Public & Government Affairs Internship

Hello!

Unleash your potential by joining our team with a Public & Government Affairs Internship. At PERA, you can support those who have supported you whether it’s a favorite teacher, the snowplow driver that cleared winter roads or the state trooper who let you off with a warning. Chances are these people who make a difference are PERA members and you can make a difference to those who have helped you.

JOB SUMMARY

Colorado PERA seeks a dedicated and passionate Public & Government Affairs intern to provide assistance during the legislative session in support of the association’s legislative and public policy goals. The intern will assist with policy research and issues management, legislative work, grassroots advocacy efforts, along with related external and internal communications. The intern will become familiar with the role PERA plays in the legislative process and public policy arena. The duration for this internship will be January 2024 through May 2024.

IDEAL CANDIDATE

This internship will offer the opportunity to gain valuable skills, network, and learn about public policy, Government Affairs, and legislation on the state government level. The ideal candidate will be outgoing, dependable, possess strong analytical, writing, investigative, interpersonal, and communicative skills, and have the ability to multi-task and work as a team player, at times independently. Professional appearance and business attire are required.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Maintain and update list of state elected officials
• Develop briefing and presentation materials for legislative reporting committee hearings
• Observe legislative hearings and compile detailed summaries
• Monitor statements from policymakers and experts
• Formulate responses to questions and requests for information from elected officials and external partner organizations
• Assist in tracking policy issues and legislation
• Assist in scheduling meetings with the offices of Colorado legislators and other stakeholders, and prepare meeting materials
• Assist with management of volunteer program CRM and legislative tracking software
• Develop regular newsletter content and calls to action for grassroots activists in support of the legislative agenda
• Maintain and update list of community partnerships, including identifying engagement opportunities for staff
• Develop relevant messages and materials for both internal and external communications using existing channels, including website, email, and social media
• Assist with miscellaneous office tasks and projects as needed
• Maintains regular and prompt attendance in the workplace
• Performs other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong interest in government and legislative affairs
• Be detail oriented and have the ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Have excellent research, writing, and interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of Microsoft programs, databases, Word, Excel, and presentation software
• Ability to travel as necessary for business purposes

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Enrolled in a bachelor’s or higher education program related to political science, government, English, history or related field of study.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Standard office environment with regular telephone communication, computer operation, and other office productivity machinery, such as a copy and printer machine.

JOB DESCRIPTION DISCLAIMER:

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of an employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change or new ones may be assigned with or without notice.

Unfortunately, at this time, we cannot consider candidates that require sponsorship (now or in the future), or are located outside of the US.

All Colorado PERA employees are subject to PERA’s Ethics Policy and some employees are subject to the Personal Trading Policy. These policies include restrictions on outside business activities and employment and have certain requirements on personal trading.  You may request copies of these policies from PERA’s talent acquisition team and any questions can be answered by PERA’s Investment Administration team.

INTERESTED CANDIDATES
Complete the employment application online at https://www.copera.org/careers. Please have copies of your resume and cover letter available to upload.

ABOUT COLORADO PERA

Looking for a career where you can make a difference? Colorado PERA offers benefit services to public employees across Colorado, including teachers, state troopers, snowplow drivers, correctional officers and many others who provide valuable services. As Colorado’s largest pension plan, we serve and educate over 600,000 members who are former and current public employees. 

At PERA you will earn more than a paycheck. PERA is a culture where you can grow your potential and work in an inclusive environment, where diverse perspectives are valued. We hire exceptional employees and recognize that our people are our best asset. Not only do we make sound investments for our members, PERA invests in our employees’ growth through training and leadership opportunities.

To promote wellbeing, we offer hybrid or flexible working options for most roles and a total rewards and benefit program including health, dental and vision coverage - eligibility starts the first day of the month following the date of hire for most plans; generous paid time off and volunteer hours; pension and retirement plans, including PERA’s defined benefit plan, 457 defined contribution plan, and 401(k) employer match, as applicable; tuition assistance; free, convenient on-site parking or RTD subsidy; free on-site fitness center to stay active; employee assistance program; training, leadership and mentoring programs and more. PERA is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualifying employer.

To learn more about life at PERA, watch this video or visit www.copera.org/careers.

Position Title: Public & Government Affairs Internship
Division: Communications
Reports to: Public & Government Affairs Manager
Job Status: Part Time / Non-Exempt / 20 Hours per week
Salary: $21.00 - $25.00 hourly, Commensurate with experience
Posting Dates: 12/6/2023 - 12/31/2023