, a student must be enrolled in an approved educational institution. Students pursuing an associates, bachelor’s, master’s or PhD degrees may apply. Internships may be part-time or full-time based on requirements of the internship and the student’s availability. 
 

How to apply

Internship applications are accepted year-round. As internship opportunities become available, applicants are notified. Complete and submit the application to hhs_interns@co.washington.or.us with these attachments:

  1. Current resume
  2. Names and contact information for at least two references, preferably a professor/teacher and/or employer. 
  3. Cover letter (optional)

Some programs may require an interview.
 

HHS programs that host interns

  • Accounting, contracting and finance
  • Animal Services (veterinarian technician students only)
  • Developmental Disabilities
  • Children, Youth and Families
  • Disability, Aging and Veteran services
  • Disease Control and Prevention
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Emergency Preparedness/Management
  • Environmental Health
  • General data and policy analysis
  • Health Equity and Policy
  • Maternal Child and Reproductive Health (BSN and graduate students only)
  • Medical Examiner’s Office (Email medical_examiner@co.washington.or.us if interested in this program. They have a separate application process.)
  • Solid Waste & Recycling
  • Women, Infants & Children

Questions? Contact Laura Duncan at 503-846-4915.