Po'okela Internship Program | Department of Human Resources

PO'OKELA FELLOWS INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

PO'OKELA FELLOWS

INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

COLLEGE INTERNSHIPS AT THE CITY

Experience the world of public service through the City and County of Honolulu.

HANDS-ON LEARNING

Interns are directly involved in projects under the guidance of current City employees.

DIRECT COMMUNITY IMPACT

Make a difference in the community with projects serving the island of O'ahu.

QUALITY MENTORS

Po'okela interns learn from experienced mentors willing to share their extensive knowledge.

PROJECT-BASED OBJECTIVES

Po'okela Fellows are challenged with real City projects.

APPLIED KNOWLEDGE

Put your degree to work by applying classroom training to real-world situations.

JOIN THE NEXT COHORT!

For more information on the Po'okela program, see below.

Po'okela Fellows Intern

$19.50 hourly

SPRING 2026 PROGRAM:

January 7, 2026 – May 29, 2026 or

January 7, 2026 – June 30, 2026

The spring application period is closed.

SPRING 2026 PROGRAM:

January 7, 2026 – May 29, 2026 or

January 7, 2026 – June 30, 2026

The spring application period is closed.

SUMMER 2026 PILOT PROGRAM:

June 8, 2026 – August 14, 2026

The summer application period is closed.

SUMMER 2026 PILOT PROGRAM:

June 8, 2026 – August 14, 2026

The summer application period is closed.

INTRODUCTION

The Po’okela Fellows Internship Program introduces Honolulu’s next generation of leaders to the world of public service. College students gain exposure to the City’s departments and agencies, connect with City leaders, apply classroom knowledge to various projects and make a difference in our communities.

This paid internship program offers connection, talent development and mentorship. Many former fellows have transitioned to civil service positions and have become program mentors themselves. Be a part of this rewarding experience!

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS

At the time of application, you must be a citizen, national or permanent resident alien of the United States, or a non-citizen eligible under federal law for unrestricted employment in the United States
Enrollment in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program
Completion of 60 credits minimum
Good academic standing

PROGRAM DETAILS

To view the graduating 2025 program cohort, click here.

To view student testimonials and story from the University of Hawai’i News, click here.

HOW TO APPLY

The application periods for the Spring and Summer 2026 programs are now closed.

Check back for future program announcements.

CONTACT

For more information, contact pookela@honolulu.gov.