Demo

Public Affairs Intern

American Petroleum Institute
Washington, DC Intern
POSTED ON 12/5/2025 CLOSED ON 1/4/2026

What are the responsibilities and job description for the Public Affairs Intern position at American Petroleum Institute?

The Public Affairs Interns will gain hands-on experience across three core areas: grassroots engagement, paid media, and issue advocacy. Working closely with our digital communications, paid media, and campaigns leads, the intern will contribute to strategic initiatives that advance API’s mission and public engagement efforts.

This internship offers exposure to the full range of public affairs work— from digital content and paid media, to grassroots advocacy and campaign execution. The intern will strengthen skills in writing, project management, analytics, and digital tools, and gain a deeper understanding of how grassroots advocacy influences policy and public perception.

Projects and Tasks

  • Support issue advocacy, paid media, and grassroots digital projects..
  • Assist with planning, launching, and analyzing paid media campaigns (including social ads, display, and search).
  • Help develop and schedule digital content for grassroots advocacy, including email, text, social media, and website updates.
  • Support campaign strategy by contributing creative ideas, drafting advocacy materials, and monitoring engagement metrics.
  • Collaborate on the creation of graphics and multimedia assets for organic and paid communications.
  • Analyze political and electoral environments to inform campaign strategies; track candidate stances and election-related developments.
  • Monitor trends in energy policy and digital advocacy, identifying new opportunities for engagement.
  • Participate in team meetings and provide updates on assigned projects.

 

Qualifications

  • Preferred majors: Political Science, Communications, Journalism, Business, Public relations, or related fields.
  • Understanding of U.S. political landscape, including federal and state-level dynamics.
  • Strong interest in digital communication, political campaigns, advocacy, and public affairs.
  • Familiarity with social media platforms, paid media tools, email marketing, or website content management is helpful.
  • Excellent writing, editing, and organizational skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
  • Interest in public policy, grassroots advocacy, and the energy sector.
  •  

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

  • None

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. 

 

Salary : $20 - $25

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