The Office of Data and Innovation (ODI) is at the forefront of transforming public service and operations within Salt Lake County. Our Vision is to inspire innovation to improve county operations and Our Mission is to transform the County into a responsive, efficient, and forward-thinking organization through performance management, data, and innovation. We achieve this by partnering with various county agencies, providing consultation, and designing effective solutions aimed at enhancing processes and service delivery. Currently, we are offering an exciting internship opportunity for individuals passionate about innovation, design, and making a significant impact in government operations.

As an Innovation & Design Specialist Intern, you will play a crucial role in supporting ODI and its partner agencies in the research, development, and implementation of innovative solutions with a strong emphasis on UX/UI principles. This position is ideal for candidates who are eager to delve into government processes, contribute to meaningful process improvements, and are driven by a desire to create user-centered designs that enhance public service delivery.
Internship Benefits:

• Gain hands-on experience in a real-world setting, working on projects that have a tangible impact on public services.
• Develop a deep understanding of government processes and how to navigate and improve them.
• Acquire valuable skills in UX/UI design, research, and innovation within a government context.
• Complete the internship with several portfolio-worthy projects demonstrating your ability to innovate and make data-driven decisions.

Work may be in-office or fully remote at the candidate’s preference, and primarily Monday through Friday with flexible hours to accommodate a school schedule. Applicants must be currently pursuing a degree (second-year status and above OR graduate student) or recently graduated from a university/college. The ideal candidate will be available through two consecutive semesters, beginning in June and completing in December.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Collaborate with ODI and partner agencies to identify opportunities for process improvements and innovative solutions.
• Conduct comprehensive research and analysis to understand user needs, preferences, and pain points.
• Assist in designing and prototyping user interfaces and experiences that meet the identified needs, are intuitive, and improve user interaction.
• Participate in design thinking workshops and brainstorming sessions to generate innovative ideas and solutions.
• Conduct user testing and gather feedback to refine and improve designs and solutions.
• Work on a wide variety of projects, gaining exposure to different aspects of government operations and service delivery.
• Contribute to the creation of documentation and reports that capture research findings, design rationales, and project outcomes.
• Participate in professional development programs offered by Intern Program Managers.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to complete tasks under deadlines while managing multiple projects.
• Motivated, creative, detail-oriented, adaptable, and dependable.
• Self-motivated team player who also excels as an individual contributor.
• Willing to familiarize themselves with the functions of the various branches of county government before starting the internship.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• A strong interest in government operations, process improvement, and user-centered design.
• Basic knowledge of UX/UI principles and design tools.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a team and communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Self-motivated, with a keen interest in learning and personal development.

PAY: $25 - $30/hour, depending on area of study and experience

START DATE: The internship begins June 3rd, 2024 – December 31st, 2024.

TO APPLY:  Required Documents

• Cover letter
• Resume
• Writing sample showcasing written communication capabilities
• Schedule availability

PHYSICAL ADDRESS
Salt Lake County
2001 S State Street S3-200
Salt Lake City, UT 84114

WORKING CONDITIONS AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Interns may work remotely or from the Salt Lake County Government Complex. They will be provided with a computer and an email account. Interns may be asked to attend meetings off-site, at other government facilities, or in the community.

PAID INTERN POSITIONS
• Are not considered merit employees.
• Are not guaranteed employment following their internships.

PAID INTERN POSITIONS:

An “At Will”, FLSA non-exempt employee who is not eligible for County benefits and who must work  an average of 29 hours or less per week or an average of 129 hours or less per month. 

• Must work an average of 29 hours or less per week or an average of 129 hours or less per month.
• Are not eligible for County benefits except as otherwise provided for by policy.
• Are not considered merit employees.
• Are "at will" employees who may be terminated for any reason, without notice, and without a pre-termination hearing.