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Legislative Intern Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

District Office Intern

Chula Vista, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.25/hr

... Intern will be responsible for general office duties including shadowing staff at community ... Familiarity with legislative culture and process is preferred. Interns are expected to commit to a ...

District Office Intern

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $20.75/hr

... Intern will be responsible for general office duties including shadowing staff at community ... Familiarity with legislative culture and process is preferred. Interns are expected to commit to a ...

Internship

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

... the legislative process as well as the intersection of public policy and grassroots advocacy ... Intern will assist with media requests, keep track of positive and negative coverage of Islam and ...

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Legislative Intern information

What kinds of projects and responsibilities can a Legislative Intern expect to handle during their internship?

As a Legislative Intern, you can expect to assist with a variety of tasks such as conducting policy research, drafting memos or briefs, attending committee hearings, and helping with constituent correspondence. Interns often support legislative staff in preparing for meetings and may be asked to summarize complex legislative issues into concise reports. This hands-on experience offers valuable exposure to the legislative process and provides opportunities to collaborate with lawmakers, staffers, and other interns, making it an excellent way to build relevant skills and professional connections.

What is the difference between Legislative Intern vs Legislative Assistant?

AspectLegislative InternLegislative Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates, some internships require coursework in political science or related fieldsUsually college graduates with relevant experience, sometimes with a background in political science or law
Work EnvironmentTemporary, entry-level position within government offices, legislative bodies, or advocacy groupsFull-time, professional role supporting legislators with research, policy analysis, and constituent communication
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government offices, legislative chambers, and political organizations for training and entry-level supportCommon in legislative offices, government agencies, and political consulting firms for ongoing legislative support

In summary, a Legislative Intern is an entry-level, temporary position often held by students or recent graduates gaining exposure to legislative processes. A Legislative Assistant is a more experienced, full-time role involving substantive policy work and ongoing support for legislators. Both roles are essential in the legislative process but differ in responsibilities and experience requirements.

What are legislative interns?

Legislative interns are individuals, often students or recent graduates, who work temporarily for legislators, government offices, or advocacy organizations to gain firsthand experience in the legislative process. Their duties typically include conducting research, attending committee meetings, drafting correspondence, and assisting with constituent services. The internship provides valuable insight into how laws are made and the daily operations of a legislative office, making it a popular stepping stone for those interested in careers in government, public policy, or law.

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

To thrive as a Legislative Intern, you need strong research, analytical, and writing skills, often supported by coursework in political science, public policy, or related fields. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and document management tools is typically important. Exceptional communication, attention to detail, and adaptability help you excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These skills ensure you can effectively support legislative staff, manage information, and contribute to the policymaking process.
What are the most commonly searched types of Legislative jobs in California? The most popular types of Legislative jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Legislative Intern jobs? Cities in California with the most Legislative Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Legislative Intern job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 1% As Needed, 55% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.
Emergency Management: Legislative Research Intern - OC Sheriff's Department (Unpaid Intern)

Emergency Management: Legislative Research Intern - OC Sheriff's Department (Unpaid Intern)

Orange County, CA

Santa Ana, CA • On-site

Internship

Posted 5 days ago


County Of Orange (California) rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

190th of 833 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Location : Santa Ana, CA
Job Type: Unpaid Intern
Job Number: 0000IN-0423-060 (O)
Department: Sheriff-Coroner
Opening Date: 05/10/2023
Closing Date: Continuous
CAREER DESCRIPTION
Position
Emergency Management: Legislative Research Intern (Unpaid Intern)
This internship recruitment will remain posted on a continuous basis until the needs of the Agency are met. Students and recent graduates are encouraged to apply immediately.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early as background investigations for this internship can take two to three months to process.
ORANGE COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPARTMENT
The Orange County Sheriff-Coroner's Department is a modern, progressive law enforcement agency dedicated to protecting the peace and enhancing the quality of life for everyone in the County of Orange. The Department provides primary police services to 700,000 residents of 12 cities, the unincorporated areas of Orange County, as well as security for John Wayne Airport, harbors and coastline, public transportation, and courts.
MISSION STATEMENT
The mission of the Orange County Sheriff's Department's Emergency Management Division is to promote, facilitate and support the County of Orange and the Operational Area (OA) efforts to prepare for, respond to and recover from disasters.
WHAT WE DO
The Emergency Management Division provides emergency management and preparedness services to the unincorporated areas of Orange County and supports the efforts of the Orange County Operational Area. There are currently over 100 jurisdictions in the Operational Area (OA) encompassing all County departments and agencies, public and private organizations and the general population within the boundaries of Orange County.
THE OPPORTUNITY
The primary duty of the legislative intern will be to research pending legislation related to the emergency management field, preparing a report on legislative activity, and presenting the report and analysis to staff and officials. Duties may also include assisting staff in the day-to-day operations within the Emergency Management Division office; answering inquiries by phone and through written communications; preparing documents and reports; assisting with research assignments and special projects; attending meetings or community events; filing, faxing, photocopying, etc.
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited college, university, or trade school and majoring in Emergency Management, Public Safety, Political Science, Public Administration, Law, Public Affairs, Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, History, or related fields; or be a recent graduate (within 6 months) who has completed their degree in one of the above fields of study.
SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS
Excellent written and oral communication skills; ability to research information and prepare reports and other correspondence; experience with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word and Excel; reliable, outgoing and able to work independently. Previous office experience preferred. Professional appearance and business attire required.
TIME COMMITMENT
The internship is in-person only. Minimum 5 hours per week over one semester or quarter, although internship can be extended to no more than 12 months. Hours must be scheduled during regular business hours (Monday through Friday between 7 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.). Summer internships are available.
This internship may be scheduled for a combination of remote and in-person work. In-person work will be performed at the Orange County Emergency Operations Center located at 2644 Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado, California.
BENEFITS AVAILABLE TO INTERNS
Internships with the Sheriff-Coroner's Department offer students experience in working within a large government entity. The Emergency Management Division provides exposure to many different aspects of legislative relations, as staff coordinate daily with local, state and federal governmental agencies as a part of routine operations. The EMD is one of the few assignments within the County that the intern may be exposed to a multi-agency and multi-discipline government coordination. This assignment also provides an opportunity for students to explore career options, gain career skills, build resumes and network with professionals in their field of interest.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts to their application. The cover letter is an opportunity for applicants to describe career and academic goals, to elaborate upon personal and academic accomplishments, to share areas of interest that relate to the internship and to identify what type of internship experience they are seeking.
Applications that do not include a cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts will not be considered.
REQUIRED BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION
Background investigations that can take two - three months to process will be conducted on applicants who have successfully interviewed for the internship and wish to pursue placement.
The background investigation includes a 20 - 30-minute pre-screen interview. The pre-screen interview for out-of-state applicants can be conducted by phone. An additional three-hour in-person interview and Livescan fingerprinting are also required.
The following documents will be completed by qualified applicants during the background investigation:
  • Civilian Personal History form, includes employment history & arrest record
  • Notarized Authorization to Release Information form
As part of the background investigation, applicants will be required to provide five references along with original copies of the following documents:
  • Birth certificate (original or certified copy) or if applicable, naturalization certificate/resident card (Passport is not accepted.)
  • Valid, state-issued driver's license or ID
  • Social Security card
  • Proof of current automobile liability insurance coverage, listing applicant as an insured driver
  • Official college transcript(s) (Required for applicants who have completed their degree(s) and must be submitted in a sealed/unopened envelope.)

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
EMAIL NOTIFICATION:
Email is the primary form of notification during the recruitment process. Please ensure your correct email address is included in our application and use only one email account.
NOTE: User accounts are established for one person only and should not be shared with another person. Multiple applications with multiple users may jeopardize your status in the recruitment process for any positions for which you apply.
Candidates will be notified regarding their status as the recruitment proceeds via email through the GovernmentJobs.com site. Please check your email folders, including spam/junk folders, and/or accept emails ending with "governmentjobs.com" and "ocgov.com." If your email address should change, please update your profile at
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
For additional internship postings, please check our Web site at the following link:
Click for additional Frequently Asked Questions.
For specific information pertaining to this recruitment, please contact (714) 834-2555 or
EEO INFORMATION
Orange County, as an equal employment opportunity employer,
encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds to apply.

This position does not offer any benefits.
If you have any questions, please contact the recruiter for this position. The recruiter should be listed on the Job Posting.
01
To be considered for an internship opportunity, you must submit by attaching to this application your cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts.
I have read and understand this requirement to be considered.
(Please attach cover letter, resume, and unofficial transcripts)
  • YES
  • NO

02
I am currently enrolled in an accredited college, university, or trade school and am majoring in Emergency Management, Public Safety, Political Science, Public Administration, Law, Public Affairs, Communications, Public Relations, Public Policy, History, or related fields. or I am a recent graduate (within 6 months) in the previously mentioned majors.
  • YES
  • NO

03
Please describe your education and how it relates to the Internship.
04
Please enter your current GPA.
05
Please list the number of hours you can schedule each week.
06
Please enter approximate date you can begin internship.
Note: Applicants will need to apply early as background investigations can take two to three months to complete
07
Please list out the days you are available to schedule intern hours and the available times for each day.Example: Monday, 10am-2pm.
08
Type your preferred duration of internship. Example: 3 months
09
Please read the following statement carefully. After reading the statement, answer the question.
In conjunction with the passage of Assembly Bill 2830 by the California State Legislature, specific individuals may qualify for hiring preference when applying for an internship position.
Individuals who are, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 31000.11 are encouraged to apply and will be given priority in the hiring process. Please note that prior to appointment, individuals claiming preference under one of these categories may be required to furnish documentation establishing their eligibility. Are you eligible to receive this hiring preference based on Government Code 31000.11?
(Select "Yes" only if you belong to one of the above mentioned categories)
  • No, I am not eligible for government code section 31000.11
  • I am, or have been, a dependent child in foster care, a homeless youth, or a formerly incarcerated youth as defined by Government Code section 31000.11

10
As part of the background process, students applying for an internship will need to provide a social security number. Are you able to meet this requirement?
  • YES
  • NO

11
Will you receive academic credit through your college/university? (Students will be asked to provide University agreements or MOUs that a site supervisor is required to sign before being offered placement)
  • YES
  • NO

Required Question

What County Of Orange (California) employees say

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