Corrections Social Work Intern (College) - Unpaid

If you are a social work student looking for hands-on experience in your field, the Department of Corrections (DOC), State Correctional Institution (SCI) at Mercer is seeking a student currently pursuing a social work degree for an internship opportunity. This is a wonderful chance for you to apply your education and gain valuable experience in a real-world setting. This internship will provide you with a unique perspective and valuable skills that can help you excel in your future career. Apply today!

As an intern, you will have the opportunity to interview inmates and provide support for their institutional adjustment. You will also assist with any personal or family issues they may have, and help teach them skills for resolving conflicts. In this role, you will utilize a multi-disciplinary approach to coordinate treatment objectives to include programming, activities, counseling, and educational services in a manner that supports effective utilization of personnel and material resources. You will facilitate compliance and behavioral changes through the implementation of Prescriptive Program Plans, inclusive to expectations regarding work and housing, overall behavior, academic and vocational programming, and recommended programming based on needs and assessments. In addition, you will analyze inmate aptitude and interest tests, compile socio-demographic histories, and develop case records. With the information gathered, you will make informed decisions and recommendations for their rehabilitation programs and risk levels. Furthermore, you will be involved in the parole planning process and write reports to be presented to the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole. Your work efforts will play a crucial role in promoting successful reentry and reducing recidivism rates in Pennsylvania.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Full-time internship that runs from August/September 2025 to December 2025
• Work hours are 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 30-minute lunch (11:00 AM to 11:30 AM).
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Internship Requirements:

• Actively pursuing a degree in social work as a junior or senior at the time of application.
• Good academic standing (as defined by a GPA of 2.0 or higher).

Additional Requirements:

• You must submit a Letter of Recommendation with application.
• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

• A conditional offer of employment will require a medical examination.
• You must pass a background investigation and meet Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance requirements.

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.