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Political Intern Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

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Political Intern information

See Madison, WI salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do political intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for political intern in Madison, WI is $17.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $19.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a political intern?

A Political Intern assists politicians, government agencies, or political organizations with research, administrative tasks, and event coordination. Responsibilities may include drafting policy briefs, managing correspondence, and engaging with constituents. Interns gain hands-on experience in legislative processes, campaign strategies, and public affairs. This role helps develop communication, analytical, and networking skills essential for a career in politics or public service.

What types of projects and responsibilities should I expect as a political intern?

As a Political Intern, you may assist with policy research, draft correspondence, prepare briefing materials, and help coordinate events or meetings. Daily tasks often include monitoring current events, summarizing legislation, managing constituent communications, and supporting outreach efforts. You’ll likely work closely with staff members, participate in team meetings, and interact with a diverse group of stakeholders. This hands-on experience offers valuable exposure to how political offices operate and can help you build a professional network for future career opportunities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a political intern?

To thrive as a Political Intern, you need strong research, writing, and organizational skills, typically supported by coursework in political science, public policy, or related fields. Familiarity with office productivity software, data management tools, and social media platforms is often required. Exceptional communication, teamwork, and adaptability are soft skills that help candidates excel in fast-paced, collaborative environments. These competencies are crucial for supporting policy initiatives, handling multiple tasks efficiently, and contributing meaningfully to political teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Political jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Political jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Political Intern jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Political Intern job openings:

Infographic showing various Political Intern job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $35,706 per year, or $17.2 per hour.

Community Development Intern

City of Whitewater

Whitewater, WI • On-site

$12 - $15/hr

Part-time, Internship

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Job Summary The Community Development Intern will be responsible for assisting the Community Development Department and other City staff with coordination and execution of a Downtown Activation Initiative. Essential Duties and Responsibilities This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities, as management may deem necessary. Percentages are approximate and will flex with the intern's course schedule and the Initiative's event calendar.

Focus Area Sample Tasks Approx. Time First Street Inventory & Activation Planning Complete the inventory of existing public assets available or needed for First Street (benches, planters, barricades, tables/chairs, other publicly owned assets), and coordinate with the Public Works Department on these items as needed Draft a First Street activation plan summarizing inventory findings and near-term tactical placemaking opportunities (movable seating, lighting, wayfinding, temporary art) for Director/Coordinator review Support City staff in brief research on comparable communities' tactical placemaking and DORA approaches Communicate with businesses adjacent to the planning area on an as needed basis Follow up support on placemaking recommendations made by City staff or third-party consultants 35% Business Pop-Up Event Coordination Conduct outreach to downtown businesses to gauge interest in hosting pop-up or activation events (live music, sidewalk sales, outside art displays, collaborative programming) Assist participating businesses with event logistics: scheduling, vendor coordination, signage Track events and businesses participating in the Downtown Event Activation Partner Pilot and help compile documentation for grant reimbursement 35% Front Window Artwork Installations Coordinate with vacant/participating storefront owners to schedule window art, murals, and temporary display installs under the Window Activation Program Serve as a liaison to preferred partners (UW-Whitewater Dept. of Art and Design, Whitewater Arts Alliance, Whitewater Unified School District) to help source artists/artwork Track small grant awards and maintain before/after photo documentation of installs 20% Reporting & Administrative Support Draft short progress updates for Director/Coordinator review Help track Initiative success metrics (events conducted, estimated attendance, participating businesses, activated windows) for the Council's Year 1 report General filing and records organization related to the Initiative 10% Qualifications To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily.

The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential function. Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student (UW-Whitewater or comparable institution), preferably in political science/public administration, business, economics, urban and regional studies, environmental studies, communication, or a related field.

Interest in local government, community development, or economic development. Strong written and verbal communication skills; comfortable interacting with business owners and the public. Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office; familiarity with GIS, Canva, or social media platforms preferred but not required.

Able to work independently on assigned tasks and manage a part-time schedule around coursework. Must satisfactorily complete background check required by the City of Whitewater policy for the role's level of access. Supervision Received and/or Exercised Work is performed under the general supervision of the Community Development Director and Economic Development Coordinator.