Policy, Economics, Regulatory Affairs Intern

The Policy Division intern will gain first-hand experience at the intersection of federal public policy and the U.S. natural gas and oil industry. Working in support of API’s Senior Vice President of Policy and the Director of Policy & Strategy, the intern will contribute to a wide range of projects related to key policy issues including: trade, federal leasing and permitting, climate and environmental regulation, fuels policy, and other priority issues for the association.

The intern will learn how a national trade association develops and advances policy positions, including exposure to internal member working groups, cross-functional policy teams, and external stakeholder engagement. Day-to-day work will include policy research, monitoring and summarizing legislative and regulatory developments, drafting briefing materials and presentations, and supporting preparation for internal and external meetings.

The intern’s program of work will be structured with a detailed plan for the first two weeks, including introductions across the Policy Division, scheduled meetings with key staff, and at least one defined project owned by the intern. On in-office and telework days, the intern will have clearly scoped assignments focused on research, writing, data collection, and preparation of materials for executive-level use.

Projects and Tasks

• Conduct background research and prepare concise written summaries, issue briefs, and talking points to support the Senior Vice President of Policy and the Policy & Strategy team.
• Help draft and refine PowerPoint presentations, one-pagers, and other materials for internal leadership briefings, member company meetings, and external engagements.
• Support planning and logistics for Policy Division meetings and events (e.g., all-hands meetings, policy lead sessions, and selected board or committee briefings), including agenda support and note-taking.
• Maintain and update trackers or simple databases for major rulemakings, comment letter deadlines, Hill and agency meetings, and other key milestones.
• Attend internal and external meetings (as appropriate) and prepare timely notes and key-takeaway summaries for distribution to staff.
• On telework days, focus on research and drafting assignments, updating trackers, preparing meeting summaries, and supporting longer-term policy projects or a defined “capstone” memo or presentation.

Qualifications

• Preferred majors: Public Policy, Political Science, Economics, International Relations, Energy/Environmental Studies, Business, or related fields. Students in technical disciplines (e.g., engineering or data analytics) with a strong interest in policy are also encouraged to apply.
• Demonstrated interest in public policy, government, or regulatory affairs; interest in energy, international security, climate, trade, or infrastructure issues is a plus.
• Strong research, analytical, and written communication skills, including the ability to synthesize complex information into clear, concise summaries.
• High attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and comfort managing multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint, Excel); familiarity with data visualization or basic quantitative analysis is helpful but not required.
• Ability to work collaboratively with staff at all levels, maintain professionalism and discretion, and demonstrate initiative in taking ownership of assigned work.

Physical Requirements

• Able to remain in a stationary position working on a computer
• Move about the office to access office machinery, meeting rooms, etc. 
• Operate a computer and other office machinery such as printers and copy machines
• Transport items and equipment up to 25 lbs. on occasion

Travel Requirements

•  Up to 25% 

This job outline describes the typical accountabilities and requirements of the position and should not be construed as an all-encompassing description of every duty performed by or expected of the incumbent.

EEO Statement

API is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. All aspects of employment will be based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. Our success in maintaining a reputation for professional excellence depends on selecting the best qualified candidates. Achieving this objective means that no employee or applicant for employment will be discriminated against because of race, color, religion, age, gender expression or identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including childbirth, related medical conditions, breastfeeding, and reproductive health decisions), genetic information, national origin, disability, marital status, personal appearance, family responsibilities, political affiliation, matriculation, credit information, the status as a victim or family member of a victim of domestic violence, stalking or sexual offense, or any prohibited basis under federal, state or local law.

API is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. If you require reasonable accommodation in completing this application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please direct your inquiries to the Human Resources Department via email at HumanResources@api.org. 

Candidates are typically hired at a point in the salary range based on prior experience, education, and market demand for the role; candidates are also compared internally to their peers.

API offers a comprehensive benefits package for our employees and their families. More information about our benefits may be found at api.org/about/careers/benefits.