Mayor's Youth Employment Program

Summer Internship 2026

Applications are now open! Deadline: April 3, 2026

Plan for Your Future

Meaningful Work, Impactful Future.

Take the next step toward your career with a paid summer internship designed to set you up for success. If you're a motivated youth looking to gain hands-on experience, the Mayor's Youth Employment Program is a great choice.

Israel, a participant in the Mayor's Youth Employment Program, poses for a photograph.

About the Program

This program is part of the American Job Center, which helps youth overcome barriers to employment and connect with high-quality jobs. Internships are hosted by City of Lincoln agencies and include leadership development, career workshops, and real-world experience.

What You'll Gain

  • Paid Internship: $16/hour plus a $200 completion bonus
  • Work Schedule: Up to 30 hours per week
  • Free Chromebook: Provided to every participant
  • Career Development: Weekly workshops, networking, and potential tuition assistance
  • Leadership Opportunities: Learn how city agencies operate and discover your strengths

Eligibility

  • Ages 16–24
  • Must meet WIOA income and barrier requirements
  • Must enroll in the YESS Program before placement
  • We welcome all youth, including those for whom English is a second language, individuals with disabilities, and those who have faced challenges such as involvement in the juvenile justice system.
Reem, a participant in the Mayor's Youth Employment Program, poses for a photograph.

Application Process

  1. Apply to the City of Lincoln job posting for the Mayor's Youth Employment Program.
  2. AJC staff will follow up to determine your eligibility for the YESS Program.
  3. Once enrolled in YESS, we'll match you with a City department that aligns with your interests and skills.

Program Timeline

  • April 3: Application Deadline
  • May 8: Enrollment Deadline
  • June 4: Program Start Date
  • July 29: Program End Date

Possible Placements

Examples of City agencies include:

  • Parks and Recreation: Assist with summer day camps and activities
  • Lincoln Transportation and Utilities: Create content for websites and social media
  • Watershed Management: Help with water quality monitoring and data analysis
  • City Clerk: Support office operations, data entry, and customer service
  • City Communications: Assist with news releases and public service announcements

Placements may vary based on capacity.

Heaven, a participant in the Mayor's Youth Employment Program, poses for a photograph.

Why Apply?

  • Explore career interests
  • Build workplace, social, and leadership skills
  • Gain experience that makes your résumé stand out
  • Earn income while making an impact in your community

Contact Us

Ronesha S. Love

American Job Center Operations Manager

Phone

402-441-7975

Email

rslove@lincoln.ne.gov

Location

American Job Center
1330 N Street, Suite A
Lincoln, NE 68508

Learn More

Internship Opportunities

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