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POSITION SUMMARY

The Council for Quality Growth is seeking two independent, motivated individuals to serve as Spring 2026 Policy Interns. These internships are structured, professional learning opportunities designed to provide hands-on exposure to the real-world development of public policy affecting growth and development in metro Atlanta and across Georgia. Policy Interns will work directly with the Council’s Policy and Government Affairs team on active local and state policy initiatives related to land use, zoning, housing, transportation and transit, infrastructure, water, environmental regulation, permitting, and governance. Interns will support research, writing, advocacy preparation, and stakeholder engagement while gaining professional experience in a policy-focused nonprofit environment.


ABOUT THE COUNCIL FOR QUALITY GROWTH

The Council for Quality Growth is a non-profit trade organization representing the growth and development industry across metro Atlanta and Georgia. The Council brings together private-sector leaders and public officials to promote balanced, responsible growth that supports economic vitality and quality of life. Through advocacy, education, and convening, the Council actively participates in the formulation of public policy affecting land use, zoning, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and environmental regulation at the local, regional, and state levels.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Policy Interns will support the Council’s Policy and Government Affairs team through a combination of research, writing, event support, and project-based work. Responsibilities can include:

 Researching and analyzing public policy issues impacting growth and development
 Monitoring and reporting on local & state government meetings, hearings, and legislative activity
 Supporting advisory meetings, briefings, and events with local government officials and staff
 Engaging with elected officials, government staff, and Council members through programming
 Preparing and maintaining internal policy tracking materials and strategic contacts
 Assisting with day-to-day operations of the Policy and Government Affairs team
QUALIFICATIONS

The most successful candidates will demonstrate strong analytical skills, professionalism, and interest in public policy. Qualifications include:
 Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree program
 Preferred fields of study include Public Policy, Political Science, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Communications, English, Public Health, or Public Relations
 Other relevant fields welcomed include Economics, Environmental Studies, Environmental Design
or Engineering, Law, Real Estate, and Business Administration
 Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
 Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines
 Interest in local and state government, planning, or development policy
 Professional demeanor and ability to represent the Council with external stakeholders
 Reliable transportation to and from CQG Office in Sandy Springs is required. Occasionally off-site meetings can occur.


TIME COMMITMENT & FORMAT

The internship is approximately 10 weeks in duration and requires approximately 18 to 20 hours per week, set up with flexibility to the applicants existing class schedule and needs. Internships will begin in late February/early March and run until early/mid May. The position is primarily in-person.
Interns are expected to attend Council meetings, events, and relevant public hearings. The internship is paid through an honorarium at the completion of the program in recognition of their successful work in our program.


PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Policy Interns are exposed to the Council’s extensive membership, including professionals across the development, engineering, planning, and public policy sectors. Interns are expected to act professionally and lean into the Council’s policy agenda while gaining valuable experience, mentorship, and industry insight.


APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Interested applicants should submit a resume via email.

Contact:
Matt Yarbrough
Director of Policy and Government Affairs Council for Quality Growth
Email: my@councilforqualitygrowth.org

Application Deadline:
Resumes will be accepted through end of day Friday, February 6, 2026.

The Council for Quality Growth is committed to fostering inclusive, thriving communities and providing meaningful professional development opportunities.