Human Resources Internship

Job Description

Job Description

Human Resources Internship (Unpaid) – Spring & Summer 2026

Your Mission :

To advance the mission and programs of the Animal Rescue League of Iowa (ARL) by supporting key areas of Human Resources, including recruitment, onboarding, and employee engagement. As a Human Resources Intern, you’ll gain meaningful, hands-on experience that builds your knowledge of HR best practices while contributing to an organization dedicated to helping people and pets.

What You’ll Do :

As part of the Human Resources team, you’ll partner closely with the Director of Human Resources and organizational leaders to support the full employee lifecycle. You’ll assist in recruiting top talent by posting openings, reviewing applications, coordinating interviews, and helping represent the ARL at career fairs. You’ll also play an important role in onboarding new employees, ensuring they have a positive and seamless start to their ARL journey.

What You Bring :

You’re pursuing or have completed a bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field and are eager to apply what you’ve learned in a real-world, people-focused environment. You’re detail-oriented, professional, and able to handle confidential information with integrity. You bring excellent communication and interpersonal skills, the ability to manage multiple priorities, and a collaborative, solution-oriented mindset.

Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite is required, and familiarity with applicant tracking systems or HR software is a plus. You thrive in a team environment, enjoy helping others, and value compassion, respect, and integrity in your work.

Working Conditions :

This internship involves primarily office-based work, including extended periods of sitting at a computer. You must be able to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally. While the position is based in an administrative setting, you may occasionally work in areas where animals are present, which could include exposure to allergens such as pet dander and dust.

Why This Internship Matters :

As an HR Intern at the ARL, you’ll gain hands-on experience in the core areas of human resources while contributing to an organization that makes a real difference every day. This internship offers a unique opportunity to learn from experienced HR professionals, develop practical skills in recruiting and employee relations, and be part of a compassionate workplace culture where both people and animals thrive.

Please note that this is an unpaid internship.

Monday through Friday availability