External Affairs Intern

May 13, 2026

Are you applying to the internship?

Job Description

About the Role
The External Affairs Intern will contribute to CEPA’s strategic engagement efforts by supporting high-profile public and private events and assisting in strengthening the organization’s relationships with key congressional and policy stakeholders. This internship offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in event planning, stakeholder engagement, and project coordination within an international policy-focused environment.

What You’ll Do
• Assist in planning and coordinating CEPA’s events, including roundtables, panel discussions, workshops, and conferences;
• Provide logistical and administrative support for inperson and online events;
• Help maintain event documentation, including guest lists, agendas, and postevent reports;
• Coordinate communication with event speakers, participants, and stakeholders;
• Support outreach and engagement efforts, including invitations and event promotion;
• Monitor and provide technical support for virtual events (e.g., webinars and online meetings);
• Collaborate with the External Affairs team on strategic initiatives to enhance CEPA’s event impact;
• Draft invite list, language, and participants list for CEPA congressional engagements;
• Conduct background research on Members of Congress and their staff for meetings and events;
• Track congressional hearings, meetings, nominations and other events as assigned.

You’re a Good Fit If You
• Are currently pursuing or recently graduated with a degree in a relevant field (e.g., International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, Event Management, Communications);
• Have minimum junior or senior standing in undergraduate studies, or enrollment in a graduate program;
• Possess strong organizational and project management abilities;
• Possess excellent communication skills, both written and verbal;
• Are proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and collaboration tools (Teams);
• Are familiar with event platforms (e.g., Zoom, Teams, or similar) and virtual event best practices;
• Have the ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively;
• Have a demonstrated interest in CEPA’s mission and focus areas, such as transatlantic relations and policy engagement;
• Possess strong attention to detail and organizational skills;
• Are a team player with a proactive approach;
• Show adaptability and eagerness to learn in a fast-paced environment.

Bonus Qualifications
• Have basic knowledge of global and regional politics or public policy.

Role Highlights & Compensation
• Schedule: Full or Part Time (20-40 hours per week)
• Location: Washington, DC
• Commitment to three months, with agreed-upon hours per week, between 20-40 hours
• Ability to work in CEPA’s office or remotely, depending on role requirements
• This is an unpaid internship.