Unpaid Rent Reimbursement Program Practicum

About the role

This is a non-merit internship position. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Join Iowa Health and Human Services' Rent Reimbursement team and gain hands-on experience supporting a statewide program that helps eligible older adults and individuals with disabilities access financial assistance through Iowa's Rent Reimbursement Program. This practicum provides students with direct exposure to public service delivery, eligibility processes, and customer-focused support while contributing to efforts that improve access to benefits for vulnerable Iowans.

Project Scope

Students will work alongside Iowa HHS professionals to assist with application processing, documentation review, customer communication, and program support activities. Interns will gain experience navigating public assistance systems, responding to applicant inquiries, and helping ensure timely and accurate processing of benefit applications. The experience is ideal for students interested in social services, public administration, case management, or government program operations. Information in this description is based on internal Rent Reimbursement processing and training materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Application Processing: Assist with reviewing Rent Reimbursement applications and supporting documentation to ensure completeness and accuracy.
• Customer Service: Communicate with applicants by phone and email regarding application status, missing information, and general program questions.
• Documentation Review: Support verification activities and document management functions within agency systems.
• Program Support: Assist staff with case-related follow-up activities and workload management.
• Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities to improve customer experience and program processes while supporting service delivery goals. Similar improvement-focused work has been highlighted in recent HHS internship experiences.

Learning Outcomes

Interns will gain practical experience in public benefits administration, customer service, and program operations within state government. Students will develop professional communication skills, learn how eligibility-based programs are administered, and gain insight into how public systems support older adults and individuals with disabilities. The experience offers exposure to policy implementation, service delivery, and community-focused problem solving.

Supervision

Iowa HHS will work with students and educational institutions to establish practicum goals and identify learning opportunities that align with academic requirements and professional competencies.

Ideal Candidates

• Enrolled in a Social Work, Human Services, Public Administration, Public Health, Gerontology, or related degree program.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Interest in public assistance programs and serving Iowa communities.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage confidential information.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a professional environment.

Application Process

• Interested candidates should submit a resume and brief statement of interest describing their educational background, relevant experience, and professional goals. Students seeking practicum, internship, or field placement credit are encouraged to apply.
• For additional information, please click on this link to view the job description.