Government Affairs Internship
America’s Poison Centers represent the nation’s 53 Poison Centers. Through the national Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) and website, PoisonHelp.org, our mission is to provide the nation with expert clinical advice available 24/7/365, at no cost. We have established partnerships with federal agencies, non-profits, and private industry supporting national surveillance, public health initiatives, and poisoning prevention and education campaigns. America’s Poison Centers also maintains the nation’s only near real-time poisoning data surveillance system (National Poison Data System©, integrating the latest information from across our Poison Center network. Poison Centers handle more than 2 million cases annually and are on the front lines of responding to emerging public health threats, such as opioids and COVID-19.
We are looking for a collaborative, highly organized, proactive intern with knowledge and/or experience of the federal legislative process and building coalitions. You will join a group of highly skilled professionals focused on advancing public health in a collaborative and supportive work environment.
- Internship responsibilities:
o Assist in researching key advocacy areas.
o Assist in the development and writing of reports and policy materials.
o Help draft and prepare materials for distribution.
o Attend, take notes, and report back on congressional hearings and other Washington,
DC policy events as assigned such as briefings.
o Monitor pending, and proposed legislation.
o Participate in meetings or calls and produce summaries.
o Assist in researching, forecasting, and evaluating the effects of public policy on our
members.
o When possible and appropriate, accompany to meetings.
o Participate in group meetings.
o Other duties as assigned.
- Expectations:
o Availability to work approximately 20 hours/week
o Available to work from our Arlington, VA office, aligned with a mutually agreed upon
schedule
o Beginning June 2, 2025 – August 1, 2025 (9 weeks)
o This position is unpaid
- Resources, training, and feedback
o Intern will receive a comprehensive orientation, including an introduction to America’s
Poison Centers, the individual poison centers, and various other departments.
o Intern will report to the National Director of Government Affairs
o In addition to ongoing, real-time feedback, the intern will receive a formal evaluation at
the end of their internship experience to highlight areas of strength and recommend
any areas for future growth
- Job Requirements
o Rising junior, senior in an undergraduate degree program or enrolled in a graduate
degree program in public policy, public administration, public health, or a related
program
o Strong writing, editing, analytical, and research skills with a focus on details
o Excellent verbal and written communication skills
o Demonstrably quick study and independent, inquisitive learner
Flexible work approach: must be able to work productively in a team environment, as well as under minimal supervision. Please submit resume, cover letter, and a writing sample to ward@poisoncenters.org with “Government Affairs Internship” as the subject line. Applications are due by April 17, 2025.
