2026 Social Work Intern
Social Work Intern (Summer 2026)
ABOUT THE INNOCENCE PROJECT
The Innocence Project works to free the innocent, prevent wrongful convictions, and create fair, compassionate, and equitable systems of justice for everyone. Our work is guided by science and grounded in anti-racism. Since our inception, the Innocence Project has used DNA and other scientific advancements to prove wrongful conviction. To date, we have helped to free or exonerate more than 250 people who, collectively, spent more than 4,000 years behind bars. Our efforts have led to the passage of more than 200 transformative state laws and federal reforms. Today, the Innocence Project continues to fight for freedom, drive structural change, and advance the innocence movement. To learn more, please visit www.innocenceproject.org.
ABOUT THE POSITION
The Social Work Intern works alongside the Social Work Department to provide support to Innocence Project (IP) clients, assisting the Social Work Department in serving as a bridge in their transition to life outside of prison after wrongful incarceration. These responsibilities may also extend to other Network Member Organizations (NMO) across the country.
In addition to providing client support and advocacy, the primary focus of this internship is to support the Social Work department in creating, facilitating and implementing programming and departmental initiatives. The Social Work Intern will also have the opportunity to work closely with other IP departments.
This position will be a 10-week paid internship with a maximum requirement of 40 hours per week. Duties will commence on Monday, June 1 and conclude on Friday, August 14.
All Innocence Project employees must embrace, respect, and value the rich diversity of perspectives and experiences of a diverse and heterogeneous staff. We recognize and appreciate that our work is better for having varied participants and thought partners.
We are interested in every qualified candidate that is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE
The ideal candidate for this internship is a detail-oriented individual who can work independently to follow research protocols accurately using a codebook (aka data dictionary) and understands when to seek clarification. Those who thrive with repetitive tasks, communicate frequently and clearly, and possess a strong work ethic will excel in this position.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Job duties include, but are not limited to:
- Provide social work services along with case management, including client advocacy and related support, in accordance with IP social work plans and guidelines
- Conduct needs assessment for mental health, substance abuse, co-occurring disorders, domestic violence and medical needs.
- Document findings in client records according to established protocol. Submit reports on clientele, behavioral health consultations, screenings, assessments and brief treatment encounters, as appropriate. May also be required to assist with board reports and other reporting requirements.
- Assist with developing curriculum for psycho-educational groups
- Assist with group facilitation working alongside social work staff
- Provide support to Social Work department as needed
- Collaborate with various departments on special projects
- Coordinate and provide logistical support for clients, special projects and IP events
Requirements
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
- Current enrollment in an accredited master's degree program in social work
- Solid interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships with a diverse range of individuals
- Some experience facilitating groups preferred
- Researching community resources
- Strong understanding of the impact of the criminal justice system and intersectional oppression
KEY COMPETENCIES + VALUES
- Demonstrated interpersonal and counseling skills with a non-judgmental approach
- Strong advocacy skills and a strong commitment to social justice
- Proactive problem solver
- Motivated and able to work independently and collaboratively
- Must be able to work with groups of diverse individuals in respectful, equitable, and inclusive ways
- Attention to detail
- Persistent, patient and able to multitask
- Enthusiasm for the work of the Innocence Project and for social justice, including a demonstrated commitment to public interest
- Shares in the IP’s values of accountability, collaboration, empathy + compassion, equity, person-centeredness, quality focus, and self-awareness
Benefits
WORKFORCE DIVERSITY AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
The Innocence Project considers the diversity of its workforce to be vital to our organization’s success in meeting its mission. We strongly encourage applicants from all cultures, races, educational backgrounds, life experiences, socio-economic classes, sexual orientations, age, gender, and physical abilities to apply. Individuals with personal connections to the criminal legal system are strongly encouraged to apply.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, it is our policy not to discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, familial status, marital status, predisposing genetic characteristics, actual or perceived domestic violence victim status, unemployment status, caregiver status, or any other category protected by law.
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS
To apply, please visit Workable. Upload a cover letter expressing your interest in the role and the organization’s work, and a resume titled with your name (last name. first name. cover letter/resume). Only applications with cover letters will be considered complete applications. Information submitted through this secure site is kept confidential. Due to the large volume of applications, we are unable to give applicant updates by phone or direct email.
**Applications for this position will be considered on a rolling basis until the post is filled.**
SALARY
$19 per hour for undergraduate students and $21 per hour for postgraduate students