Are you a student passionate about global change and eager to gain hands-on experience in humanitarian work? The Care Usa Internship Program offers a unique gateway to launch your career in international development. As a leading humanitarian organization, CARE USA provides exceptional internship and fellowship opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students. These programs are meticulously designed to offer practical, project-based professional experience, all while contributing to CARE’s impactful global initiatives.
CARE understands the importance of networking and professional development. Interns benefit from comprehensive orientations and training sessions that delve into CARE’s rich history, its forward-thinking vision, and the diverse programs that drive its mission. These sessions offer invaluable insights from CARE professionals, providing a holistic understanding of the organization’s global footprint. Internship placements are available within the United States, at CARE USA Headquarters in Atlanta, and at various US field offices, offering a range of experiences within a domestic context.
Domestic Internship Opportunities at CARE USA
The CARE USA Domestic Internship Program is a fantastic opportunity for US-based students to contribute to global initiatives from within the United States. Located at CARE USA’s headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia, as well as in select US field offices, these internships offer a deep dive into the operational and programmatic aspects of a major international NGO. Interns are actively involved in project-driven tasks, gaining practical skills while working alongside seasoned professionals.
To be eligible for a domestic internship with the CARE USA Internship Program, candidates must meet the following essential criteria:
- Be at least 18 years of age to ensure a mature and professional working environment.
- Be currently enrolled in an accredited undergraduate program (juniors and seniors preferred), a graduate program, or a post-graduate academic program. Recent graduates within six months of the posting date are also encouraged to apply.
- For international students holding student visas, it is imperative to secure the necessary work authorization from their educational institutions prior to applying.
Alt text: Diverse group of students collaborating on a project during a CARE USA internship program session, fostering teamwork and global development skills.
CARE USA has structured its internship recruitment process to align with academic semesters, ensuring optimal timing for students:
- Fall Semester Internships: Recruitment typically occurs in August and September.
- Spring Semester Internships: Hiring processes are generally conducted in November and December.
- Summer Internships: Opportunities are usually posted and filled during April and May.
Prospective interns are encouraged to regularly visit the CARE USA Internship/Fellowship Career Site to explore current openings and submit their applications online during these periods. It is also beneficial for applicants who receive funding support or academic credit to specify the extent of their financial coverage within their applications.
Global Reach: The CARE USA Overseas Internship Program
For students with a specific interest in direct international exposure, the CARE USA Overseas Internship Program provides invaluable opportunities to gain on-the-ground experience in global development and humanitarian assistance. This program is strategically designed to cultivate future leaders in the international aid sector through short-term, immersive learning experiences. Fellows not only gain practical work experience but also benefit from professional development training through CARE Academy, CARE’s online university, enhancing their skill sets and global perspectives. The program employs a comprehensive curriculum focused on on-the-job training, personalized coaching, and formal training modules to maximize learning and skill development.
Placements within CARE country offices are carefully matched to align with the successful applicant’s academic background and expressed areas of interest. This matching process is ongoing, and applications are welcomed throughout the year. While the majority of overseas placements occur between June and August, opportunities may arise at other times and can vary in duration.
Important Considerations for Overseas Interns: CARE prioritizes intern safety and security, placing interns only in low to moderate-risk locations. University-sponsored interns must provide official permission to travel to their designated locations. Prior to commencing their assignment, interns are required to have proof of health and evacuation insurance valid in their host country (which may be provided by CARE) and must complete CARE Academy’s online safety and security course. Upon arrival in their country of assignment, interns will receive a thorough security briefing from CARE’s local safety and security focal point or a designated manager.
The eligibility criteria for the CARE USA Overseas Internship Program are tailored to the unique demands of international placements:
- Candidates must have secured financial support from their academic institution or another sponsoring agency to cover overseas living expenses.
- Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the country of their internship placement, adhering to local labor laws.
- Interns are responsible for applying for and obtaining their own appropriate visa for their country of assignment.
- Enrollment in a relevant graduate or post-graduate academic program, or graduation within the last six months, is required.
- Comprehensive medical coverage, including emergency evacuation insurance valid for the entire duration of the internship, is mandatory. Proof of insurance must be provided.
- Proficiency in the language necessary for effective communication and work in the placement country is essential.
Ideal candidates for the Overseas Internship Program often possess a combination of academic and professional experiences, including:
- Current enrollment in a graduate program in a field directly related to CARE’s mission and work.
- A minimum of two years of professional experience in a relevant field, demonstrating practical skills and knowledge.
- Exceptional time management, analytical, and organizational skills to handle demanding international assignments.
- Outstanding interpersonal and intercultural communication skills necessary for effective collaboration in diverse environments.
- Proficiency in a second language, particularly French, Spanish, or Portuguese, is highly advantageous in many CARE operational regions.
- Adaptability and the ability to thrive in diverse, multicultural environments are crucial for successful overseas placements.
- A flexible and team-oriented work style is highly valued, as CARE’s international work is collaborative and dynamic.
Alt text: CARE USA staff members in an overseas field office reviewing documents, highlighting the professional and impactful environment of the internship program.
To apply for either the Domestic or Overseas CARE USA Internship Program, interested individuals should visit the Internship/Fellowship Career Site and search for available postings. A complete application must include:
- A current resume or curriculum vitae (CV) detailing academic and professional experience, along with contact information for at least three professional references.
- A compelling cover letter clearly articulating the applicant’s specific programmatic and research interests within CARE’s scope of work.
- For roles emphasizing writing and research, applicants should also submit a relevant writing sample to demonstrate their abilities.
Due to the high volume of applications, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. If you do not receive communication within 60 days of submitting your application, please consider your application as unsuccessful. We appreciate your understanding that phone inquiries regarding application status cannot be accommodated.
Embark on a rewarding journey and contribute to global change through the CARE USA Internship Program. Visit our career site today to explore current opportunities and take the first step towards a meaningful career in international humanitarian work.
