Legislative Intern

Title: Legislative Intern

Employee Classification: Other

Institution: System Office

Department: Government & Public Relations, Office of External Affairs

Campus Location: Tennessee Board of Regents System Office

Job Summary

This internship offers a unique opportunity for a college student interested in government, public policy, communications, or higher education to gain firsthand experience during the Tennessee General Assembly's annual legislative session. Working directly with the Director of Legislation and Advancement and the Government & Public Relations team, the intern will play an important role in supporting the department during its busiest and most dynamic time of year.
The primary responsibilities of the internship include monitoring legislative committee meetings and other legislative proceedings, tracking legislation, and following key issues and discussions that impact higher education and the Tennessee Board of Regents system. The intern will also assist with scheduling meetings and campus visits involving legislators, government officials, and other stakeholders. Additional responsibilities include providing support for major advocacy and recognition events, including TBR Day on the Hill and SOAR events, while assisting the team with other projects and assignments as needed.

This is a paid, hybrid internship that combines work at TBR offices, remote work, and occasional assignments at other locations. Because legislative activity often moves quickly and schedules can change with little notice, some days may require additional hours during the legislative session.

The internship will conclude two weeks after the adjournment of the Tennessee General Assembly's annual legislative session.

This position is ideal for students seeking hands-on experience with the legislative process, public affairs, government relations, and the intersection of public policy and higher education.

Job Duties

• 45% - Legislative bill tracking and research; supporting Government & Public Relations staff - (Essential)
• 25% - Administrative support tasks, research, meeting prep, staff support at System Office - (Essential)
• 25% - Facilitating Capitol Hill visits, including TBR Day on the Hill, and assisting dignitaries/staff/visitors on behalf of the TBR - (Essential)
• 5% - Other duties as assigned by Government & Public Relations Department staff and/or other External Affairs leaders/staff. - (Marginal)

Minimum Qualifications

• Enrolled in, or a recent graduate of, a public or private college or university, including a Tennessee College of Applied Technology;
• Interest in state government and/or higher education issues;
• Flexibility to work odd and/or extended hours during the legislative session; and
• Reliable form of transportation to/from TBR System Office, Capitol Complex, and (occasionally) other locations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience as a community college or technical college student;
• Office work experience; and
• Major in law, political science, history, public administration, social work, economics, sociology, journalism, or related fields.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to record accurate information for dissemination internally;
• Ability to thoroughly, and sometimes quickly, research policy issues and present findings to team members and other staff;
• Strong sense of detail in organizing activities, events, and one’s own work;
• Understanding of and strong comfort level with administrative office tasks: handling phones, office technology, schedules, organization of information, etc.;
• Professional appearance and ability to communicate clearly, professionally, and respectfully through verbal and written means;
• Ability to understand and maintain confidential information; and
• Basic understanding of state government and the legislative process.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions

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