Government Affairs Internship
America’s Poison Center – Government Affairs
Fall 2026 | September 8 to December 4
America’s Poison Centers represent the nation’s 53 Poison Centers. Through the national Poison Help line (1-800-222-1222) and website, PoisonHelp.org, our mission is to provide the nation with expert clinical advice available 24/7/365, at no cost.
We have established partnerships with federal agencies, non-profits, and private industry supporting national surveillance, public health initiatives, and poisoning prevention and education campaigns. Poison Centers handle more than 2 million cases annually and are on the front lines of responding to emerging public health threats, such as opioids and COVID-19.
We are looking for a collaborative, highly organized, proactive intern with knowledge and/or experience of the federal legislative process and building coalitions. You will join a group of highly skilled professionals focused on advancing public health in a collaborative and supportive work environment.
• Internship responsibilities:
o Assist in researching key advocacy areas.
o Assist in the development and writing of reports and policy materials.
o Help draft and prepare materials for distribution.
o Attend, take notes, and report back on congressional hearings and other Washington, DC policy events as assigned such as briefings.
o Monitor pending, and proposed legislation.
o Participate in meetings or calls and produce summaries.
o Assist in researching, forecasting, and evaluating the effects of public policy on our members.
o Attend various Congressional meetings
o Participate in group meetings.
o Other duties as assigned.
• Expectations:
o Availability to work approximately 20 hours/week
o Available to work from our Arlington, VA office, aligned with a mutually agreed upon schedule
o Beginning September 8, 2026 – December 4, 2026 (12 weeks)
o This position is unpaid, but Metro benefits available
o America’s Poison Centers is willing to help interns obtain academic credit if available through their school
• Resources, training, and feedback
o Intern will receive a comprehensive orientation, including an introduction to America’s Poison Centers, the individual poison centers, and various other departments.
o Intern will report to the National Director of Government Affairs
o In addition to ongoing, real-time feedback, the intern will receive a formal evaluation at the end of their internship experience to highlight areas of strength and recommend any areas for future growth
• Job Requirements
o Rising junior, or senior in an undergraduate degree program or recent graduate in public policy, public administration, public health, or a related program
o Strong writing, editing, analytical, and research skills with a focus on details
o Excellent verbal and written communication skills
o Demonstrably quick study and independent, inquisitive learner
Flexible work approach: must be able to work productively in a team environment, as well as under minimal supervision. Please submit your resume, and a writing sample to Employment3@poisoncenters.org with “Government Affairs Internship” as the subject line. Applications are due by August 17, 2026.
