IRC Wichita Policy Intern Spring 2027

International Rescue Committee • Wichita, KS

9d

About The Position

The Policy Intern supports the International Rescue Committee’s work to understand policy developments affecting refugees, immigrants, and other displaced populations, with particular attention to Kansas and the surrounding region. Working with IRC staff, the intern conducts policy research, monitors legislative and regulatory developments, analyzes policies, prepares written materials, and supports community engagement and advocacy initiatives. The role helps strengthen the organization’s understanding of the policy landscape and communicate how policy decisions affect the communities IRC serves.

The internship provides hands-on experience in public policy, research, and advocacy within an international humanitarian organization. The intern will gain exposure to federal, state, and local policy processes; refugee resettlement, immigration, and newcomer integration; and the connections between policy and direct service delivery. Learning opportunities include developing research, analytical, data interpretation, professional writing, stakeholder research, policy communication, and evidence-based decision-making skills.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree, or be a recent graduate.
• Strong research, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple assignments.
• Ability to synthesize information from multiple sources and communicate findings clearly and concisely.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office programs, particularly Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Interest in immigration, refugee resettlement, humanitarian assistance, social services, or public policy.
• Ability to work independently, collaborate effectively with a team, and seek guidance when needed.
• Commitment to the IRC's mission and the principles of dignity, inclusion, and equitable access to opportunity.

Nice To Haves

• Students pursuing degrees in public policy, political science, public administration, public health, international relations, sociology, economics, nonprofit management, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

• Research federal, state, and local policies affecting refugees, immigrants, and other newcomer populations, including resettlement, health care access, employment, education, housing, and integration services.
• Monitor legislative proposals, regulatory changes, executive actions, and other policy developments relevant to IRC programs and the communities it serves.
• Assist in drafting policy briefs, background memos, issue summaries, talking points, and reports.
• Collect and organize quantitative and qualitative information to support policy research, identify emerging trends, and assess potential effects of policy changes on newcomer communities.
• Research policymakers, government agencies, advocacy organizations, and community partners to identify opportunities for collaboration and information sharing.
• Assist with preparing materials for policy meetings, community briefings, stakeholder convenings, and advocacy initiatives, as appropriate.
• Identify policies, programs, and resources that affect refugee and immigrant integration in Kansas and the surrounding region.
• Collaborate with IRC staff across programs to gather information, understand community needs, and connect policy developments with direct service work.
• Support other policy, research, and advocacy initiatives as needed and as feasible.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed