Trauma-Informed Parenting Intern: Online Group Facilitation

Overview

This is a non-merit internship position with the 5th District, Department of Corrections. Interns work 1:1 with staff mentors for training and online group facilitation with individuals who have criminal justice involvement. Interns will gain hands-on experience in online, evidence-based parenting and trauma-informed education classes, group facilitation, and cognitive-behavioral practices. This internship is unpaid.

• Group Facilitation:
  Observe and co-facilitate virtual groups focused on evidence-based, trauma-informed parenting practices with adults. Help reduce domestic violence, intergenerational transmission of abuse and system-involvement, and behavior change.
• Case Management & Intake:
  Review case files, conduct client intake interviews, and maintain detailed case notes in the electronic data system.
• Collaboration:
  
  Communicate client progress, referrals, and updates with Probation Officers, Health and Human Services (HHS), and community partners.
• Curriculum Development:
  Assist mentors in revising specialized parenting curricula aimed at reducing recidivism.
• Compliance:
  Manage group dynamics, ensure compliance with policies, and facilitate skills-practicing for behavior change.

• Must be 18 years of age and have completed at least two years of college by the start of the internship
• Must be currently enrolled at an accredited educational institution
• Preferred majors/coursework include, but are not limited to, Child Development, Human Development & Family Studies, Family and Consumer Sciences Education, Psychology, Education, Counseling, Sociology, or Human Services
• Strong verbal and written communication, ability to multitask, and a professional demeanor
• Understanding of child development, trauma-informed and evidence-based parenting practices, strict adherence to confidentiality, and comfort working within a criminal justice environment
• Comfortable working in a criminal justice environment

• Hours:
  
  Flexible based on student needs
• Location:
  
  Des Moines
• Start Date:
  
  September 2026
• Pay:
  Unpaid (professional experience)
• Final date to receive applications:
  August 3, 2026

The State of Iowa participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. New hires will be verified through the E-Verify system within the required timeframe. The State of Iowa complies with federal Right to Work laws. For more information, visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

Applicants for positions in this class must be currently enrolled students in a degree program at an accredited educational institution, as determined by the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.