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External Affairs Intern Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... affairs, communications, hospitality, or organizational operations. The intern will gain hands on ... Provide excellent service to internal and external attendees, ensuring a welcoming and professional ...

External Affairs Intern information

What is an external affairs intern?

External Affairs Interns support an organization’s efforts to engage with external stakeholders, such as government agencies, the media, and the public. Their responsibilities often include conducting research, drafting communications, assisting with event planning, and monitoring policy developments. This role offers valuable hands-on experience in public relations, advocacy, and policy analysis, which are essential for careers in government, nonprofit, or corporate sectors. Interns work closely with the external affairs team to help shape the organization’s public image and advance its goals.

What types of projects does an external affairs intern typically work on, and how do these contribute to the organization's goals?

External Affairs Interns often support a variety of projects such as drafting press releases, assisting with event planning, conducting stakeholder research, and monitoring media coverage. These tasks help strengthen the organization’s public image, facilitate effective communication with partners, and support advocacy efforts. Interns frequently collaborate with communications, policy, and government relations teams, gaining exposure to cross-functional teamwork and networking opportunities that can benefit future career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an external affairs intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an External Affairs Intern, you generally need strong research, writing, and organizational skills, often supported by coursework in public relations, communications, or political science. Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Office Suite, social media platforms, and CRM or advocacy software is commonly expected. Excellent interpersonal communication, adaptability, and attention to detail help you stand out when coordinating with stakeholders and managing multiple priorities. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting outreach efforts, maintaining positive relationships, and ensuring successful execution of external affairs initiatives.

What are the most commonly searched types of External Affairs jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of External Affairs jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to External Affairs Intern jobs in Virginia?

For External Affairs Intern jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching External Affairs Intern jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for External Affairs Intern jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for External Affairs Intern jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most External Affairs Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various External Affairs Intern job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Drive Public Affairs Internship (Fall 2026)

Alexandria, VA • On-site

Push Digital Group
51 - 200 employees

$15 - $20/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 8 days ago


Job description

We're using creativity, data, and technology on a mission to be the most effective, innovative, and trusted force in politics and public affairs. But none of that happens without our award-winning team. It's our people, day in and day out, who deliver for our clients and for each other. That's why we prioritize our collaborative culture and invest in you - so you can grow your career and thrive professionally and personally.
Sounds like something that would get you up in the morning? Join us!
As a Public Affairs Intern with Drive Public Affairs (a member of Push Digital Group), you'll work side-by-side with members of our public affairs team on many projects critical to our company's success... and help to propel your own career to the next level.
Here's a snapshot of what you may accomplish during your time as a Public Affairs Intern:
  • Video Production Support: Assist in video production with C-Suite executives and Members of Congress.
  • Ad Concept Drafting: Draft creative concepts and messaging for client advertising campaigns.
  • Digital Content Management: Learn how to clip, caption, and format video assets for social media rapid response.
  • Technology Vetting: Test and provide critical feedback on internal AI software development.
  • Operational Support: Assist staff through detailed notetaking and essential daily office tasks.

What sorts of skills and experience should you bring to a Digital Advertising Internship?
Most importantly, we only recruit interns with a positive, can-do attitude who take a "run, not walk" approach to helping our clients and team succeed.
Here are some of the other things we look for in our Public Affairs Interns (don't have all of these? That's okay - we still encourage you to apply and throw your hat in the ring.)
  • Organized, self-starting team player who can prioritize, multi-task, maintain a professional demeanor, and has a desire to grow in the role.
  • Flexibility and ability to perform in a fast-paced work environment, often under tight deadlines.
  • Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality and discretion for confidential work, information, and sensitive situations.
  • Strong attention to detail.

What you need to know about our Public Affairs internship program:
  • Public Affairs Internships are in-person, in-office roles available in our office in Alexandria, Virginia.
  • Fall internships start in late-August and last through early December. Summer internships typically run from late-May to mid-August. Spring internships typically run from mid-January through early May. We accept applications year-round for all terms.
  • You should expect to work around 15-25 hours a week. Your manager will work with you on a specific schedule.
  • These are paid internships with specific compensation dependent on location and any prior experience you may have.
  • We are also happy to help you obtain school credit through your university.

Sound like a great fit? Complete an internship application today!
As of the date of this posting (June 23, 2026), a good faith estimate of the hourly pay range for this position is $15 to $20. Placement within the range will be determined based on job-related, non-discriminatory factors including qualifications and experience, education, external market data, and internal equity.
The deadline to apply is September 23, 2026.
Push Digital Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. We comply with all applicable minimum wage laws. We comply with any leave required under federal, state, or local law as applicable. Benefits are subject to vesting and eligibility requirements. To comply with pay transparency requirements and other applicable laws, you can notify us if you believe that a job posting is not compliant by contacting us at apply@pushdigital.com.