Spring 2027 Leadership and Program Delivery Intern

Application Deadline is October 19.

For Spring 2027, the Partnership will prioritize hiring interns from the following schools: 

• Florida International University 
• George Mason University
• Ohio State University – John Glenn College of Public Affairs and the Washington Academic Internship Program (WAIP)
• Syracuse University – Maxwell School of Public Affairs
• Trinity Washington University 
• University of California schools – UCDC Washington Center Program
• University of Maryland
• University of Michigan 
• University of Pennsylvania 
• University of Texas at Austin – LBJ School of Public Affairs

This is a DC-based hybrid position. Interns must reside and have a permanent address in the Washington Metropolitan Region for the duration of their internship.

ORGANIZATION 

The Partnership for Public Service is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to building a better government and a stronger democracy. We believe that our future and our democracy depend on our ability to solve big problems—and that we need an effective federal government to do so. For 25 years, we have helped make this vision a reality by helping our government—the public institution most fundamental to our democracy—address current and future challenges.

Our staff is diverse in experience and perspective, but at our core, we share a lot of the same traits. We are mission-driven, creative, collaborative, optimistic and inclusive.

Our work is strategic, fast-paced and guided by our values:

• Passion for public service and our work toward a more effective government.
• People who promote a culture of learning, leadership, collaboration, inclusion and respect.
• Persistence to drive change, take strategic risks and deliver results.
• Promise to be trustworthy, nonpartisan and fiscally responsible.

We hire smart and friendly people who are great at what they do and good to one another in the process.

POSITION OVERVIEW 

The Public Service Leadership Institute (PSLI) hosts and delivers programs, convenings and training sessions that aim to develop strong government leaders, engage employees, encourage innovation and build participants’ government networks. PSLI is looking for interns to help support our leadership development and business development. Interns are assigned to one primary focus area, with limited exposure to other team activities.  

PSLI interns have the unique opportunity to develop leadership and project management skills by assisting in the delivery of programs for government employees. They will also have the opportunity to learn from senior government leaders as they discuss the implementation of policy changes, including efforts to enhance government efficiency, the use of artificial intelligence, and other initiatives.  

Additional responsibilities may include researching leadership and innovation topics; assisting with event agendas, timelines and speaker preparation; drafting event recaps and social media content; supporting the rollout of eLearning courses through the organization’s LMS platform; and contributing to marketing and outreach efforts, including LinkedIn. Interns may also gain exposure to business development activities that support PSLI and related leadership programs.  

 Through this internship, participants develop skills in project management, event planning, research, communication, customer service and professional conduct. At the end of their term, interns will walk away with a greater understanding of how the government works and how government employees can lead at every level. The ideal candidate must possess strong written and verbal communication skills, effective time management skills, attention to detail, proven customer service experience, and proficiency in using the Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with Canva, content creation or project management tools is a plus. Interest in public service, leadership development and the applied, nontechnical use of AI in government is preferred. 

WORK ENVIRONMENT 

This job operates in a professional office environment in Washington, DC and occasionally at local external venues. This position requires consistent use of office equipment such as computer, telephone, printer and scanner.  

The Partnership adheres to all federal, state and local employment laws.

COMPENSATION

Full-time interns at 40 hours a week will receive $2,000 per month. Part-time intern compensation will be pro-rated accordingly.
 

LOCATION

This is a DC-based hybrid position. Interns must reside and have a permanent address in the Washington Metropolitan Region for the duration of their internship. 

This is a hybrid internship, with an expectation of on-site work approximately two days per week once office space is available. One on-site day is typically Wednesday. 
 

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK   

Business hours are Monday-Friday, 9 am to 6 pm, though exact work hours may vary depending on availability and need. Academic schedules will be accommodated; a part-time schedule may be considered. There may be occasional early morning or evening activities required.

TRAVEL 

If travel occurs, it is usually during the business day.   

RECRUITMENT PROCESS

The timeline for applicant review and selection may vary depending on the size of the applicant pool. Priority consideration will be given to applications received by Oct. 19. Applications may remain open after that date based on hiring needs. Applications are not reviewed on a rolling basis. We will begin reviewing applications on Oct. 19 and strive to complete virtual interviews and extend offers within approximately one month of that date.

Apply to one of our other positions! 

• Communication and Public Engagement Internship
• Fundraising Internship
• Human Resources Internship
• Leadership and Program Delivery Internship
• Public Policy and Stakeholder Engagement Internship
• Recruitment and Employee Engagement Internship