Fall 2026 Public Relations Internship Program: Microsoft Corporate, External and Legal Affairs (CELA)

We. Communications • Seattle, WA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

This 16-week Fall 2026 internship program (Monday, August 24, through Friday, December 11) is a paid, full-time internship ($22 an hour) designed to provide valuable experiences that build a strong communications foundation for entry-level employees. Interns receive customized industry and agency training, individualized coaching and feedback, and networking opportunities with peers and agency leadership. They also have the chance to develop a sense of belonging with a cohort of peers through one-on-one mentorship and the agency’s employee resource groups. As a Microsoft CELA intern, you will support work that shapes and protects the company’s reputation by advancing communications and programs across issues like sustainability, accessibility, public policy, responsible AI, privacy and security, and community impact. Interns research, analyze media trends, support client work, and build strategic skills to manage reporter inquiries and coverage. Eligible interns must work Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and commute to the office every Tuesday, Wednesday and one other day of their choice each week. Note: Teams may have additional requirements. Candidates must live within commuting distance to the following office: Bellevue, WA Applications close Sunday, July 12, at 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time. Resumes received after that date will be considered for future programs.

Requirements

• Passionate communicators and committed learners who align with our values: inclusion, accountability, collaboration and courage.
• Enthusiastic, reliable collaborators with initiative.
• Excellent written communication and strong analytical skills.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills.
• Ability to manage complex projects, perform under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Work well with diverse groups and all levels of colleagues.
• Committed to delivering quality media support to colleagues and clients.

Nice To Haves

• One year of professional experience or prior experience in communications or a related field.
• Available 40 hours per week, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite: Teams, Outlook, SharePoint and OneDrive.
• Able to commute to the office three days a week.
• Demonstrate proficiency in the following areas: Initiative-driven, resourceful and accountable.
• Excellent written communication and strong analytical skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.
• Accountability and adaptability in ambiguous, stressful situations.
• Incorporate feedback to demonstrate progress and enhance performance.

Responsibilities

• Understand the significance of strategic communication in achieving clients’ business objectives.
• Discover strategies for building client relationships and engaging with influencers through effective communication.
• Build media relations skills and develop the ability to recognize significant and emerging trends for clients.
• Understand clients’ products, communication plans and the team’s strategies and tactics to help clients connect with their target audiences.
• Collaborate with the We. team to address client inquiries, manage editorial and analyst requests, develop compelling story concepts, pitch stories to journalists and strategize for significant events.
• Assist in organizing and coordinating press activities, including press tours, analyst tours and on-site visits.
• Support the development and distribution of news and announcements across various media platforms.
• Develop a deep sense of teamwork with colleagues across regions using Microsoft Teams technology.
• Report on relevant coverage and share insights into cultural trends.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits program including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Pretax accounts including HSA (company match), Medical & Dependent Care FSA
• Generous time off including PTO, Holidays, Annual Wellness Break, Summer Fridays and Personal Days
• Short & Long-Term Disability, paid by company
• Parental Leave, up to 12 weeks for birthing and non-birthing parent
• Caregiver Leave, up to 2 weeks to help eligible family member with serious health condition
• Community Engagement, up to 24 hours
• Bi-annual Wellness Credits, up to $300 per year
• Support with home office equipment
• Monthly Technology Credit (to offset internet / phone costs)
• 401(k) Traditional and Roth options with company match
• Learning and Development Programs for our employees

What This Job Offers

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