External Relations and Policy Intern

Job Summary:

The External Affairs function plays a vital role in managing the agency’s relationships with external stakeholders, supporting cross-departmental collaboration, and maintaining the agency’s credibility and responsiveness in public settings. As this work continues to expand in volume, complexity, and visibility, additional capacity is needed to support core operations, research, and coordination. A part-time intern would provide essential support, allowing the department to operate more efficiently while also offering a valuable learning opportunity for a student interested in public service, communications, or policy.

The intern will report to the Director of External Affairs and:

• Expand the department’s capacity to track and respond to stakeholder inquiries and engagements in a timely manner.
• Help maintain and improve internal systems that support accountability and transparency.
• Support projects that promote agency visibility, policy alignment, and community relations.
• Provide administrative and research support, freeing the Director to focus on higher-level strategic priorities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Stakeholder Support and Engagement:
  • Track external inquiries and flag time-sensitive matters.
  • Support scheduling and prep for meetings with elected officials, city agencies, and community partners.
  • Draft briefing documents and summaries for external engagements.
• Research and Policy Support:
  • Conduct background research on local issues, community boards, elected officials, and policy developments.
  • Help prepare talking points and memos for public meetings.
• Communications and Materials:
  • Assist in maintaining the agency’s stakeholder contact database.
  • Support the development of presentations, one-pagers, and impact summaries.
• Administrative Support:
  • Organize files and maintain up-to-date records of external interactions.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Background in public policy, political science, communications or related fields.
• Technical skills: SharePoint, Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, Canva.
• Soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong writing skills. Previous internship experience or passion for volunteer work, community organizing, and public policy.

Hours:

• 10-15 hours per week