Systems and Process Improvement Intern

Job Description

Fall 2026 Systems and Process Improvement Intern, Finance | Vera Institute of Justice

The Tone:
This is a seasonal/temporary internship at the Vera Institute of Justice, located in Brooklyn, NY, with a hybrid schedule. The Vera Institute of Justice is a 303-person organization dedicated to advancing justice, particularly racial justice, in the US and globally. This role is crucial for supporting the financial operations and strategic initiatives that underpin Vera’s mission by enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and usability of finance workflows through technology and process improvements. The internship is ideal for a finance or accounting student eager to explore the intersection of finance and IT.

The TL;DR
• Role: Internship
• Type: Seasonal/Temporary
• Location: Hybrid, Brooklyn, NY
• Pay: $17–$25 hourly
• Team: Operations Manager, Finance and Finance team
• Mission: Improve the accuracy, efficiency, and usability of financial operations and accounting processes through technology and strategic initiatives.
• Tech Stack: Excel, Power Query, Power BI, Python, Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude, ERP systems, SQL, Gemini

What You’ll Actually Do
• Process Analysis: Observe and document current financial workflows, identifying opportunities to reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, strengthen controls, or enhance usability.
• Automation & Streamlining: Research, test, and document opportunities to automate or streamline financial reporting and accounting processes using data and AI tools.
• System Enhancement: Collaborate with Finance and IT on financial systems projects, including ERP upgrades, data integrity initiatives, system controls, and user testing.
• Financial Support: Assist with core finance and accounting functions such as financial reporting, budget and forecast analysis, account reconciliations, and cash flow analysis.
• Reporting & Communication: Prepare presentations, summaries, and reports for the CFO/COO, Finance team, and other senior leadership.

The Must-Haves
• Background: Student pursuing a degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, Business Analytics, or a related field with a basic understanding of GAAP and corporate finance principles.
• Experience: Practical engagement with financial operations and an interest in technology, process automation, and the responsible use of AI tools in finance/accounting workflows. Ability to learn new systems and workflows, ask thoughtful questions, and work independently.
• Skills: Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and communication skills (written and verbal). Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office applications, along with excellent attention to detail.
• Bonus: Familiarity with ERP systems, financial reporting tools, or data/automation tools such as Power Query, Power BI, Python, or SQL. Curiosity about AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, or Microsoft Copilot and an interest in current trends affecting finance and accounting. Demonstrated interest or coursework in accounting, CPA preparation, financial reporting, audit, budgeting, or FP&A.