Emergency Management Internship

Build a safer Colorado while building your career.

Are you looking for more than just a line on a resume? Our internship programs offer students a front-row seat to the critical work of safeguarding our communities. From forensic science to emergency management, you will apply classroom theory to high-stakes, real-world situations alongside the state’s leading public safety experts.

Program Requirements & Benefits

• Credit-Based: All internships must be taken for college/university credit.
• Commitment: Typically 10–20 hours per week (varies by division).
• Flexibility: Office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. Interns can set a flexible schedule within these hours to accommodate their academic needs.
• Compensation: These are currently unpaid positions unless otherwise noted.
• Perks: Gain practical work experience, access to state-level training, professional networking, and a potential pathway to full-time employment within the State of Colorado.

Colorado Division of Homeland Security & Emergency Management (DHSEM)

The Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) is tasked with leading the state’s efforts to prepare for, mitigate, and respond to all-hazard events. Established in 2012, the division consolidates emergency management and homeland security functions to streamline the state’s ability to handle natural disasters, such as wildfires and floods, as well as intentional threats like terrorism. DHSEM is organized into three primary offices—the Office of Emergency Management, the Office of Public Safety Communications, and the Colorado Information Analysis Center (CIAC)—which collectively provide technical assistance, state-wide communications, training, and real-time intelligence to local jurisdictions. By coordinating resources between local, state, and federal partners, the division ensures that Colorado communities are resilient and equipped to respond to and recover swiftly from crises. Its overarching mission is to protect the safety and security of Colorado residents through a comprehensive program focused on the five core areas of prevention, protection, mitigation, response, and recovery.

Emergency Management

The Colorado Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (DHSEM) offers a nine-month internship program designed to provide students with hands-on experience in the field of emergency management. Participants gain professional exposure through diverse tasks such as research, plan development, and grant administration while working a minimum of four to eight hours per week. To ensure a productive experience, interns are matched with specific projects based on their unique expertise and are paired with on-site supervisors who provide mentorship and professional guidance.

*Next expected internship application window: June/July for Fall internship opportunities.*