Intern, Development - Systems & Data Integrity (Summer 2026)

📋 Description

• • The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) is actively seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Development Systems & Data Integrity Summer Intern for Summer 2026. This internship is an exceptional opportunity for students enrolled in accredited undergraduate or graduate programs who possess strong academic records, keen analytical abilities, and a profound commitment to public interest work. As a catalyst for racial justice, the SPLC works collaboratively with communities to dismantle white supremacy, foster intersectional movements, and advance the human rights of all individuals. This internationally recognized nonprofit organization is dedicated to combating bigotry and oppression through a multifaceted approach encompassing outreach, public education, litigation, and policy advocacy.
• • This role is crucial for ensuring the reliability and accuracy of our development systems and the data they manage. You will be instrumental in supporting the integrity of our operational and development data, contributing directly to the SPLC's mission. The ideal candidate is someone with a passion for data quality, a foundational understanding of technical systems, and a desire to apply their skills in a mission-driven environment.
• • Key Responsibilities and Contributions:
• • Support the implementation and ongoing monitoring of robust data integrity checks, audits, and reconciliation processes. This involves actively participating in the design and execution of procedures to ensure data accuracy and consistency across various platforms.
• • Assist in the critical task of validating data accuracy, completeness, and consistency across both development and operational systems. Your contributions will help maintain a high standard of data quality essential for effective decision-making and program delivery.
• • Aid in the comprehensive documentation of data flows, system dependencies, and inter-system interfaces. This documentation is vital for improving traceability, understanding system architecture, and facilitating future development and maintenance.
• • Participate actively in incident reviews, analyzing system performance and data anomalies. You will contribute to identifying root causes and proposing solutions to enhance overall system reliability and stability.
• • Proactively identify and escalate any data anomalies, inconsistencies, or process gaps that may arise. Your vigilance will be key in preventing potential issues before they impact operations.
• • Support the crucial processes of version control and change management for system schemas, configurations, and associated data. This ensures that changes are tracked, managed, and implemented systematically.
• • Assist in the planning and meticulous tracking of technical projects specifically related to development systems, operational processes, or data quality initiatives. This includes helping to define project scope, milestones, and deliverables.
• • Maintain detailed and organized project documentation, including timelines, task lists, and regular status updates. Clear and consistent documentation is essential for project transparency and success.
• • Support the project manager by ensuring projects remain on schedule and by clearly communicating any identified risks or blockers that could impede progress.
• • Perform other duties as assigned that are reasonably within the scope of this internship, demonstrating flexibility and a willingness to contribute wherever needed.
• • Uphold the SPLC's Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) principles by actively seeking diverse collaborators and partners. You will contribute to ensuring that all contributions are aligned with the shared mission, vision, and values of the center and the department's strategic goals.
• • This internship offers a unique chance to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic, fast-paced environment while contributing to meaningful social justice work. You will work closely with experienced professionals, learn about critical development operations, and develop valuable technical and analytical skills. The SPLC is committed to fostering a supportive and educational internship experience, providing mentorship and opportunities for professional growth. Your work will directly impact the SPLC's ability to effectively advocate for civil rights and combat hate and discrimination.