2025 Allegheny County DHS Internship Program - Developmental Supports

2025 Allegheny County Department of Human Services Internship Program - Office of Developmental Supports: Spring & Summer 2025 

About DHS 

DHS is the largest agency in Allegheny County government, with a budget over $1 billion. Through community partnerships, DHS supports over 200,000 of our most vulnerable neighbors. 

Interning at DHS 

Are you a creative undergraduate or graduate student looking to make a difference in your community? The Department of Human Services in Allegheny County seeks individuals to assist vulnerable populations. 

We offer various opportunities in program administration and management, technology, analytics and data science, finance, human resources, marketing and more! 

Many of our interns achieve remarkable things and continue working with us after graduation. Join our mission to provide quality social services equitably! 

Why intern at DHS 

You can make a significant impact here. Interning at DHS offers a chance to make a real impact as part of one of the top human services organizations in the country. We seek innovators and compassionate staff to support our community's most vulnerable members. 

Our approach is innovative. Recently, we've gained national recognition for our innovative use of data to improve children's safety and prioritize housing initiatives. If you're passionate about using technology to enhance lives, this is the place for you. 

Supported by dedicated community leaders, DHS collaborates with various partners to improve human services. You will work alongside talented individuals and gain valuable experience. 

Many of our current managers started as interns here. This experience will help you decide if DHS is the right fit for your career, and having DHS on your resume is a great asset as you move forward. 

Where you'll work 

Most interns are based at our downtown Pittsburgh office (One Smithfield Street), South Side (Wharton Avenue), or North Side (River Avenue), but we also have locations throughout the county. 

How to apply 

Submit your resume and cover letter and answer a few quick questions about your interests. If selected, our recruiting team will contact you. 

Internship Eligibility 

Enrolled as a student at a college or university 

Can work at least 20 hours week/semester. (Up to 29 hours/week) 

Able to complete their internship at their designated office (currently, we do not offer hybrid or remote arrangements) 

NOTE: Allegheny County paid interns are required to fulfill the federal I-9 documentation. For a list of acceptable documents, please refer to page 2 in the link : I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification (uscis.gov) 

Compensation 

$15/hour  

The Office Developmental Supports (ODS) - July 2024 - August 2024 

The Office of Developmental Supports, guided by the Director of ODS, invites passionate interns to embark on a journey in the disability field. We are focused on two powerful goals: expanding our outreach to communities that may be unaware of the possibilities we offer and addressing disparities in our operations and policies to create a more equitable future. Join us in making a meaningful impact! 

ODS Coordinator Are you passionate about supporting individuals with Autism? In this rewarding role, you will: 

• Develop Community Resources for families and individuals with Autism. 
• Engage in Outreach** to connect with those who could benefit from our services. 
• Collaborate with Community Partners** to strengthen support networks. 
• Analyze Service Gaps** using data to improve service delivery. 
• Track and Analyze Data** related to service denials. 

We seek candidates with strong communication skills, writing ability, and basic proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel.  

Policy Specialist The ODS Policy Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring that communications, policies, and practices from the Office of Developmental Supports align with the high standards set by Allegheny County DHS, as well as our county partners, the PA Office of Developmental Programs, and all state and federal requirements. 

Responsibilities may include: 

• Review ODP bulletins and guidance, analyzing their impact on ODS, and provide updates to teams through written communication or meetings. 
• Assist in developing procedures to ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements, updating them as new guidance is issued. 
• Act as a resource for regulatory interpretation, ensuring consistent policy application and explaining necessary procedures. 
• Maintain all written Policies and Standards of Practice according to administrative guidance and office needs, including standardized forms. 
• Ensure notifications to service recipients and representatives comply with ODP, state, and federal requirements. 
• Identify additional funding and grant opportunities to help ODS innovate service delivery within regulatory frameworks. 

Ideal candidate: 

• Excellent written communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Proficient in statutory and regulatory interpretation. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects at once. 
• Knowledge of ID/A support and services is a plus. 
• Strong organizational skills for maintaining records. 
• Must effectively complete essential duties. Accommodations may be provided for individuals with disabilities as required by law. 

Location: Greentree Office, 110 Roessler Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15220 (Scott Township)