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Public Affairs Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$20/hr

... Public Affairs team , for the Fall 2026 session, which will begin on September 14, 2026, and end on ... The internships may range from six weeks to a full semester. Interns will receive a stipend of ...

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Public Affairs Internship information

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$24.5K

$130.2K

$210.5K

How much do public affairs internship jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for public affairs internship in the United States is $130,157.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,000.00 and $171,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public affairs internship?

Public affairs internships are temporary, entry-level positions that provide students or recent graduates with hands-on experience in public affairs, government relations, or communications. Interns typically assist with tasks such as monitoring legislation, drafting press releases, conducting research, and supporting advocacy efforts. These internships are often offered by government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private sector firms focused on policy and public relations. The goal is to help interns develop practical skills and gain insight into how organizations interact with the public and policymakers.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a public affairs internship?

As a Public Affairs Intern, you can expect to assist with drafting press releases, monitoring media coverage, and supporting outreach initiatives. Interns often help organize events, prepare briefing materials, and conduct research on policy issues relevant to the organization. You’ll typically work closely with communications professionals and government relations teams, gaining hands-on experience in stakeholder engagement and public messaging. This role provides valuable exposure to both internal strategy meetings and external communications, offering a well-rounded introduction to the field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public affairs intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Affairs Intern, you need strong research, writing, and communication skills, often complemented by coursework in political science, communications, or public relations. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, social media platforms, and content management systems is beneficial. Initiative, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively help set candidates apart. These abilities are vital for effectively supporting public affairs campaigns, managing information flow, and contributing to organizational goals.

What is the difference between Public Affairs Internship vs Public Relations Internship?

AspectPublic Affairs InternshipPublic Relations Internship
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or holding a degree in political science, communications, or related fieldsOften pursuing or holding a degree in communications, marketing, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, nonprofit organizations, advocacy groupsCorporate firms, PR agencies, media outlets
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in government, policy, and advocacy sectorsCommon in corporate, media, and marketing industries
Search & Comparison IntentInterested in policy, government relations, advocacy workFocused on brand image, media relations, and communication strategies

Public Affairs Internships primarily focus on government relations, policy advocacy, and working within the public sector, while Public Relations Internships concentrate on managing brand reputation, media communication, and corporate image. Both roles involve communication skills but serve different industry needs and environments.

More about Public Affairs Internship jobs

What cities are hiring for Public Affairs Internship jobs?

Cities with the most Public Affairs Internship job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Affairs jobs?

The most popular types of Public Affairs jobs are:

What states have the most Public Affairs Internship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Affairs Internship jobs include:

Infographic showing various Public Affairs Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,157 per year, or $62.6 per hour.

Political Affairs Internship

The Borgen Project

Mequon, WI • Remote

Part-time, Internship

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Are you passionate about making a difference in the world? Look no further!

The Borgen Project is an international organization that works at the political level to improve living conditions for people impacted by war, famine and poverty.

With 20 years of experience in the advocacy space, The Borgen Project has worked to support the passage of numerous bills that have benefitted close to 500 million people in developing countries.

Political Affairs Internship: The role focuses on making poverty a focus of U.S., Canadian and U.K. foreign policy. This is a part-time 12-hours per week, 12 week, unpaid remote internship. If your availability is limited, you can work ahead and complete the program in fewer weeks.

Responsibilities will include:

  • Leading public and political outreach in your state and district.
  • Meeting with members of Congress/Government in your State/District/Constituency.
  • Representing The Borgen Project at various business, political and community events.
  • Assisting with fundraising. Create a personal fundraising campaign and meet targets.
  • Mobilizing individuals to contact their members of Government in support of key poverty-reduction legislation.
  • Speaking to groups, classes and organizations.
  • Writing letters of support for key programs to political leaders, media and other groups.

Experience: No prior experience is necessary, we're looking for people who are passionate about fighting poverty and righting wrongs, regardless of your GPAs/background.

Details: This is an unpaid internship, although college credit is available.

Start Date: New programs begin every month, you choose the month you wish to start.

Watch our video to learn more: The Borgen Project


Borgen Project logo

About Borgen Project

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Borgen Project is a non-profit organization situated in Seattle, WA, US and dedicated to fighting extreme poverty worldwide. Predominantly functioning within the non-profit industry, its principle services encompass advocacy, education, awareness, and volunteerism. The Borgen Project was born from the vision of its founder Clint Borgen in 2003, when he recognized the potency of political leverage in alleviating impoverishment. Embodying core values of leadership, ingenuity, and gallant determination, the organization aims to mobilize U.S political leaders to participate actively in the global poverty reduction campaign. The ambitious mission of The Borgen Project is to make global poverty a political priority via a nationwide educational outreach and advocacy. The organization takes pride in its notable milestones such as the successful lobbying of several bills aimed at reducing poverty globally.

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

1 - 10 Employees

Headquarters location

Seattle, WA, US

Year founded

2003

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