Internship/Externship - Public Affairs

POSITION:Internship/Externship - Public Affairs

LOCATION:Washington, D.C.

SEMESTER:Summer 2025

ABOUT NCSL:

Are you ready to join an organization with an extraordinary mission? The National Conference of State Legislatures offers intern/externship opportunities where you can use your skills, knowledge, and experience to truly make a difference. NCSL's mission is purposeful - strengthening the legislative institution. From informing effective policies and promoting communication among state legislatures, to ensure states have a strong, cohesive voice in the federal system, our team works in service of legislatures. And, with a commitment to constantly innovating all resources and services to meet the evolving needs of members, NCSL has earned the reputation as the nation's most trusted bipartisan membership organization for legislators and legislative staff. Our success in serving NCSL members relies on our team of passionate, dedicated professionals who work diligently to strengthen the legislative institution. Join our team and contribute to this unique, essential mission.

HOURS/PAY/BENEFITS:

Hours typically range between 15-20 hours per week during the school year and full-time opportunities may be available in the summer for up to 12 weeks. Intern/externships may be paid or unpaid depending on availability.When funding permits, NCSL will pay up to $18.81 p/hour on a bi-weekly basis. Many colleges and universities provide academic credit for intern/externships. It is the student's responsibility to contact their advisor and obtain academic credit within the institution's guidelines. Intern/externs arenot eligiblefor NCSL benefits but may be eligible for accrued sick leave.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

The communications team is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Public Affairs Intern to support our communications efforts. This role offers hands-on experience in public relations, policy monitoring, stakeholder engagement, and content creation.

SPECIFIC PROJECTS / TASKS:

• Assist in creating and curating engaging content (graphics, videos, captions) for multiple social platforms.
• Assist in drafting press releases, media advisories, and social media content.
• Monitor news coverage and legislative updates related to our focus areas.
• Support the planning and execution of NCSL's largest annual event, the NCSL Legislative Summit.
• Track public sentiment and media engagement metrics.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including policy, development, and digital communications.
• Attend internal communications meetings to report on media and social media performance metrics.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

• Exposure to brand strategy, content planning, and analytics.
• Learn and gain experience from our veteran communication team.
• Participate in NCSL staff meetings and take advantage of networking opportunities.
• Mentorship and professional development opportunities.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position is mostly performed in an office environment, on or off-site, with prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Team members utilize standard office equipment such as copy machines, laptops, printers, scanners, and smartphones. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR SUCCESS:

Qualified candidates should becurrentlyenrolled in a bachelor's degree or graduate program or in a short waiting period between undergrad and graduate programs. Candidates should possess excellent written and verbal communication skills, familiarity with social media platforms and basic analytics and an interest in state government and legislative work.

TO APPLY:

We gladly invite you to apply online for this role by includinga resumewith an optional cover letter byFriday, May 16, 2025.Learn more about working with NCSL by visiting our careers page:https://www.ncsl.org/research/about-state-legislatures/ncsl-careers.aspx. We are looking forward to receiving your application!

NCSL is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is committed to developing a diverse, dynamic team and inclusive workplace. NCSL does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, disability, or any other status protected by law or regulation.