Intern - Public Affairs

The National Restaurant Association and National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation are proud to be part of a highly respected industry, providing hospitality, opportunity, and quality of life. Much like the industry we represent, we have a dynamic, diverse, and inclusive culture, grounded in trust, hospitality, collaboration, and innovation.

We currently have an immediate paid internship opportunity within our Public Affairs Department, providing a front-row seat to the inner workings of Government Relations, Public Policy, Grassroots, and other areas critical to our Public Affairs efforts. As an integral member of the Public Affairs team, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of initiatives related to Federal, State, and Local legislation and policy, work with member companies and State Restaurant Associations, attend events on Capitol Hill and/or around Washington, D.C. and more.

Ideal candidates include recent college graduates, and current undergrad, or graduate-level students enrolled in academic programs related to Government Affairs, Public Policy, Political Science, Business, Communications, or related areas of study. The position requires confidence and diplomacy to interact at all levels inside and outside the organization. Successful candidates will be self-starters; have strong oral, written, and research skills; and work with a high level of accountability and attention to detail. Previous experience and/or knowledge of the restaurant industry is preferred but not required.

The internship will run for approximately twelve weeks. Interns must be available between 20-40 hours per week. Position operates out of our DC office, with a required three days onsite, Monday – Wednesday with flexibility to work remote on Thursday and Friday. 

If you’re known for your resourcefulness, adaptability, and can-do attitude, and bring a strong interest in public policy, politics, and current events, send us a cover letter with your application today. We look forward to hearing from you!

• →Works as part of the Public Affairs team to accomplish Association goals.
• →Support all internal team members and departments following the Association’s mission and values while promoting Association culture.
• →Complete research as assigned.
• →Provide logistical support for the Public Affairs Department.
• →Respond to basic inquiries and requests for information from members and State Restaurant Associations.
• →Assist with the preparation of department newsletters.
• →Assist with legislative tracking.
• →Other duties as assigned.

• Recent college graduate, current undergrad, or a graduate-level student enrolled in an academic program related to Government Affairs, Public Policy, Political Science, Business, Communications, or a similar area of study.
• Prior professional work experience ideally within Political Science or related area.
• Fundamental government, political, and public policy knowledge.
• Exceptional ability to work well under pressure and thrive within a fast-paced and fluid environment.
• Project management skills and the ability to move multiple projects forward effectively.
• Strong interpersonal skills: the ability to interact and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to maintain accurate data/information and confidentiality of work records.
• Highly effective organizational, time-management, priority-setting, and problem-solving skills.
• Highly developed communication skills, verbal and written.
• Strong work ethic and a high degree of integrity
• Ability to work as part of a team and to work independently; a self-initiator, versatile, and assumes risk with responsibility.
• Proficiency across Microsoft Office products, including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel, and comfortable learning new technology/platforms as needed.