Budget and Policy Intern

CITY OF ELKHART: JOB DESCRIPTION

POSITION: Budget and Policy Intern
DIVISION: Mayor’s Office
STATUS: Internship (May to September)
CATEGORY: Hourly, $20
FLSA: Non-Exempt
REPORTS TO: Chief of Staff

This position is 25 hours per week, Monday through Friday, with flexible scheduling available within standard City business hours (8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

JOB SUMMARY
The Budget and Policy Intern supports the Office of the Chief of Staff and the Controller’s Office in preparation of the 2027 municipal budget. This role offers hands-on experience in public sector finance, including data analysis, revenue and expenditure forecasting, and evaluation of cost-saving and revenue enhancement strategies.


PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with revenue and expenditure forecasting for the 2027 budget
• Prepare and maintain budget spreadsheets and supporting documentation
• Compile, clean, and analyze financial and operational data from multiple sources
• Support development of budget scenarios and projections
• Conduct research and analysis on potential revenue enhancements and cost-saving strategies
• Assist in preparing reports, presentations, and briefing materials for leadership
• Perform data validation and ensure accuracy of financial information

EXPERIENCE AND LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
 

• Provide general administrative and project support to the Chief of Staff and Controller’s Office
• Attend internal meetings and take notes or summarize key takeaways as needed
• Support special projects related to budgeting, financial planning, and policy analysis
• Perform other duties as assigned

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Current junior, senior, or graduate student pursuing a degree in business, public policy, finance, economics, or a closely related field.
• Prior coursework or experience in budgeting, data analysis, finance, or public administration is preferred.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS,  AND ABILITIES REQUIRED

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including working with large datasets and using pivot tables
• Analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a professional environment

PHYSICAL, MENTAL, AND VISUAL SKILLS
Normal skills as required in the performance of department duties

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work environment is often fast-paced and can be demanding.
• Must be able to work under periodic adverse or stressful conditions.

DRUG TEST REQUIRED
The City of Elkhart is a Drug Free Workplace.  Therefore, a post offer, pre-employment drug screen is required.  Random drug testing may be conducted after employment.


POLICY STATEMENT
The incumbent is required to possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities, and the physical, mental, and visual skills described in this job description to perform the principal duties, responsibilities and essential job functions.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the incumbent.  Principal duties and responsibilities are intended to describe those functions that are essential to the performance of this job and “other” duties and responsibilities include those that are considered incidental or secondary to the overall purpose of this job.
This job description does not state or imply that the above are the only duties and responsibilities assigned to this position.  Employee holding this position will be required to perform any other job-related duties as requested by the Mayor.  All requirements are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with a disability.