Organization Overview

CSEA is one of New York’s largest, most influential unions, uniting more than 250,000 workers who deliver vital public services across the state. As members we come together with our collective strength, to build power and improve our lives on and off work. When we stand together, we have the power to speak up, protect what matters, and create real change in our workplaces and communities.

State Operations Intern

The State Operations Intern will shadow the Contract Administration Specialist team at time and attendance hearings and other cases, labor management meetings, agency conferences, and learn how to process and evaluate the merit of grievances. There is also potential to attend different region office staff meeting visits with the Contract Administration Specialist throughout the state.

The Ideal candidate is a current undergraduate/graduate student majoring in labor studies, political science, public policy, legal studies, journalism or business administration. Must be a good listener, organized, curious by nature, have strong people and communication skills, and be a proficient writer.

 
Travel may be required.

Program Summary

CSEA is offering multiple paid summer internships opportunities in various departments throughout the organization. The internship program will be delivered through both practical hands-on experience that shows the different ways a union works for its members and collaborative educational sessions. Internship participants will not only learn about the labor movement and unions but will also have the opportunity to reflect on their perception about unions and how it has evolved throughout their time in the program.

Program Requirements

• You must be either a current undergraduate or graduate student.
• You must be eligible to work in the United States
• The internship program will run for 10 weeks starting May 26^th, 2026, through July 31^st, 2026. All interns for the Summer 2026 must participate in all 10 weeks of the program.
• This is a paid ($22/hr.) full-time position that takes place Monday through Friday for a minimum of 10 weeks. (Some interns may have the option to stay longer depending on the department’s needs)
• While the internship program is based out of our headquarters in downtown Albany, New York, travel throughout the state may be required depending on the department you are placed in.

Application Process

Please apply to your department of interest by March 15^th, 2026. Candidates being considered for selection will be interviewed on April 2^nd and April 3^rd , 2026. After creating a profile on our recruitment website, be sure to upload the documents listed below in the Documents section of your profile.

• Resume
• Transcript
• Cover letter that tells us something about yourself, your career goals, and answers the following question:

Good or bad, what is one thing that you know about Labor Unions or the Labor Movement? (Don’t worry, it’s not a trick. We want your honest feedback!)

CSEA is an Equal Opportunity Employer.