Internship Opportunities in Tucson

The IRC’s US offices offer a variety of internship opportunities throughout the year. Prospective interns should be currently enrolled in an educational institution or within 6 months of graduation and are required to submit an application and resume.

Internships at the International Rescue Committee in Tucson provide college students and recent graduates with opportunities to gain professional experiences and exposure to different fields. Interns learn to work in a multi-cultural environment, build professional networks within the community, and cultivate adaptability and creativity in a dynamic world. 

Please note that all of our internships are unpaid and in person at our Tucson, AZ office. There may be some exceptions for specific positions.

Current Available Internships:

SURVIVOR SERVICES INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: Survivor Services Intern on the Safety & Wellness Team provides comprehensive case management to victims of crime, victims of human trafficking, and survivors of torture living in Arizona. They will work closely with the program caseworkers in the Anti-Trafficking, Survivors of Torture, & Victim Services Team to provide culturally competent, comprehensive services to refugee, foreign national, and immigrant survivors. Additionally, they will learn how to provide trauma-informed, person-centered, strengths-based services that promote health and safety, inspire confidence, respects choice, and assists survivors towards self-determination as they become active members of their community.
• Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
• In this role the Intern will be:
  • Performing client check in calls
  • Working with clients in order to complete client surveys
  • Screening clients on the program's waitlist
  • Assisting case workers in supporting clients during appointments.
  • Completing case notes
  • Searching for additional resources in the Tucson area.
  • Assisting the team with additional data related tasks and documentation.
  • Affectively communicating with their Supervisor and team to complete all assigned tasks.
• REQUIREMENTS:
• Minimum Qualifications:
  • Pursuing an associates, bachelor’s and/or Master’s degree in social work, anthropology/sociology, international affairs, psychology, or another similar field.
  • Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
  • Punctual and reliable
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft word programs—including word, excel and PowerPoint.
  • Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, a clean driving record, and willingness to drive clients in personal vehicle
    • Consistent transportation and ability to transport clients as needed
  • Attention to detail and flexibility in changing tasks/based on client needs
  • Strong written and spoken skills in English required, Spanish and/or Swahili, Dari, or other languages preferred
  • Must be able to obtain a AZDES Level-One Clearance Card ($75), pass an internal background check, and register with AZDES CBC.
• Preferred Qualifications:
  • Database administration skills preferred but not necessary.
  • Prior experience and interest working with refugees and immigrants or knowledge in Social Work preferred but not necessary.
  • Interest in working with Survivors of Trafficking and/or Survivors of Domestic Violence
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 15 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • FALL/SPRING: Minimum 15 hrs/wk for 4 months and prefer to commit to 2 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

HEALTH ADVOCACY INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) works one-on-one with clients to meet their unique health needs while increasing refugees’ health literacy as they adapt to life in the United States. The Health Advocacy intern plays an important role in IRC's mission. The intern will partner with Health staff to assist newly-arrived clients to navigate the healthcare system, provide an overview of the health in the U.S. set and expectations of health-related responsibilities from IRC and the client, and provide healthcare orientation.
  • Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • In this role the Interns will:
    • Collaborate with health staff to provide healthcare navigation and health education for IRC clients
    • Coordinate scheduling, interpreters and transportation for all new arrivals to establish care with a PCP and follow up as necessary 
    • Serve as patient advocate, accompany clients to medical appointments, transport clients for lab work and other diagnostic testing, and report follow-up and referrals from providers  
    • Recording activities as directed and timely reporting to the Health Services Coordinator.  
    • Provide training to clients regarding U.S. healthcare, pharmacy services and understanding how to access prescription and over-the-counter medications. 
    • Assist clients to become self-sufficient in accessing transportation to medical appointments by providing trainings and assisting with applications to special transportation services as needed.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Pursuing degree in health sciences, public health, social work, or equivalent experience.
  • Experience with health education and preventive health training 
  • Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds. 
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. 
  • Understanding and ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding client information. 
  • Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, and clean driving record. 
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-semester commitment 
  • Preference given to multilingual applicants, especially those fluent in Dari or Ukrainian.
  • Preference given to Interns who can agree to a Summer and Fall Internship ending in December 2026.
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 15 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

INTENSIVE CASE MANAGEMENT INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The Intensive Case Management (ICM) Intern will address barriers to safety and wellness for especially vulnerable refugees, asylees, and other ORR-eligible populations. The ICM caseworker will be expected to provide strengths-based, client-centered case management to single-headed refugee households; survivors of domestic violence and gender-based violence; older refugees; youth and young adults without parents or permanent guardians; refugees experiencing mental health or psychological difficulties; refugees with physical disabilities or medical conditions; unanticipated refugee arrivals and secondary migrants; and refugees who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer (LGBTQ). They work closely with clients, colleagues, and external parties to develop service plans to meet individual client needs and preferences utilizing a broad range of financial, medical, social, vocational, and other services and resources in accordance with client eligibility and program requirements. 
  • Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Work with ICM Supervisor on program-level initiatives and community engagement efforts
  • Maintain and ensure up-to-date community resource database
  • Assist in planning and coordinating team projects, such as donation drives, supply drives or community events
  • Assist with preparing resource guides and program materials
  • Work with individual case workers in supporting client services on assigned caseload
  • Maintain up-to-date documentation in client’s case file to ensure services are properly documented throughout the client’s service period; document all services provided in IRC’s database, Efforts to Outcomes (ETO).
  • Support client calendar scheduling, including appointments and follow-ups
  • Assist clients in navigating healthcare and social service systems, which may include helping clients apply for benefits and attend and schedule appointments.
  • Provide clients with extended orientation on a variety of topics such as women’s health, navigating transportation systems, and navigating physical healthcare systems at the local level.
  • Attend relevant trainings and meetings at the local and national level.
  • Other duties as assigned.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Strong relationship building, diplomacy, and networking skills; ability to effectively build internal and external relationships.
  • Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multi-cultural environment.
  • Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to prioritize and manage time effectively.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
  • Fluent in English required, both spoken and written; proficiency in language(s) spoken by client group preferred.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.
  • Valid driver’s license and access to a personal, insured vehicle.
  • Availability for a minimum of 15 hours on two or more days of the week.
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

CASE COORDINATION INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The Case Coordination Intern assists the Case Coordination team as they offer short-term case management and crisis intervention services. The program works to connect clients to services that support their immediate needs and address barriers such as housing (eviction prevention, housing vouchers), referral to employment services, public benefit assistance, and connections to internal and external resources.
  • Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provide individualized support through direct services, referrals, and advocacy.
  • Input clients' information in database(s) and assist with tracking and reporting as needed.
  • Transcribe and accurately document case notes, actions, and tasks into internal documentation systems to ensure compliance and proper recordkeeping.   
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive client information. 
  • Develop resourcefulness and problem-solving skills to work independently in different situational contexts.
  • Use personal, insured vehicle to travel as needed throughout the service delivery area.
  • Other duties as assigned.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multicultural environment.
  • Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to prioritize duties and manage time effectively.
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.
  • Empathy and open-mindedness across a cultural environment
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Availability for a minimum of 10 hours on two or more of the following days:
    • Monday
    • Tuesday
    • Wednesday
    • Thursday
    • Friday
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy. As well as obtaining an AZDES Level-One Fingerprint Clearance Card ($70).
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

GENERAL CASE MANAGEMENT (RSS) INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The General Case Management Intern with Resettlement Supplemental Services supports the RSS team as they work to provide case management support services along with other services that address participants’ barriers to integration. These barriers can include social adjustment services, interpretation, ESL enrollments, daycare for children, referral to internal and external services, applying for public benefits, etc. Employability services within RSS are designed to enable refugees to obtain jobs within one year of becoming enrolled in benefits.
  • Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provide individualized support through direct services, referrals, and advocacy.
  • Input clients' information in database(s) and assist with tracking and reporting as needed.
  • Transcribe and accurately document case notes, actions, and tasks into internal documentation systems to ensure compliance and proper recordkeeping.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive client information.
  • Develop resourcefulness and problem-solving skills to work independently in different situational contexts.
  • Use personal, insured vehicle to travel as needed throughout the service delivery area.
  • Other duties as assigned.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Demonstrated success working and communicating effectively in a multicultural environment.
  • Self-starter with excellent problem-solving skills combined with the proven ability to prioritize duties and manage time effectively.
  • Ability to take initiative and work independently.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy in work product.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook); ability to use the internet and other digital tools for data entry, research, and problem-solving purposes.
  • Empathy and open-mindedness across a cultural environment
  • Strong organizational skills
  • Valid driver's license and access to a personal, insured vehicle.
  • Ability to obtain an AZDES Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card ($72) and pass an internal IRC background check.
  • Availability for a minimum of 10 hours on two or more of the following days:
    • Monday
    • Tuesday
    • Wednesday
    • Thursday
    • Friday
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

PATHWAYS TO EMPLOYMENT INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The Pathways to Employment Intern supports staff in assisting refugee clients secure their first jobs in the United States and guiding them towards successful integration into the American workplace. Interns will gain familiarity in cross-cultural training techniques, skills development and hiring procedures of area businesses.
  • Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provides direct and administrative services to clients in the following areas:
  • Resume preparation;
  • Online and paper job applications;
  • Job Interview coaching and practice;
  • Client transport to interviews and other post-placement assistance;
  • Research job opportunities;
  • Client file management;
  • Skill specific projects as assigned.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information 
  • Strong verbal and written skills in English
  • Punctual and reliable
  • Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds 
  • Driver’s license, personal vehicle, auto insurance, a clean driving record, and willingness to drive clients in personal vehicle
  • Technology requirements:
  • Interns will be required to use their own technology tools to work on virtual opportunities.
  • IRC is not responsible for any personal device expenses such as personal smartphones, tablets, hotspots, data charges, etc.
  • All personal devices must:
  • Be kept current with all operating system updates and security patches,
  • Use a password or PIN with a minimum of 4 characters to log onto smartphones and tablets and 8 alpha and numeric characters for a Laptop.
  • Have lock screen set to 10 minutes or less with a password required to unlock the device
  • Configurations must be set to delete all data or lock after 10 unsuccessful attempts to enter a password or PIN. Lockout period must be no less than 30 minutes.
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment

BENEFITS COORDINATION (CASE MANAGEMENT) INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The Benefits Coordination (Case Management) Intern will assist the Benefits Coordination staff with completing necessary administrative work for funding and compliance purposes, while learning first hand what our clients face when applying for services and benefit programs. This role provides hands-on experience in the basics of case management, as well as tracking and managing multiple requests from clients and case managers across different departments and stages of the benefits process. During your time with us you will learn how to accurately document and organize diverse client needs throughout benefit applications, gain practical knowledge of navigating the Arizona public benefits system, develop an understanding of the challenges clients commonly face, and learn effective ways to support clients in overcoming obstacles by accessing needed services.
• Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Transcribe and accurately document case notes, actions, and tasks from the Benefits Coordinator into internal documentation systems to ensure compliance and proper recordkeeping.
  • Assist clients with completing public benefit applications.
  • Contact the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) to complete client interviews and check the status of benefit cases.
  • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism when handling sensitive client information.
  • Support benefits staff in coordinating and tracking client cases throughout the application process.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Strong attention to detail for accurately documenting client information and benefit-related needs using Computer Skills.
  • Basic organizational and time-management skills to handle tasks at different stages of the benefits process and how to navigate state phone lines.
  • Willingness to learn and navigate the Arizona public benefits system.
  • Sensitivity, empathy, and professionalism when working with clients facing complex challenges.
  • Problem-solving skills to help identify obstacles and assist clients in accessing needed benefits.
  • Ability to obtain an AZDES Level One Fingerprint Clearance Card ($72) and pass an internal IRC background check.
  • Availability for a minimum of 10 hours on two or more of the following days:
    • Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 15 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • FALL/SPRING: Minimum 15 hrs/wk for 4 months and prefer to commit to 2 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment 

OPERATIONS AND SUPPLY CHAIN INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: The Operations and Supply Chain Intern supports Staff in managing inventory and logistics, as well as administrative duties as assigned. Interns will gain familiarity with organizing, collecting, tracking, and disbursing purchased and in-kind resources to refugee and immigrant populations resettled by the IRC. They will assist Staff in maintaining storage space, support procurement efforts, and satisfy recordkeeping and reporting requirements.
  • Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Provides direct and administrative support services to the Operations team.
  • Assist in managing the tracking, distribution, and organization of CIK items (ex: clothing, diapers, household goods, etc.).
  • Organize and operate the CIK room for client distribution as needed.
  • Data entry regarding CIK items and inventory
  • Place CIK requests with development for items needed
  • Assist with general admin tasks including, but not limited to:
  • Provide coverage for front desk operations to ensure clients and stakeholders are adequately served.
  • Other duties as assigned.
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Knowledge or experience with data entry and admin processes is preferred
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
  • Strong verbal and written skills in English
  • Punctual and reliable
  • Strong intercultural communication skills; demonstrated ability to work effectively with people from other cultural backgrounds
  • Technology requirements:
    • Interns will be required to use their own technology tools to work on virtual opportunities.
      • IRC is not responsible for any personal device expenses such as personal smartphones, tablets, hotspots, data charges, etc.
      • All personal devices must:
        • Be kept current with all operating system updates and security patches,
        • Use a password or PIN with a minimum of 4 characters to log onto smartphones and tablets and 8 alpha and numeric characters for a Laptop.
        • Have lock screen set to 10 minutes or less with a password required to unlock the device
        • Configurations must be set to delete all data or lock after 10 unsuccessful attempts to enter a password or PIN. Lock out period must be no less than 30 minutes.
  • Additional policy details will be discussed during orientation and training.
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy. As well as obtaining an AZDES Level-One Fingerprint Clearance Card ($70).
• COMMITMENT:
  • This internship is a total of 10 hours per week for 7 months.
  • Hours of coverage needed:
    • For Front Desk: Monday OR Wednesday 9am-5pm (7.5 hrs)
    • Half day options available.
    • For CIK room: Tuesday 1 – 5 p.m. (4 hours) and Friday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. (4 hours)
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment 

NEW ROOTS EDUCATION AND OUTREACH INTERN:

• OVERVIEW: We are looking for committed, inventive, hard-working, and enthusiastic individuals with interests in organic farming and community empowerment to fill our New Roots Education and Outreach Intern Role. The New Roots program at IRC is an initiative to support gardening, food security, nutrition, enterprise, and production within the US network of IRC offices. New Roots Tucson supports refugee food security and aids in their transition to the community through gardening, local food access initiatives and small business farming. 

  The New Roots Education and Outreach Intern position works alongside a New Roots staff member on site in the gardens as well as planning virtually and in the office. The New Roots Education & Outreach Intern will work closely with the New Roots Education & Outreach Specialist to develop educational resources for both clients and community partners. The New Roots Education & Outreach Intern will also assist in developing program outreach materials and content for the @newrootstucson Instagram page. The New Roots Education & Outreach Intern would provide support to increase the capacity of New Roots programming at IRC in Tucson.

• Please note this is an unpaid in-person position taking place out of our Tucson, AZ office.
• RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Collaborate with staff to develop educational resources for program participants as well as Community Partners
  • Develop program outreach materials and content for New Roots social media.
  • Help staff with ongoing garden projects at 3+ garden sites (e.g. planting, cleaning, weeding, general site maintenance).
  • Develop new infrastructure projects to benefit the refugee garden sites (permaculture infrastructures, murals, accessible infrastructure, post-harvest wash station improvements, compost systems, etc.)
  • Assist with preparation and presentation of farm and garden workshops.
  • Communicate with farm and garden participants about upcoming events and to share relevant gardening and farming information.
  • Assist in securing donations of materials and technical advice to support community gardeners.
  • Track inventory of seeds, tools, and materials for the program
• REQUIREMENTS:
  • Experience or demonstrated interest in food issues, gardening, garden design, or food security issues, preferably in a multicultural context.
  • Ability to communicate and work effectively as a team member in a multicultural environment.
  • Willingness to work outside in variable weather conditions.
  • Ability to meet at garden sites, primarily in central Tucson.
  • Ability to self-direct and communicate effectively
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality regarding client information
  • Strong verbal and written skills in English
  • Punctual and reliable
  • Technology requirements:
    • Interns will be required to use their own technology tools to work on virtual opportunities.
    • IRC is not responsible for any personal device expenses such as personal smartphones, tablets, hotspots, data charges, etc.
    • All personal devices must:
      • Be kept current with all operating system updates and security patches
      • Use a password or PIN with a minimum of 4 characters to log onto smartphones and tablets and 8 alpha and numeric characters for a laptop.
      • Have lock screen set to 10 minutes or less with a password required to unlock the device
      • Configurations must be set to delete all data or lock after 10 unsuccessful attempts to enter a password or PIN. Lockout period must be no less than 30 minutes.
  • Additional policy details will be discussed during orientation and training.
• CLEARANCES:
  • All offers are contingent on successfully passing background and criminal history checks as required by federal and state law or by IRC policy.
• COMMITMENT:
  • SUMMER: Minimum 10 hrs/wk for 3 months and prefer to commit to 3 full business days
  • Preference given to applicants able to make multi-term commitment 

Application Steps:

This is an unpaid internship but course credit is often available.

1. Get to know the IRC in Tucson and learn more about how you can be involved. For more information around what internships are available please email us at dakota.gouger@rescue.org.
2. Applications for Summer are being taken now through May 1st. If you are a University of Arizona student you can apply by clicking the title, which is linked to Handhshake where you can apply directly. If you are not a University of Arizona student you can apply by emailing your Resume and Cover Letter for the position you're interested in to dakota.gouger@rescue.org.
3. Internal review of application followed by an interview with the Department Specific Employee/Supervisor,
4. Receive offer and accept--conditional on background and reference checks
5. Clearance checks and criminal history disclosures
6. Apply for a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card ($75)
7. Volunteer Coordinator will work with you and the supervisor to schedule your first day.
8. Attend an orientation and training session to learn about office policies, confidentiality, and communication guidelines. You are also expected to make all efforts to participate in ongoing training opportunities.

Commitment

The IRC expects all interns to work 15 hrs/wk for 10 weeks during Summer, and 10-15 hrs/wk for 14 weeks during Fall/Spring (when classes are in-session). All internships take place during business hours (8 am to 5pm Mon-Fri) unless otherwise noted on the position description. More stringent requirements for availability or commitment may be additionally listed for certain roles. Examples: 3 full days, must be available Mondays and Fridays from 10am-3pm. 

Interns must be at least 18 years of age, be able to pass a criminal history check, and have authorization to work.

Intern Application Deadlines

1. Summer Interns: May 2nd
2. Fall Interns: August 28th
3. Spring Interns: December 8th

Additional applications for some positions are accepted on a rolling basis. 

Students seeking to receive college course credit for their internship are advised to apply earlier.

REMOTE WORK TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS:

Interns will be required to use their own technology tools to work on virtual opportunities. IRC is not responsible for any personal device expenses such as personal smartphones, tablets, hotspots, data charges, etc.

All personal devices must:

1. Be kept current with all operating system updates and security patches,
2. Use a password or PIN with a minimum of 4 characters to log onto smartphones and tablets and 8 alpha and numeric characters for a Laptop.
3. Have lock screen set to 10 minutes or less with a password required to unlock the device
4. Configurations must be set to delete all data or lock after 10 unsuccessful attempts to enter a password or PIN. Lockout period must be no less than 30 minutes.

Additional policy details will be discussed during orientation and training.