Local Government Internship Program - Interns

Applications for the 2026 program will open January 7, 2026 and close at 9:00 AM PST on February 17, 2026.

• Host communities will be announced on January 7, 2026. Be sure to review the host profiles before you apply.

For questions about the program, please contact Teressa Johnson, Program Manager, at tjohnson@lgma.ca.

For issues with the application form, please contact office@lgma.ca.

For other local government internship opportunities visit Northern Development Initiative Trust.

2026/27 Host Communities

A rewarding career in local government is calling you!

Paid internships for new and recent post-secondary graduates to train and commence careers in local government.

If you’re drawn to a role where you can make a meaningful impact, one that is both challenging and rewarding, a career in local government could be a great fit. Local government is the level of government that most directly affects residents’ daily lives. Professionals in this sector come from diverse educational backgrounds and bring a wide range of skills to serve communities across British Columbia in varied roles.

The 12-month internship offers participants the opportunity to work under the mentorship of experienced local government professionals, gain a comprehensive understanding of how local government operates, and develop skills and competencies needed to launch a successful career in the field. 

Overview:

The Local Government Internship provides new and recent post-secondary graduates with an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience and mentorship while building a strong professional network in local government. Interns will engage in areas such as policy development, management, operations, and administration. They will receive a competitive salary along with financial support for professional development to further build their skills and competencies. Throughout the program, interns will rotate through various departments within their host local government, gaining a broad understanding of multiple aspects of local government administration.

Examples of activities as an intern include, but are not limited to:

• Conduct research in support of the development or revision of bylaws, policies, or other projects
• Develop requests for decision packages and present them to Council/Board and/or committees
• Participate in meetings with management and community partners 
• Assist with public engagement initiatives and support local government communications
• Lead and manage projects
• Participate in job shadowing activities to increase knowledge of various functional areas in local government 

Perks of a local government internship include:

• Local governments will provide 12 months of hands-on work experience, professional development, and mentorship
• Interns will build a strong foundation for a career in local government while contributing fresh, innovative ideas to help address complex challenges
• Work under the guidance of a senior local government professional to gain a deep understanding of local government operations and develop essential skills and competencies
• Receive a competitive salary along with financial support for professional development opportunities
• Expand your professional network within the local government sector
• Participate in targeted training sessions to enhance your knowledge of local government practices and to further develop skills and competencies
• Fast-track your local government career
• Complete work in policy, operations, administration, financial management, land use planning, emergency operations, human resources, etc.