Intern Opportunity (Cowlitz Tribal Members Only)

Cowlitz Economic Authority (CEA)

Location: Hybrid for Summer Internship

Type: Intern/Temporary Employee

Start Date: July 2026

Summary

This internship with the Cowlitz Economic Authority (CEA) offers a thoughtful introduction to the work that supports the Tribe’s economic growth and long-term wellbeing. Interns will gain practical experience by participating in real projects, learning alongside staff, and exploring how economic development strengthens opportunities for future generations. This role is designed to help you grow your skills, understand the importance of community-focused work, and contribute in meaningful ways to the Cowlitz people.

A typical day may include assisting with administrative or project tasks, attending team meetings, shadowing staff to learn about enterprise operations, conducting basic research and analysis, preparing documents, and engaging with community partners or internal teams. Days may vary depending on ongoing projects, allowing interns to experience different aspects of economic development and enterprise management.

Cowlitz Economic Authority Objectives

• Generate revenue by reducing dependence on outside funding sources.
• Ensure Tribal resources are used and developed responsibly while preserving them for future generations.
• Promote diversification of the Tribe’s economic activities and identify profitable development opportunities.
• Develop and manage economic opportunities and implement successful Tribal enterprises.
• Maintain and operate Tribal enterprises such as Q’anápsu LLC and the Tobacco Outlet. This also includes exercising appropriate oversight of CTGA, which reports to our department and may be invited to participate in CTGA meetings.
• Increase employment, training, and economic opportunities for Tribal members and member-owned businesses.
• Develop a sense of entrepreneurship within the Tribe and its members.

Commitment Requirements

• Full-Time: Minimum 6-week commitment, 40 hours per week
• Part-Time: Minimum 10-week commitment, 24 hours per week
• Interns must meet all onboarding requirements including a background check
• Interns must sign an NDA to ensure that any confidential information accessed during the internship is protected.

Compensation

• Full-Time: $20.00-25.00/hour plus housing stipend, for ungraduated candidates, will consider high rates for graduate school candidates enrolled in relevant programs.
• Part-Time: $20.00-25.00/hour plus housing stipend, for ungraduated candidates, will consider high rates for graduate school candidates enrolled in relevant programs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with daily administrative and operational tasks across CEA businesses.
• Support enterprise activities and project-based assignments.
• Participate in job-shadowing and economic development activities.
• Prepare documents, reports, research, and analysis related to CEA existing and prospective initiatives.
• Attend meetings and contribute ideas supporting economic growth and enterprise operations.
• Complete assigned tasks according to established timelines.
• Engage professionally with staff, Tribal members, and community partners.

Qualifications

• Must be a Cowlitz Tribal member (required).
• Must be 18 years of age as of start date to apply.
• Must be enrolled in an ungraduated or graduate degree program in a relevant field or with 2 years of relevant work experience.
• Interest in economic development, general enterprise development and operations, and/or specific CEA businesses.
• Ability to meet required full-time or part-time commitment.
• Commitment to learn, take initiative, and follow instructions.
• Dependable with a strong work ethic.
• Committed to a collaborative team environment – we want to hear your ideas, questions and feedback.

Program Benefits

• Hourly compensation ranging from $20.00-25.00.
• Housing stipend for full-time interns.
• Transportation stipend for part-time interns.
• Mentorship and hands-on experience in Tribal economic development.
• Exposure to enterprise management, planning, and operational strategy.

How to Apply

• Completed application form.
• Resume (if available).
• Statement of interest including areas of interest.