The Harris County Leadership Internship Program (HCLIP), led by Commissioner Rodney Ellis, is a summer internship for college students aged 18 and over who are interested in public service and leadership. Interns are placed in Harris County government offices and related nonprofits across areas like policy, engineering, communications, and youth education. HCLIP recruits students from diverse backgrounds to build real-world skills 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
• Matches interns to placements based on their skills, interests, and career goals — areas include policy, communications, engineering, technology, public health, parks, and more
• Assigns each intern a mentor from their host organization for guidance and feedback
• Offers professional development through workshops, lunch-and-learn events, and training sessions
• Provides networking opportunities through events, volunteering, and social gatherings
• Helps interns build resume experience and professional references
1. Check that you meet the basic requirements: you must be 18 or older and currently enrolled in a community college, undergraduate, or graduate program
2. Review current program dates and application details on the HCLIP website at hcp1.net/HCLIP
3. Apply and be ready to commit to the full 10-week program, working full-time (about 40 hours per week) in person
4. Note that housing is not provided — you will need to arrange your own accommodations
5. If you are an international student, make sure you have the legal documents needed to work in the U.S. — HCLIP does not sponsor visas
6. If you have special circumstances (such as being a post-graduate), contact HCLIP directly to ask about your eligibility
7. Email internships@cp1.hctx.net or call (346) 286-1962 with any questions
• Led by Harris County Commissioner Rodney Ellis, an elected official in the third largest county in the United States
• Built on 38 years of history through the predecessor LEE Program, founded by Commissioner El Franco Lee
• Funded in partnership with the One for All Foundation
• Placements include well-known county agencies such as Harris County Public Health, Office of County Engineering, and Harris County Flood Control
• Publishes internship newsletters (July and August 2024 and 2025) showing ongoing program activity
If you are a college student who wants to learn how local government works and build job skills, this free summer internship can give you real work experience in Harris County. It is open to students from all backgrounds.
