YouthWorks

Berkeley residents have the opportunity to be placed into paid, part-time temporary internships with partner organizations or within the City of Berkeley. This comprehensive program helps participants develop skills in interviewing, resume writing, financial literacy, and employability while connecting with mentors from City government and local organizations.

Local organizations and City departments can participate as worksites, mentoring program participants while supporting workforce development in Berkeley. Potential hosts can email YouthWorks@berkeleyca.gov for guidance and next steps.

Sign up for the YouthWorks newsletter to receive email updates.

Interest Form

Please note that completing this interest form does not guarantee job placement. The deadline to submit the Interest Form is March 27, 5:00 pm. Late forms will not be accepted as we expect a high volume of applicants. 

Summer 2026 Timeline

• February 17 – March 27: Interest Form is live 
  All prospective YouthWorkers must fill out an Interest Form. All candidates, including returning candidates, will be required to fill out an Interest Form. 
• March: Interviews 
  YouthWorkers who are selected will be assigned an interview date with YouthWorks staff. Please make sure to communicate if you cannot make your time! Interviews take 10- 15 minutes. 
• April/May: Onboarding, Orientation, and Placement 
  YouthWorkers will go through an extensive onboarding process that includes a livescan, an orientation to learn essential workplace skills, and online training required of all City of Berkeley employees. All steps must be completed in order to begin employment. 
• June 8 – August 7: Work at Program Sites Begin 
  150+ YouthWorkers will be employed for a maximum of 30 hours each week at more than 30 different program sites throughout the summer. Roles, work schedule, and length will vary based on the needs of the different program sites. 
• June: YouthWorks Workshops Begin 
  Both participants and mentors will be invited to workshops. Workshops for youth are weekly and pertain to life skills that supplement their work experience at sites. Mentor workshops are discussions and topics pertaining to best practices supporting YouthWorkers at various sites. 

Empowering Berkeley for success

Placement process for selected applicants

If you are selected for a YouthWorks internship you will receive an email with next steps, including details about your interview and onboarding process.

Candidate interview

Interviews last 15-20 minutes and are required for all candidates. 

Required documents

Before starting, you'll provide:

• Valid ID (not expired)
• Social security card
• Proof of Berkeley residency
• Resume (required for returning YouthWorkers only)

Orientation & Worksite Placement

Attend mandatory training on workplace skills, professional conduct, and site expectations. Then, meet your supervisor, finalize your work schedule, and obtain approval from YouthWorks staff.

During your internship

All interns must attend career development sessions throughout their placement to enhance professional skills and prepare for future employment.