Intern (Strategic Development) - Fall 2026

**Join Us in this Amazing Opportunity** **The Team You’ll Join** We are a mission driven community-based organization that serves member health with excellence and dignity, respecting the value and needs of each person. If you are ready to advance your career while making a difference, we encourage you to review and apply today and help us build healthier communities for all. **More About the Opportunity** We are hoping you will join us as a **Intern (Strategic Development) - Fall 2026** and help shape the future of healthcare where you’ll be an integral part of our **Strategic Development** team, helping to strive for excellence while we serve our member health with dignity, respecting the value and needs of each of our members through collaboration with our providers, community partners and local stakeholders. This position has been approved to be **Full Office**. - *If telework is approved, you are required to work within the State of California only and if Partial Telework, also come in to the Main Office in Orange, CA, at least two (2) days per week minimum.* The overall purpose and objective of the Intern is to gain work experience in the field prior to graduating. This is an opportunity to utilize and apply the skills and knowledge learned in the classroom setting and apply it in the workforce. The incumbent will be primarily responsible for handling department assigned projects, given a moderate degree of independence. You will frequently meet with supervisors to go over the status and progress of assignments. Under the general supervision of the Sr Manager II, you will assist with the program design, development, implementation and support of strategic initiatives, pilots and programs related to the department’s priorities. You will assist with the coordination and delivery of project plans and roadmaps. The incumbent will also assist in research and analysis for program implementation. Additionally, you will support daily operations and complete other assignments in the department. Together, we are building a stronger, more equitable health system. **Your Contributions To the Team:** - 95% - Department Support - Participates in a mission driven culture of high-quality performance, with a member focus on customer service, consistency, dignity and accountability. - Assists the team in carrying out department responsibilities and collaborates with others to support short- and long-term goals/priorities for the department. - Assists with department assigned projects. - Meets deadlines and completes sub-tasks of assigned projects. - Participates in meetings with the supervisor to go over status and progress of work. - 5% - Completes other projects and duties as assigned. **Do You Have What the Role Requires?** - High school diploma or equivalent PLUS enrollment in a college or university two- or four-year degree program, an accredited vocational institution or a graduate program required. **You’ll Stand Out More If You Possess the Following:** - Experience or interest in health policy or health care. **What the Regulatory Agencies Need You to Possess?** - N/A **Your Knowledge & Abilities to Bring to this Role:** - Develop rapport and establish and maintain effective working relationships with CalOptima Health's leadership and staff and external contacts at all levels and with diverse backgrounds. - Work independently and exercise sound judgment. - Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing. - Work a flexible schedule; available to participate in evening and weekend events. - Organize, be analytical, problem-solve and possess project management skills. - Work in a fast-paced environment and in an efficient manner. - Manage multiple projects and identify opportunities for internal and external collaboration. - Motivate and lead multi-program teams and external committees/coalitions. - Utilize computer and appropriate software (e.g., Microsoft Office: Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint) and job specific app…