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Legislative Intern Jobs in Kentucky (NOW HIRING)

Legislative Intern information

What is a legislative intern?

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 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Legislative jobs in Kentucky?

The most popular types of Legislative jobs in Kentucky are:

What are popular job titles related to Legislative Intern jobs in Kentucky?

For Legislative Intern jobs in Kentucky, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in Kentucky are hiring for Legislative Intern jobs?

Cities in Kentucky with the most Legislative Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Legislative Intern job openings in Kentucky as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Internship, and 57% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Undergraduate Communications Intern - EPIC/CAER

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago


University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

312th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Undergraduate Communications Intern - EPIC/CAER Requisition Number DU14490 Department Name 40550:Ctr For Applied Energy Res Work Location Lexington, KY Salary Range $15.00/hour Type of Position Student Position Time Status Part-Time Required Education
HS diploma + 0 years of experience.
Required Related Experience
Coursework or prior experience in energy, environmental policy, public policy, communications, or a related discipline
Familiarity with Kentucky state and federal government or the energy sector
Experience with data visualization tools or ability to learn quickly
Graduate students or rising juniors/seniors preferred; all class levels welcome to apply
Required License/Registration/Certification
N/A
Physical Requirements
Requires handling lightweight objects up to 10lbs: standing and walking
Shift
8:00am - 5:00pm Monday-Friday
Job Summary
The Kentucky Energy Planning and Inventory Commission (EPIC) is an independent state agency established by the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly under KRS 164.2807. EPIC is administratively attached to the University of Kentucky's Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) and is charged with providing independent, data-driven analysis to inform state energy policy. EPIC's work spans three analytical pillars: demand forecasting, primary energy supply assessment, and transmission infrastructure.
This internship offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a first-of-its-kind state energy planning agency at a pivotal moment in Kentucky's energy future.
EPIC seeks motivated students to fill a rotating internship position supporting the agency's communications and policy research functions. The intern will work directly with the Executive Director and contribute to EPIC's public-facing communications, legislative support, and analytical research across energy topics including electricity supply adequacy, power plant retirements, data center energy demand, and transmission infrastructure.
Term Dates
Fall 2026 | Mid-August 2026 (August 24) | Mid-December 2026 (December 11) | ~16 weeks
| Spring 2027 | Mid-January 2027 (January 11) | Early May 2027 (May 7) | ~17 weeks
This position is well-suited for a student with interests in energy policy, public administration, environmental studies, communications, or a related field who wants hands-on experience in state government and energy planning.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- Support the development of public communications, including reports, briefings, legislative summaries, and web content
- Assist with policy research and background analysis on energy topics assigned by the Executive Director
- Track relevant legislation, regulatory proceedings, and industry developments, and produce summary materials
- Assist in preparation for board meetings, working committee meetings, and stakeholder briefings
- Support maintenance and updates to EPIC's energy data platforms and dashboards
- Draft correspondence, talking points, and other written materials as directed
- Perform other duties in support of EPIC's mission as assigned
The University of Kentucky is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Women, minorities and other persons underrepresented in sciences, technology, engineering and math are encouraged to apply.
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities
Strong writing and research skills
Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Interest in energy policy, public administration, environmental studies, or a related field
Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience Deadline to Apply 08/13/2026 Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865