2026 Summer College Internship Program – [Ethics Department]

City of Atlanta•Atlanta, GA

23h•$25

About The Position

Established in 2003, the City of Atlanta Ethics Office is an independent oversight agency within the City of Atlanta government. Led by the Ethics Officer, the office plays a significant role in maintaining ethical standards and transparency in city operations. We provide comprehensive ethics training to city officials, employees, and contractors, ensuring they understand and adhere to established ethical guidelines. These training sessions cover a wide range of topics, including conflict of interest, gift acceptance, and confidentiality, helping to foster an ethical culture within the city's workforce. In addition to training, the Ethics Office provides both written and verbal ethics advice, offering guidance on ethical dilemmas and situations that may arise in the course of public service. This advisory role is crucial in helping city employees navigate complex ethical issues and avoid violating the ethics code. Moreover, the office is responsible for investigating complaints regarding violations of the Ethics Code. These investigations are thorough and impartial, aimed at upholding the integrity of the city government. The Ethics Office also oversees the City’s annual financial disclosure process, which requires city employees and officials to disclose any financial conflicts of interest. This transparency measure ensures accountability and builds public trust in the city's governance. The City of Atlanta Ethics Office seeks a dedicated and detail-oriented Summer Intern to support its Investigations, Advisory, and Business Team functions. This is a full-time internship opportunity for students interested in government ethics, law, compliance, training, and public service. The intern will gain hands-on experience in the field of ethics and compliance, working alongside experienced professionals. In addition to assisting the Investigations Team in gathering and analyzing information related to ethics complaints, the intern will also support the Advisory Team by providing research assistance, helping draft advisory opinions, and preparing ethics trainings that will be delivered to departments across the city. The Business Team responsibilities will include general administrative tasks, reviewing the Ethics Office’s internal policies and procedures, and assisting with the City’s annual financial disclosure process. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently or as part of a team as the need arises. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential, as well as a commitment to ethical standards and public service. This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the integrity and transparency of the City of Atlanta government while developing valuable skills and experience in the field of ethics and compliance.

Requirements

Currently enrolled in an accredited college or university degree program, with a demonstrated interest in pursuing a career in public service.
Strong research, analytical, and writing skills.
High level of professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as the need arises.
Ability to multi-task and manage several concurrent projects on defined timelines.

Responsibilities

Assist in gathering and analyzing information related to ethics complaints.
Conduct preliminary research on ethics violations and compliance matters.
Assist with case management and documentation.
Provide administrative support, including managing databases and tracking case progress.
Assist in researching ethics laws, policies, and precedents.
Support the drafting of advisory opinions and guidance documents.
Aid in the preparation of training materials and outreach programs.
Attend meetings and provide input on advisory matters.
Help develop recommendations for training and policy improvements.
Help manage financial disclosure collection and auditing processes.
Assist with reviewing filings and ensuring accurate recordkeeping.
Review and update Ethics Office Policies and Procedures.
Assist in preparing for monthly Ethics Board meetings.
Support administrative and operational functions as needed.