Internship - Social Worker, Austin Development Services

Job Description:

Internship - Social Worker, Austin Development Services

Description

JOIN THE CITY OF AUSTIN TEAM

At the City of Austin, we are more than just an employer-we are a vibrant community dedicated to shaping one of the nation's most dynamic and innovative cities. Our guiding principles-Empathy, Ethics, Excellence, Engagement, and Equity - anchor our approach in delivering services that significantly impact the lives of Austin residents. Joining the City of Austin means embarking on a purposeful career, contributing to the community, and being part of a forward-thinking organization that values every employee.

What Makes the City of Austin Special?

• Make a Difference: Join a team driving meaningful change in one of the fastest-growing cities in the nation.
  
• Diverse and Inclusive Workplace: Work in an environment where every voice is valued, and Innovation thrives.
  
• Competitive Benefits: Enjoy a comprehensive compensation package that includes generous leave, work-life balance programs, and extensive benefits.
  
• Retirement Security: Plan for the future with the City of Austin Employees' Retirement System.
  
• Sustainable Transportation Options: Commute easily with access to public transit and bike-friendly infrastructure.
  
• Focus on Wellness: Stay healthy through wellness programs, on-site fitness centers, and mental health support.
  
• Career Growth: Advance your skills and expertise with professional development and leadership opportunities.
  
• Modern Workspaces: Work in innovative and sustainable environments designed to foster collaboration and inspiration.
  

By joining us, you become part of a community that values its people and is committed to making Austin the most thriving and resilient city in the country.

Job Description:

Purpose:

Under general supervision, this position assists in general administrative or research functions to develop a working knowledge of a targeted area in municipal government related to benchmarked professional positions, performing advanced internship duties.

Duties, Functions, and Responsibilities:

Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned.

• Observes and assists professionals in the assigned department to learn about areas of career interest.
  

• Conducts research, collects and organizes data, performs analyses, and prepares reports to supplement knowledge gained through academic courses.
  
• Proposes solutions to existing problems and discusses recommendations with administrative personnel to acquire skills in problem solving.
  
• Is responsible for special projects as assigned.
  
• Leads, as necessary, in the coordination, administration, or monitoring of specific programs.
  

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised: None

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Federal, State, and Local laws and ordinances.
  
• Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods.
  
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
  
• Knowledge of statistical analysis.
  
• Skill in oral and written communication.
  
• Skill in using computers and related software applications.
  
• Skill in problem solving.
  
• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
  
• Ability to operate a computer keyboard and other basic office equipment.
  
• Ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
  
• Ability to create clear and concise reports.
  
• Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
  

Minimum Qualifications:

• Enrolled in an accredited college or university graduate degree program, with some advanced coursework related to the internship program.
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with individuals impacted by mental illness, substance use, housing instability, or aging-related issues, through internships, volunteer work, or employment.
  
• Understanding of social service systems and local resources, with the ability to make appropriate referrals and advocate for clients in bureaucratic or crisis situations.
  
• Strong communication and conflict resolution skills, with the ability to engage diverse community members in non-punitive, trauma-informed ways.
  
• Bilingual or multilingual ability, particularly in languages commonly spoken in the jurisdiction, to enhance service accessibility and cultural responsiveness.
  

Notes to Candidate:

Austin Development Services Department (DSD) assists homeowners, business owners, and contractors when they build, demolish, remodel or perform any type of construction to ensure compliance with applicable city and building codes.

Internship Overview:

This internship is part of the City of Austin Development Services Department's Code Compliance Unit. Student will participate in a new, hands-on program that supports the Austin community facing challenges such as mental health needs, financial hardships, or other barriers that affect their ability to meet local housing and property standards.

Intern will work alongside a licensed social worker, code compliance staff, and community engagement/neighborhood liaisons. This role provides direct experience in addressing social factors that impact housing stability and neighborhood wellbeing.

Key Responsibilities (under supervision):

• Assist with conducting psychosocial assessments to identify resident needs.
  
• Support the development and implementation of individual service or treatment plans.
  
• Participate in case management, including follow-up visits, documentation, and compliance tracking.
  
• Provide information, referrals, and resource connections for clients.
  
• Support residents in strengthening biopsychosocial functioning and stability.
  
• Assist in providing short-term counseling and support services.
  
• Document services and maintain records in accordance with HIPPA and department guidelines.
  

Learning Outcomes:

• Gain field experience in connecting social work practice with housing and code compliance.
  
• Learn to navigate interdepartmental collaboration between social services and city code compliance.
  
• Contribute to a unique innovative program that explores how social work can improve community outcomes.
  
• Strengthen skills in assessment, case management, and client support.
  

Schedule:

Monday-Friday (30 hours per week) with a flexible schedule between 8:00 am-5:00 pm. Some weekends or evenings may be required.

Payrate: $27.87 per hour

Location:

6310 Wilhelmina Delco Drive, Austin, TX 78752

Important Note to Applicants:
Please be aware that the Job Posting Close Date reflects the final day to apply, but the posting will close at 11:59 PM the day before the date listed. All application steps, including attachments and submission, must be fully completed before that time.

We also recommend that you save or print a copy of the job posting for your records. Once a posting has closed, it will no longer be viewable in the system.

EEO Statement for City of Austin:

The City of Austin will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. In addition, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions on the basis of an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals who are perceived to be at risk of HIV infection, or who associate with individuals who are believed to be at risk.

City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have a question regarding an essential job function, please call (512) 974-3210 or Texas Relay by dialing 7-1-1.

Closing Date/Time: 2025-10-20