Conservative Ratings

The Conservative Ratings Intern supports the ratings program — tracking rated votes, maintaining the scoring database, and helping keep the organization's legislative scorecards accurate and defensible. The ratings are only as credible as the process, and this role helps keep the process tight.

Core Duties

• Track and log rated votes across federal and state legislatures throughout the session.
• Enter and verify scores in the ratings database, maintaining full audit trails.
• Apply the scoring methodology consistently and flag judgment calls for staff review.
• Maintain historical ratings records and reconcile discrepancies against source data.
• Assist with the review process, including preparing responses to legislator office inquiries.
• Support scorecard production, proofing, and publication with Communications.
• Prepare ratings data and summaries for events, publications, and press inquiries.
• Maintain the vote-tracking calendar and flag upcoming rated votes early.

Role-Specific Qualifications

• Rigorous data accuracy and documentation habits.
• Working knowledge of, or strong interest in, the federal and state legislative process.
• Strong spreadsheet skills; database experience a plus.
• Discretion handling pre-publication scores and legislator communications.

Standard Qualifications — All Internships

• Current enrollment in an accredited college or university; eligible for the Federal Work Study Program where applicable.
• Senior in high school, recent high school graduate, or GED equivalent.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and general computer literacy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable, punctual, and professional demeanor.
• Discretion with confidential and pre-release information; adherence to all organizational policies, including confidentiality, data handling, and workplace safety standards.
• Prior office or customer service experience is a plus but not required.

Internship: minimum 16 hours per week, in person, Alexandria, VA. You are allowed to work up to 40 hours a week with limited overtime opportunities.

Every intern completes the program's five core competencies and attends the annual conference. Expect a written midpoint review, weekly one-on-one supervision, and a documented portfolio of completed work.