internships


At Sun Valley, we’re committed to raising up the next generation of church leaders. If you feel called to vocational ministry but don’t yet have the experience, training, or biblical education, our internship is designed to help you grow in all three.

Through this program, you’ll gain hands-on experience serving those who serve the church while developing a deep understanding of ministry strategy, culture-building, leadership, volunteer recruitment and retention, budgeting, events, and more. You’ll have opportunities to lead both up front and behind the scenes, equipping you for the full scope of ministry.

We also offer fully accredited Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programs through our partnership with Kairos University, available to all interns. Sun Valley covers 100% of tuition costs, making it possible for students to graduate debt-free.

By the end of your internship, our goal is for you to have a clear sense of how God has gifted you, along with the experience, training, and education needed to take your next step in ministry and your calling.


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you will have the opportunity to:


  Attend a ½ day New Staff Orientation with the Lead Pastor and Executive Pastor of Sun Valley to learn about Sun Valley’s story, mission, vision, strategy, structure, philosophy of ministry and staff culture.

  Participate in 8 cohort gatherings with other interns led by senior staff to discuss and learn about our leadership culture.

  Access to Sun Valley all-staff gatherings, leadership trainings and outings throughout your internship.
  Access to weekly SVU (Sun Valley University) gatherings. Biblical and ethical training that Sun Valley provides to their staff as well as practical ministry workshops on weddings, funerals, mission trips, preaching, care and crisis, etc.

  Gain exposure to and experience learning how ministry at a large multisite mega-church happens. 

  1-on-1 interaction and coaching from a Staff Mentor at your assigned location.




types of internships

While all Sun Valley internships share a common foundation, each offers a ministry-specific area of focus. No matter which path you choose, you'll be introduced to the wide range of vocational ministry roles within a local church.

If you're unsure which area is the best fit, our team would love to help you explore your options.

Areas of focus include:
Communications
Guest Services
Kids Ministry (Birth–4th Grade)
Next Steps
Production
Student Ministry (Preteen–College)
Worship


time and finances

To fully benefit from the internship experience, interns are expected to participate in ministry during weekend worship services as well as throughout the week. Specific schedules and time commitments will be determined in collaboration with your assigned Staff Mentor.

Sun Valley helps offset internship expenses by providing a $400 stipend each trimester (January–April, May–August, September–December).

In addition, interns enrolled in Sun Valley University—in partnership with Kairos University—receive a 100% tuition scholarship. (Students are responsible for the initial Kairos application fees and the cost of books.)

For interns attending another institution (such as GCU, ACU, etc.), Sun Valley provides a $600 scholarship per trimester.

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Here are the answers to frequently asked questions.


Our goal is to help prepare you for your calling in ministry. Through the internship, you'll benefit from:

  • Personal attention: Be coached by a dedicated ministry mentor who invests in your growth and development.
  • A growth environment: Experience Sun Valley's people-first culture, strong leadership, and intentional development.
  • Real-world experience: Use your gifts to make a difference while gaining meaningful, hands-on ministry experience.

    • Interns gain exposure to a wide range of ministry areas, including Kids, Students, Guest Services, Next Steps, Creative Arts, Digital Strategies, and Pastoral Care.

    Internships are structured in trimesters—spring (Jan–April), summer (May–Aug), and fall (Sep–Dec). The number of trimesters you participate in will be determined with your mentor. For many of our interns, 2 years allows them to complete their degree program and gain the experience needed to begin applying for available roles.

    Not at all. Each intern is paired with a dedicated Staff Mentor who is committed to investing in your growth throughout the entire experience. You'll also serve alongside additional staff members, giving you daily support, feedback, and hands-on development.

    Interns are expected to participate in weekend worship services and serve throughout the week. Your specific schedule will be determined in collaboration with your Staff Mentor. Many of our interns work jobs outside of Sun Valley to cover their regular living expenses. The internship can work around a variety of work schedules.

    Yes. Interns are responsible for their own transportation to and from their assigned location, as well as maintaining a valid driver's license and insurance.

    Campus Team internships are available at most Sun Valley locations throughout the East Valley of Phoenix, Arizona. Central Services internships are typically based at our offices in Gilbert, AZ.

    No. While completing an internship at Sun Valley is a valuable experience, it does not guarantee future employment. However, interns are strongly encouraged to apply for any open positions and will be well-equipped through their training and experience.