Trade Policy Intern
Corn Refiners Association – Trade Policy Internship
The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, ethanol, starch, advanced bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein, and fiber.
The U.S. corn refining industry is a key player in international markets due to the abundance and quality of our products. Reflecting the significance of our members’ role in the international markets, CRA provides leadership to the largest actively engaged coalition on U.S. trade policy, which advocates on a variety of leading trade issues.
Overview
The Internship Program at CRA is designed for recent university graduates, graduate students, and exceptional college juniors and seniors. Relevant experience or an academic background in international affairs, economics, international business/trade, and trade policy are most applicable to the position. The internship duration is May-August 2026.
The position will report to the Vice President of Trade and Industry Affairs, assisting with:
- Development and implementation of CRA’s trade policy agenda
- Tracking key legislation and regulatory proposals in the U.S. and key foreign governments
- Tracking and analyzing pertinent trade and industry data and metrics
- Building relationships with staff of CRA’s strategic partners
- Attending hearings and meetings on behalf of CRA and delivering an analysis of critical issues discussed
- Outreach to the CRA Trade Committee, which is comprised of all CRA member companies
- Assisting the policy staff with various initiatives and special projects
Qualifications:
- Qualified candidates should have or be working towards an undergraduate or graduate degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, Business, Economics, or related field of study
- A minimum GPA of 3.0
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Robust research and analytical acumen
- Organized, with an ability to prioritize multiple time-sensitive assignments
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
- Genuine interest in policy analysis and development
Additional Details
- CRA has a hybrid work environment. Staff work in the office Tuesday-Thursday and work remotely Monday and Friday. You will need to have a personal computer, secure internet connection, and a landline or cell phone.
- The Internship Program at CRA is a paid position of $20 per hour and travel metro reimbursement of up to $150.00. If you would like to receive credit in addition to or in lieu of wages, please consult with your department head or academic advisor. No benefits are provided.
- CRA is seeking someone with availability May-August 2026 for 25-40 hours per week. These hours can be negotiated based on class schedule.
To Apply
- Interested applicants should email their cover letter, resume, transcripts with cumulative GPA, writing sample, and contact information for 3 references to careers@corn.org using the subject line “RE: CRA Trade Policy Intern”.
- At least one reference should be a professor or academic advisor familiar with your academic record. We will contact references directly only for top candidates and only after notifying the intern candidate.
- No phone calls will be accepted.