DHSS Social Services Technician Intern

Term: Summer/Fall

Recruitment #071125-INTERN-350700

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Introduction

Make a Difference with DHSS 

Our mission at the Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) is to improve the quality of life of Delaware citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. We prioritize personal and family independence by assisting individuals and families in a variety of life areas.

We offer numerous career opportunities and are dedicated to attracting and retaining highly talented individuals who are ready to make a difference in their community today. DHSS is a great place to kick-start your profession.

For more information, please visit https://dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/ today!

Summary Statement

This unpaid internship offers students or recent graduates the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic Social Services environment. Interns will play a vital role in front desk coverage, customer service, and administrative operations while developing a strong understanding of client services and public assistance programs.

Interns will interact with clients in person and over the phone, assisting with inquiries and referrals to appropriate resources in a courteous and professional manner. This role is ideal for individuals interested in social work, human services, or public administration.

Essential Functions

About the Internship: 

  • Greet and assist clients and visitors in a courteous, professional, and respectful manner, both in person and via telephone.

  • Operate a multi-line phone system to route calls appropriately and relay messages as needed.

  • Maintain a daily front desk and visitor log, ensuring accurate tracking of all client and guest interactions.

  • Provide accurate and timely information about available social service programs and community resources.

  • Perform data entry and maintain electronic and paper records in accordance with agency procedures.

  • Support mail operations, including receiving, logging, and distributing incoming and outgoing correspondence.

  • Complete clerical and secretarial tasks such as filing, photocopying, and preparing documents for Social Services staff and the Administrator.

  • Maintain appointment schedules and daily client logs using spreadsheets or tracking software.

  • Interview clients via telephone or in person to collect information and assess needs.

  • Assist with basic case work duties under the direction of professional staff.

  • Report facility-related concerns (e.g., equipment issues, maintenance needs) to supervisor promptly.

  • Use office equipment such as computers, copiers, and electronic benefits systems (EBT) with efficiency and accuracy.

Job Requirements

Job Requirements: 
Please attach a resume with your online application or use the resume tab in DEL to provide a detailed description of how your education, training and/or experience meets each job requirement including employer, experience/responsibilities and dates (month/year) of employment/training.

Ideal Candidate Qualifications: 

1. Currently enrolled in or recently completed a degree program in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Sociology, Public Administration, or a related field.
2. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.)
3. Organized, detail-oriented, and able to take initiative with routine tasks.
4. Ability to conduct trauma-informed, holistic interviews in a professional and compassionate manner.
5. Ability to apply de-escalation techniques such as active listening, empathy, clear communication, and conflict resolution strategies

Selection Process

The application and supplemental questionnaire are evaluated based upon a rating of your education, training and experience as they relate to the job requirements of the position.  It is essential that you provide complete and accurate information on your application and the supplemental questionnaire to include dates of employment, job title and job duties.  For education and training, list name of educational provider, training course titles and summary of course content.   Narrative information supplied in response to the questions must be supported by the information supplied on the application including your employment, education and training history as it relates to the job requirements.

Once you have submitted your application on-line, all future correspondence related to your application will be sent via email.  Please keep your contact information current.  You may also view all correspondence sent to you by the State of Delaware in the “My Applications” tab at StateJobs.Delaware.gov.

Accommodations

Accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities in all phases of the application and employment process.  TDD users may request an auxiliary aid or service by calling (800) 232-5470 or by visiting delawarerelay.com.  You may also call (302) 739-5458 or email DHR_ADAConcerns@delaware.gov for additional applicant services support.

The State of Delaware is an Equal Opportunity employer and values a diverse workforce. We strongly encourage and seek out a workforce representative of Delaware including race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression.