ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Government Relations Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AEI

Fall Intern: Media Relations

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

AEI is a great place to learn about the interaction between government and media. Join a select intern program that offers unique learning experiences such as exposure to research in foreign policy ...

Invariant LLC

Fall 2026 Operations Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$24/hr

Description Invariant , a bipartisan government relations and communications firm providing strategic advice to companies, trade associations, nonprofits, and individuals, seeks an Operations Intern ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment Relations Intern Jobs

Government Relations Intern information

See salary details

$9

$17

$26

How much do government relations intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for government relations intern in the United States is $17.60, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Government Relations Intern do?

A Government Relations Intern supports the government relations or public affairs team by monitoring legislative developments, conducting policy research, drafting communications, and helping organize meetings or events with government officials. The role often involves tracking relevant bills or regulations, analyzing their impact, and preparing briefing materials. Interns may also assist in maintaining relationships with policymakers and stakeholders, providing administrative support, and contributing to advocacy efforts.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Government Relations Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Government Relations Intern, you need a solid understanding of public policy, legislative processes, and strong research and writing skills, often supported by coursework in political science or related fields. Familiarity with legislative tracking tools, CRM systems, and Microsoft Office Suite is typically expected. Exceptional communication, attention to detail, and the ability to build professional relationships help interns stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for effectively supporting government affairs strategies, monitoring policy developments, and facilitating stakeholder engagement.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a Government Relations Intern expect during their internship?

As a Government Relations Intern, you can expect to assist with tracking legislative developments, preparing briefing materials, attending government meetings or hearings, and supporting the creation of advocacy communications. You'll often collaborate with experienced government relations professionals and other departments such as communications or legal teams. This hands-on role provides exposure to policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and the day-to-day operations that shape an organization's public policy strategy. Interns typically gain valuable insight into the legislative process and may also have opportunities to participate in networking events or advocacy campaigns.
More about Government Relations Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Government Relations Intern jobs? Cities with the most Government Relations Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Government Relations jobs? The most popular types of Government Relations jobs are:
What states have the most Government Relations Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Government Relations Intern jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Government Relations Intern jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Government Relations Intern jobs are:
Government Relations Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Relations Intern job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,603 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Fall 2026 Government Relations Fellow (Internship)

Fall 2026 Government Relations Fellow (Internship)

Merchant McIntyre Associates

Washington, DC • On-site

$21/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Full-time, Part-time, Internship
Description
Merchant McIntyre & Associates is a midsize federal grants and government relations firm headquartered in Washington, D.C., that helps nonprofit clients from the higher education, healthcare, and local government sectors reach their federal funding and advocacy goals.
  • Tracking and researching federal legislation and regulations, including budget proposals and annual appropriations, impacting the firm's clients by utilizing online databases and news sources, and attending meetings and briefings on Capitol Hill and with Executive agency staff.
  • Supporting federal grant writing and legislative/policy objectives for the firm's clients, including researching and identifying federal grant opportunities, reading and synthesizing detailed federal grant documents and procurement regulations, and providing support to the client services team.
  • Long-term research projects in a variety of issue areas including health care, higher education, economic development, and workforce development.
  • Compiling reports and client briefing/background materials.
  • Administrative tasks (scheduling, internal, etc.) and planning and coordinating logistics.
  • Supporting the business development team as needed.

Requirements
  • Recent undergraduates or currently enrolled in a graduate degree program; relevant programs (public policy, law, etc.) are preferred.
  • Strong research skills, keen attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple assignments and meet deadlines.
  • Prior experience in a relevant field.
  • Impeccable written and oral communication skills.
  • Available to work a minimum of 24 hours per week, additional availability preferred.

Application Requirements:
1) Resume
2) In place of a cover letter, please respond to the following prompt: In a city known for its political gridlock, Merchant McIntyre maintains a unique " Commitment to My Co-workers " and engages in results-oriented collaboration. This commitment, combined with our expertise, has enabled us to build an agency of professionals who are hungry, humble, and smart with people. We recruit individuals who possess the "essential virtues" Patrick Lencioni describes in his book The Ideal Team . In 250 words or less, describe how you embody the "essential virtues" of being hungry, humble, and smart with people.
3) Two writing samples (Attach with the above response.)
This is a hybrid role in Washington, DC, and requires in-office attendance on Tuesday, Wednesday, and/or Thursday, depending on the agreed-upon schedule. Remote candidates will not be considered.
Salary Description
$21/hour

Apply