HCLIP is a summer internship program led by Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis for college students aged 18 and over who want to work in public service. Interns are placed in Harris County government offices and local nonprofits, gaining hands-on experience in areas like policy, engineering, communications, and community affairs. The program welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and helps them build professional skills, grow their networks, and explore careers in local government.
• Places college students aged 18 and over in Harris County government offices and related nonprofits for a 10-week summer internship
• Offers internship pathways in policy, community affairs, communications, engineering, technology, senior programs, and youth education
• Assigns each intern a mentor from their host organization for guidance and feedback
• Provides professional development through workshops, lunch-and-learn sessions, and skills training
• Facilitates networking events and opportunities with public service professionals
• Matches interns to placements based on their skills, interests, and career goals
1. Check that you meet the requirements: be 18 or older, currently enrolled in a community college, undergraduate, or graduate program, and have an interest in public service
2. Review the current application on the program website at hcp1.net/HCLIP for program dates and how to apply
3. If you are a post-grad or have special circumstances, contact HCLIP directly before applying
4. If you are an international student, make sure you have the documents needed to work in the U.S. — HCLIP does not sponsor visas
5. Plan for in-person, full-time work (about 40 hours per week) — there is no fully virtual option
6. Plan your own housing, as the program does not provide or help find accommodations
7. Email internships@cp1.hctx.net or call (346) 286-1962 with any questions
• Run by the Office of Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, a county government office
• Built on the 38-year legacy of the LEE Program, founded by Commissioner El Franco Lee
• Funded in partnership with the One for All Foundation
• Placements include well-known county departments such as Harris County Public Health, Harris County Flood Control, and the Office of County Engineering
• Program publishes intern newsletters, including editions from July and August 2024 and 2025
If you are a college student who wants to work in government or public service, this program gives you real work experience in Harris County. You get a mentor, professional skills training, and a resume-building experience — all in a paid summer internship.
