IT Software Engineer Intern

Why it's a great opportunity: The Finance & Enterprise Services, Software Development Unit has an exciting software engineering internship opportunity that offers the chance to work with cutting-edge technology and much more! Interns also learn about management systems and contribute to critical community services. Our internships provide a fantastic opportunity to work on real projects alongside experienced developers and contribute to important applications. Intern projects are decided by the Software Development Manager based on need. Interns typically work on our core libraries and existing apps, such as the Assessor Treasurer's Information Portal (ATIP), Planning and Public Works (PALS+), and the Legal Information Network eXchange (LINX). The skillset gained during the internship allows our students to enhance their resumes and enter the career market with full stack experience. In today's highly competitive IT job market, the right internship can be vital to a student's success. Our previous interns have moved on to companies like Google and Facebook, as well as permanent positions within Pierce County!

Information Technology’s 130 staff are responsible for building, operating, and maintaining the technologies that power essential public services in Pierce County. We provide diverse technology solutions including commercial applications, geographic information systems, and sophisticated custom software, supported by a robust hybrid infrastructure combining both on-premises and cloud-based platforms, and all secured by a reliable network. Our team thrives in a positive, collaborative environment combined with continual learning and development to enable our highly impactful work. Join us where your contributions truly make a difference.

Why it's a great department: The Finance & Enterprise Services Department delivers enterprise-wide services that support every County department and many external partners, ensuring Pierce County operates effectively, efficiently, and with strong public stewardship. Finance & Enterprise Services staff provide a broad portfolio of high-impact, countywide services, including budgeting and performance management, fiscal services, procurement and contracting, information technology, general services, fleet services, and risk management. 

Employees have the opportunity to work on strategic, enterprise-level initiatives, collaborate across departments, provide the operational and technical backbone which ensures the smooth delivery of services across the organization, and deliver critical analysis and decision support that informs leadership and shapes County priorities. The Finance & Enterprise Services Department is focused on creating a culture where employees can help improve service delivery to make a meaningful impact on County operations and the community. The Department leads with safety, empowerment, and collaboration to create an environment where every person can contribute, challenge ideas, and continuously improve.

Learn more about the Finance & Enterprise Services Department here.

How to be successful in the role: A successful intern will have exposure and coursework in JavaScript, CSS, HTML, and code repositories like Bitbucket and GitHub as well as awareness of Agile methodologies. A positive attitude, willingness to learn, and a desire to help and support co-workers will be key. Training is primarily "on the job", and you will be assigned an onboarding partner as your main "go-to person" for learning processes and procedures. 
  
Our internship provides an initial training program to ensure a base level understanding of languages and applications as well as access to established procedures, standards, practices, and system documentation. Trough out the training process you will meet with your supervisor regularly to facilitate your success in meeting your professional goals.

Your future in this role: You will have access to professional development through robust online learning and other training opportunities throughout your career to ensure your success. This position has multiple career growth and promotional opportunities in Pierce County to build on a great career while directly impacting the communities in Pierce County.

Core daily responsibilities:

• Programming in JavaScript, HTML, CSS, Java/Groovy and writing tests. 
• Using Git and Jira in an Agile environment. 
• Reporting status at standups and sprint planning meetings. 

• Final year of education or recent graduate of a Bachelor's program.
• 2 years of experience in Java / JavaScript or related language. 
• A resume and cover letter are required for this position.

As a condition of employment, the applicant will need to authorize and complete a background check. Information received from the background check is reviewed case-by-case and will not necessarily remove an applicant from consideration.

To be considered for this opportunity please:

• Complete and submit a detailed online Pierce County Employment Application by selecting "APPLY" above or go to:   www.piercecountywa.org/jobs. 
• If you have a question about this opportunity, please email the Recruitment Team at [email protected] and specify the Job Number and Title. 
• If you do not have internet access, you may visit your local public library or any WorkSource location and use their computers.
• Individuals needing accommodation in the application, testing process or need this job announcement in an alternative format may call Human Resources at (253) 798-7480, at least two days prior to the need.  

This is a competitive selection process. Your application will be reviewed and evaluated for the quality and quantity of education/experience in the areas listed. Applicants whose qualifications most closely correspond to the County's needs will be eligible for further consideration. Notification of application status normally occurs 2 to 3 weeks after the closing date. Short notice may be given to applicants to participate in further selection processes which may include assessments, phone screen, and interviews.

Pierce County is committed to fostering a Welcoming Workplace where employees are supported, respected, and able to thrive. We believe a strong public workforce is representative of the community it serves and that fair and just access to opportunity strengthens public service.  

Guided by the County Executive’s Forward Together mission, Pierce County works to build communities that are safe, welcoming, and connected. This same commitment shapes how we recruit, develop, and retain our employees. County employees make a direct and visible impact in the lives of residents every day, and we invite you to join us in helping keep Pierce County a place people are proud to call home.