Senate Office Internship

Senator Balkema District Office Internship

Position Summary

Interns play a vital role in advancing the Senator’s priorities for District 53 and the State of Illinois. Working closely with the Legislative Assistant, Strategy Manager and the Chief of Staff, Interns support legislative agendas, communications, and district operations. This role provides hands-on experience in government, public policy, and constituent engagement, while developing strong leadership and professional skills.

Key Responsibilities

Research & Analytical Support

• Conduct legislative and policy research to support staff and prepare materials for hearings or legislative sessions.
• Analyze agency budgets and assist in the development of proposals for the state
• budget.
• Respond to research requests from team members.
• Draft summaries and reviews of documents necessary to advance legislation.

Legislative Support

• Track and analyze bill data throughout the legislative process.
• Participate in Senate committee hearings, meetings, and public sessions.
• Assist with legislative strategy and policy development.
• Engage with constituents to understand their legislative requests.

Constituent Services

• Respond to constituent emails, letters, and inquiries.
• Assist with constituent casework and provide updates on state resource
• opportunities and legislative issues.
• Support community outreach and district engagement efforts.

Administrative & Office Support

• Answer phones, manage databases, and coordinate meetings.
• Maintain organized documentation and workflow for office operations.
• Provide general administrative support to staff.
• Build relationships with legislators, lobbyists, agency officials, and contractors.

Potential Specialized Assignments

(Assigned based on skills and interests)

• Support Policy Team: Conduct in-depth legal research, analyze proposed legislation, and draft legal or policy briefs.
• Support Communications Team: Assist with media relations, tracking press activity, and helping prepare the Senator’s communication materials.
• Support Events Team: Support community outreach events and collaborate with community representatives and local organizations.

Qualifications & Skills

• Strong organizational, multitasking, and time-management abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with high attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), workflow software and office management tools.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and sound judgment.
• Professional, compassionate, and committed to continuous improvement and public service.

Compensation, Location & Time Commitment

• Compensation: $15–$20 per hour, based on experience
• Location: Flexibility inside District 53 with time spent in Springfield
• Hours: 10–15 hours per week
• Benefits: Internship positions do not include benefits