Government Relations & Public Policy Internship

Seattle Children's Hospital•Seattle, WA

About The Position

The Government Relations & Public Policy Internship honors the legacy of U.S. Congressman Jim McDermott, M.D., who represented Washington’s 7th District from 1989 to 2017 and had a 40-year government career. Interns gain direct experience and skills in community health, advocacy, public policy, research, and analysis. They collaborate with colleagues, work on substantive projects with experienced mentors, build professional networks, and participate in career development activities. Training includes an orientation to Seattle Children’s and meaningful exposure to work related to community health, government, political science, social services, and other related fields. The role supports government affairs advocacy across Seattle Children’s hospital, research institute, and foundation.

Requirements

Must be at least 18 years of age.
Be in the senior year of college, recently graduated, or enrolled in a graduate program.
Experience tracking data and preparing reports using Word, Excel, and/or Access.
Experience providing administrative support and/or customer service.
Ability to effectively problem-solve and handle moderately to highly complex issues in standard or emergent situations, and to be innovative and creative.
Ability to work with a diverse group of people in a fast-paced environment with frequent interruptions.
Ability to work independently, prioritize work from multiple sources, and participate effectively as a team member.

Nice To Haves

An in-progress master’s degree or equivalent in political science, public health, communications, social work, or government.
Dedication, creativity, and curiosity.

Responsibilities

Conduct research and develop policy proposals, messaging, and advocacy strategies.
Provide the team and lobbyists with timely research, analysis, written materials, and briefings on relevant issues.
Track, monitor, and analyze proposed and existing policies related to pediatric health, health care, hospitals, and child well-being; assess their impact and recommend positions and strategies to the government relations team.
Track pending policy proposals through legislative, regulatory, and other policy-development processes, including triaging new bills.
Help advance government affairs advocacy efforts across the hospital, research institute, and foundation.
Support event planning and organizing, and prepare information.