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Politics Intern Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

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Politics Intern information

What is a politics intern?

Politics interns are students or recent graduates who work in political offices, campaigns, think tanks, or advocacy organizations to gain firsthand experience in the political process. Their responsibilities may include conducting research, assisting with communications, attending meetings, managing social media, and supporting event planning. This role provides valuable exposure to the workings of government, policy development, and public affairs, helping interns build networks and develop skills for future political or public service careers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a politics intern?

To thrive as a Politics Intern, you generally need a solid understanding of political science, current events, and strong research and writing abilities, often supported by coursework or a degree in a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, social media platforms, and office software like Microsoft Office or Google Suite is typically expected. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and adaptability help you stand out when networking and supporting fast-paced projects. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively contributing to campaigns, policy research, and stakeholder engagement in a dynamic political environment.

What is the difference between Politics Intern vs Campaign Assistant?

AspectPolitics InternCampaign Assistant
Required CredentialsTypically enrolled in or recent graduate of political science, communications, or related fieldsSimilar educational background; often with some experience in campaigns or politics
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in government offices, NGOs, or political organizationsFast-paced campaign offices, political events, and fieldwork
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, political parties, NGOsPolitical campaigns, advocacy groups, party offices

While both roles involve political activities, a Politics Intern typically gains experience through an internship in government or political organizations, focusing on research and administrative tasks. A Campaign Assistant works directly on campaign operations, managing events, outreach, and voter engagement during active campaigns. Both roles are entry-level but differ in scope and environment.

How much do politics interns make?

Politics interns typically earn between $10 and $20 per hour, with some paid hourly and others working as unpaid volunteers depending on the organization. Paid internships often offer stipends or hourly wages, and compensation can vary based on location, organization size, and the intern's experience.

What do politics interns do?

As a Politics Intern, you can expect to be involved in a range of tasks such as conducting research on policy issues, assisting with event planning, drafting communications and reports, and supporting campaign or legislative activities. Interns often work closely with staff members, contributing to team meetings and collaborating on outreach initiatives. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the daily operations of political offices or organizations, and offers networking opportunities with professionals in the field. The workload can be fast-paced, especially during legislative sessions or campaign cycles, so adaptability and strong organizational skills are important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Politics jobs in Michigan?

The most popular types of Politics jobs in Michigan are:

What cities in Michigan are hiring for Politics Intern jobs?

Cities in Michigan with the most Politics Intern job openings:

Politics Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Politics Intern job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 20% Internship, 1% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Communication Associate (Internship)

Michigan AFL-CIO

Lansing, MI • On-site

$15.25 - $20.25/hr

Part-time, Internship

Re-posted 20 days ago

Job description

Position: Communications Associate Internship
Reports To: Press Secretary or Graphic Designer
Job Type: Internship/Fellowship
Work Location: Hybrid (based in Lansing)
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Communications Associate is a temporary, educational position designed to provide students with exposure to labor communications work without performing bargaining-unit duties covered by the IBT Local 243 contract. The Communications Associate focuses on learning, observation, research, and administrative support, and does not include any duties regularly or historically assigned to bargaining-unit employees.
The intern will work under close supervision and will receive hands-on learning opportunities to understand how communication supports the labor movement. Under the direction of the Press Secretary or Graphic Designer, the Communications Associate(s) will assist in developing and executing earned, owned, and digital media strategies for learning purposes.
TIME COMMITMENT & COMPENSATION
  • This is a part-time, paid opportunity.
  • Contribute a minimum of 10 hours per week, though availability for 20 hours per week is preferred.
  • Interns are expected to work 12-14 weeks on periods consistent with fall, spring, and summer college semester schedules.

RESPONSIBILITIES
The Communications Associate internship is structured as a learning and training opportunity and is not intended to replace, supplement, or perform work assigned to bargaining-unit employees covered by the IBT Local 243 collective bargaining agreement. Responsibilities are limited to educational, observational, research, and administrative support activities performed under close supervision.
Research & Academic Support
  • Conduct background research on labor issues, public policy topics, or current events to support learning objectives.
  • Compile research summaries, media scans, or content audits for review by supervisory staff.
  • Assist with fact-checking and proofreading draft materials for learning and training purposes.

Administrative & Training-Based Assistance
  • Perform administrative tasks related to organizing digital files, tracking content calendars, or updating internal databases.
  • Assist with scheduling, organizing, or documenting communications projects for instructional purposes.
  • Support the preparation of draft materials (e.g., sample social media posts, mock press releases, or graphics) that are reviewed and finalized by non-intern staff.

Skill Development Projects
  • Complete supervised learning projects designed to build writing, editing, graphic design, or digital media skills.
  • Participate in training exercises using communications tools and platforms in a non-production capacity.
  • Receive feedback and coaching on drafts and sample work as part of professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • College students (undergraduate or masters) with minimum undergraduate sophomore standing.
  • Strong writing and editing skills with the ability to produce clear, persuasive, and compelling content per learning objectives.
  • Willingness to learn and grow communications, digital media, public affairs, political campaigns, journalism and related skill sets.
  • Ability to manage multiple administrative tasks.
  • Commitment to strengthen Michigan's labor movement.
  • Familiarity with social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X/Twitter, LinkedIn) and digital publishing tools.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience using digital organizing tools (Action Network, Mobilize, email CRMs, etc.)
  • Basic graphic design or video editing experience (Canva, Adobe Creative Suite, CapCut, etc.)

Knowledge of Michigan politics, labor unions, or advocacy spaces.
HOW TO APPLY
  • Please submit the following to [email protected] with the subject line "Communications Associate Intern - Your Name": A résumé, brief cover letter, 3 writing or digital media samples (social media, press releases, op-eds, or similar from school or work). Include at least one piece of writing that exceeds a page (use an academic paper, if necessary).
  • Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.

JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION - EEOC
Our organization is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to build diversity among our officers, staff, and members. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Women, people of color, LGBTQ, veterans, and disabled candidates are encouraged to apply.
ORGANIZATION
The Michigan AFL-CIO is a non-profit federation of more than forty labor unions representing over 1 million working people across Michigan. Our mission is to improve the lives of working families-to bring economic justice to the workplace and social justice to our state and the nation. Employees of the Michigan AFL-CIO may work in collaboration with one, or all, of our affiliated nonprofit organizations in the Federation, including:
Michigan AFL-CIO Workforce Development Institute: our affiliated 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization was established to combat economic and environmental injustice by connecting the unemployed or underemployed with the training and resources necessary to find gainful employment and transition Michigan to a cleaner, greener economy.
Michigan AFL-CIO Labor Foundation: our affiliated 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization established to combat economic and social injustice by connecting the working people with resources within Michigan's charitable, educational and legal systems.
Michigan AFL-CIO Advocates: our affiliated 501(c)(4) non-profit organization was established to unite labor leaders, policymakers, and the public to educate and advocate for policies, programs, and projects to bring economic justice to the workplace and social justice to communities across Michigan.

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