Spring 2026: Data Automation Intern (Unpaid)

IRC BACKGROUND: Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a leading organization providing relief, protection, and resettlement services for refugees and victims of oppression throughout the U.S. IRC in San Diego has resettled over 31,000 refugees to San Diego County over the past 50 years and provides numerous program services. In San Diego, the IRC opened its doors in 1975 and has grown to serve approximately 7,000 refugee and immigrant individuals from 115 countries of origin each year through 5 different departments.  

SCOPE OF INTERNSHIP: 

The Data Automation Intern will contribute to the operational excellence and innovation of the IRC in San Diego by supporting data management initiatives focused on data extraction, transformation, and loading. The intern will assist in integrating and consolidating datasets from various sources and building automation modules using tools such as Python, SQL, Excel automation, and API-based data connectors. 

The role includes automating recurring tasks, improving data reliability, supporting internal reporting needs, and participating in data quality checks for the Efforts to Outcomes (ETO) database and related data sources to strengthen data integrity and program reporting. 

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:  

• Interns will gain expertise in data management, automation, ETL workflow and performance reporting to support decision-making in a nonprofit focused on refugees and underserved communities. 

• Interns will improve their ability to manage and ensure data accuracy through quality control activities, while learning about CRM systems and information management used in the nonprofit sector. 

• Interns will practice designing and presenting visual reports to effectively communicate data insights to diverse stakeholders. 

RESPONSIBILITIES:  

With oversight from the Data and Emerging Tech Coordinator, the Data Automation Intern will: 

• Support data extraction from diverse sources, including file-based data (Excel, CSV), databases, cloud storage, and system data retrieved through APIs. 

• Assist in data transformation activities, including cleaning, structuring, and standardizing datasets. 

• Perform data loading tasks into internal systems, dashboards, or databases. 

• Build scripts to automate recurring tasks. 

• Support ongoing improvements to internal data workflows and documentation. 

• Assist in creating indicators, calculated fields, and key metrics, and in analyzing data for tracking program performance. 

• Automate Excel-based tasks using advanced formulas, macros, and VBA. 

REQUIREMENTS:  

• Must be currently enrolled in or have recently completed an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, or Master’s program in a relevant field such as Information Technology, Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related discipline. 

• Experience with data processing tools, including Python (pandas, numpy, openpyxl), Microsoft Excel (advanced formulas, pivot tables, macros, VBA), and SQL. 

• Ability to extract, clean, and transform datasets (e.g., reading/writing Excel and CSV files, merging tables, filtering, handling missing values). 

• Familiarity with APIs for retrieving data and basic data modeling concepts. 

• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively. 

• Willingness to learn about the IRC and engage in cross-cultural communication. 

• Currently residing in San Diego County. 

• Must pass the IRC background check. 

Compensation: This is an unpaid internship opportunity. 

Working Environment:   

The Data Automation Internship offers flexibility, with the opportunity to be 80% remote. 

El Cajon and City Heights Office hours are scheduled Monday-Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm PST. Selected interns can choose their hours based on this window of availability.