LBPSC Cohort
Public Service Corps Internship Supports Career Readiness and More
By Staff Writer
Published on Wed, Jun 4, 2025

Long Beach is looking for its next group of future public servants as part of the Public Service Corps (PSC) internship program. With this new cohort the City will have welcomed in over 100 program participants in the first two years since the program launched. The PSC is a great example of how the City is focused on creating opportunities for young people in our community.

During the month of June, the city is accepting applications from local college students and recent graduates ages 18 to 30 to experience hands-on government work while building professional skills. PSC participants earn $22 per hour and may work up to 800 hours during the 2025-2026 school year.

The program offers college seniors and recent graduates real-world experience and a pathway into public service careers. Participants work directly in City Hall, making contributions to their community while learning from experienced professionals.

The City wants Long Beach locals to apply, prioritizing applications from senior-level students at Cal State Long Beach or Cal State Dominguez Hills, students completing career technical programs at Long Beach City College, Long Beach residents and individuals who face barriers to employment.

LBPSC Culmination Reception
LBPSC Culmination Reception

During their time with the city, PSC members engage in professional development workshops that cover budgeting, community engagement, crisis management, sustainability, ethics and policy. The workshops provide organizational knowledge that participants can use throughout their careers, regardless of their chosen field.

Career support also includes job counseling, help finding permanent employment and access to industry-recognized training programs. The goal is to ensure members leave with both experience and clear next steps for their professional future.

The program extends support beyond career readiness by providing transportation assistance, clothing vouchers, rental help and utility payment assistance allowing participants to focus on their professional development without worrying about basic needs.

PSC graduates receive hiring preference for city jobs through the Long Beach Jobs Promise, creating a direct pipeline from internship to permanent employment for those interested in continuing their public service careers.

The program is in partnership with California Volunteers, part of the state's #CaliforniansForAll Youth Jobs Corps initiative. It launched in November 2023 with 50 students, followed by 49 participants in December 2024 with the goal of bringing new talent to the city and the community. Each year, PSC members bring amazing energy and fresh ideas to city departments while gaining professional experience.

To learn more, or to apply, visit longbeach.gov/psc or call the LBWIN Youth Career Services Center at 562.570.4700. Applications must be submitted by Monday, June 30, 2025.

Long Beach is looking for its next group of future public servants as part of the Public Service Corps (PSC) internship program.