Government Affairs Intern Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of public policy and governance, the focus on Government Affairs Interns is more crucial than ever.

As the political landscape evolves, there is a growing demand for skilled and dedicated individuals who can navigate, enhance, and safeguard our governmental framework.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Government Affairs Intern?

Whether you are:

• A student or job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect intern,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate world of government affairs,

You’ve landed at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Government Affairs Intern job description template, designed for convenient posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Government Affairs Intern Duties and Responsibilities

Government Affairs Interns provide support to governmental agencies or private firms dealing with public policy.

They utilize their knowledge of politics and policy-making to research, analyze, and propose solutions to various issues.

They may also assist in communications, advocacy efforts, and event organization.

Government Affairs Interns have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct research on specific issues, legislation, or policy initiatives relevant to the organization
• Assist with the preparation of presentations, reports, and briefing materials for meetings and events
• Attend governmental meetings, hearings, or other events and provide summaries or analysis of the proceedings
• Support the development and execution of advocacy campaigns or outreach initiatives
• Assist with the tracking of legislation and public policy issues
• Help to maintain a database of contacts, schedules, and legislative information
• Perform administrative tasks such as scheduling, correspondence, and filing
• Communicate and collaborate with team members and other stakeholders to achieve project goals

 

Government Affairs Intern Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a detail-oriented and proactive Government Affairs Intern to support our Government Affairs team.

The intern will assist in research, analysis, and coordination of legislative, regulatory, and policy initiatives.

Candidates should have an understanding of the legislative process, excellent research skills, and strong written and verbal communication abilities.

This position is ideal for students pursuing a degree in Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist in conducting research on legislative and regulatory issues.
• Help in the preparation of briefing materials, policy papers, and presentations.
• Attend and take notes at meetings and hearings.
• Assist with the organization of advocacy events and meetings.
• Maintain databases and assist in data analysis.
• Provide administrative support to the Government Affairs team.
• Assist in the monitoring of policy and legislative developments.
• Help in drafting correspondence and other written materials.

 

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a degree in Political Science, Public Policy, or related field.
• Strong interest in government affairs and policy-making process.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

 

Benefits

• Hands-on experience in Government Affairs.
• Networking opportunities.
• Professional development and mentoring.
• Potential for academic credit (dependent on university policies).
• Flexible schedule.

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Government Affairs Intern
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. Some travel may be required for meetings or hearings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Government Affairs.
• Pay: This is an unpaid internship, but we are happy to work with your institution to provide academic credit.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Internship
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and why you are interested in this internship, and a writing sample to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Government Affairs Intern Do?

A Government Affairs Intern typically works in government offices, NGOs, corporations, or lobbying firms.

Their main goal is to understand and track government policies, maintain relations with government officials, and ensure the organization’s voice is heard on relevant issues.

They are required to research various political and legislative issues, track news and developments in politics, and assist in the preparation of briefings on public policy.

This often involves working with legislative and regulatory documents, which they analyze to understand the potential impact on their organization.

They may also be tasked with attending public government meetings, congressional hearings, and other events, taking detailed notes that can be reported back to the organization.

Government Affairs Interns often work on specific projects, where they are expected to meet deadlines and present their findings to their team or supervisor.

They are also responsible for administrative tasks such as scheduling appointments, maintaining databases, and handling correspondence with stakeholders.

This role demands a good understanding of the political environment, excellent communication skills, and an ability to analyze complex legislative issues.

Despite being an intern, they play a vital role in the organization’s government relations strategy.

 

Government Affairs Intern Qualifications and Skills

An effective Government Affairs Intern will possess the qualifications and skills that align with the role’s requirements, including:

• Strong analytical skills to understand and interpret policies and regulations, as well as their implications.
• Excellent communication skills to clearly and effectively relay information both in written and verbal form.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team, collaborating with colleagues to achieve common objectives.
• Good organizational skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines efficiently.
• Understanding of government structure and processes, with an interest in politics and current affairs.
• Research skills to gather and interpret information and data related to government policies and regulations.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and address challenges that may arise in the course of work.
• Ability to use technology effectively for research, communication, and presentation purposes.

 

Government Affairs Intern Experience Requirements

Typically, a Government Affairs Intern may not require any direct experience in the field, but may require a background in politics, public administration, law, communications, or a related field as part of their educational experience.

Students pursuing a degree in these or related fields are often considered qualified for such internships.

It’s crucial for the candidate to have a strong interest in government and policy-making, and to have an understanding of the legislative process.

Prior experience in student government, community outreach, or volunteering for a political campaign can be beneficial.

In addition to coursework and extracurricular activities, candidates might also gain relevant experience through previous internships or part-time roles in public service, policy research, or related areas.

Candidates who have excellent research, writing, and communication skills, and who have the ability to analyze complex policy issues, would be especially well-prepared for a Government Affairs Intern role.

Lastly, fluency in a second language or experience living or studying abroad can also be advantageous, as it showcases the candidate’s ability to navigate different cultural and political landscapes.

 

Government Affairs Intern Education and Training Requirements

Government Affairs Interns are usually required to be pursuing or have completed a bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, public administration, law, or a related field.

They must have a strong understanding of the political landscape and government processes.

Knowledge of or interest in law, public policy, and legislative affairs is often a prerequisite.

As this is an internship, hands-on training will be provided, but previous experience in government, policy, or legislative environments can be advantageous.

It is beneficial for these interns to have strong research, communication, and analytical skills.

Proficiency in writing and presenting information is often required due to the nature of the work.

While not mandatory, some interns might choose to pursue advanced degrees or certificates in related fields to enhance their knowledge and skills.

Participation in policy debates, volunteering on political campaigns, or experience in student government can also provide practical experience that will be valuable in this role.

A keen interest in current affairs, politics, and the legislative process is an essential qualification for a Government Affairs Intern.

 

Government Affairs Intern Salary Expectations

A Government Affairs Intern can expect to earn an average salary of $15.00 (USD) per hour.

This amount can fluctuate depending on the intern’s previous experience, the region in which they are working, and the specific governmental department.

 

Government Affairs Intern Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Government Affairs Intern need?

Government Affairs Interns need to have strong research skills, excellent written and verbal communication skills, and a good understanding of the political landscape.

They also need to be able to work well in a team and have the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.

Knowledge of policy-making processes and legislative procedures can also be beneficial.

 

Do Government Affairs Interns need a degree?

While a degree is not necessarily required for an internship, many organizations prefer candidates who are pursuing a degree in Political Science, International Relations, Public Policy, or a related field.

This is due to the nature of the work, which often involves understanding complex political and legislative processes.

 

What should you look for in a Government Affairs Intern resume?

A strong candidate for a Government Affairs Intern role would have a resume that demonstrates their interest in and knowledge of the political landscape.

This could include coursework related to politics or public policy, participation in student government or debate clubs, or previous internships or volunteer work in a related field.

Strong written and verbal communication skills are also important.

 

What qualities make a good Government Affairs Intern?

A good Government Affairs Intern is proactive, detail-oriented, and has a strong interest in the political process.

They need to be able to work well in a team and have strong problem-solving skills.

The ability to communicate effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including legislators, lobbyists, and the general public, is also important.

 

What tasks will a Government Affairs Intern be expected to handle?

A Government Affairs Intern may be expected to handle a variety of tasks, including conducting research on policy issues, preparing briefings and reports, attending legislative hearings or meetings, and assisting with the planning and execution of advocacy campaigns.

They may also be asked to assist with administrative tasks, such as managing correspondence or maintaining databases.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we have given you an insider’s look at what it truly means to be a Government Affairs Intern.

And guess what?

It’s not just about policy and politics.

It’s about shaping the future of governance, one policy at a time.

With our comprehensive Government Affairs Intern job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to dive in.

But why stop there?

Go further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for creating tailored job listings or optimizing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every policy contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape the future. Together.

How to Become a Government Affairs Intern (Complete Guide)

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