Title: Public Affairs & Policy Intern Location: Ashburn, Virginia, United States Department: Commercial Employment Type: FullTime
Job Description: About Overview EnergyOverview Energy is a mission-driven team committed to building a new layer of energy infrastructure: satellites in geosynchronous orbit that redirect solar energy to terrestrial solar projects via passively safe near-infrared light. We're in the earliest phase, where the operating concept and every warfighter conversation helps to define how this technology is used. Headquartered in the Northern Virginia / Washington, DC area and backed by world-class investors, we are advancing the next generation of clean energy technology.About the RoleWe're looking for a Public Affairs & Policy Intern to answer a question nobody has answered yet: what rules govern space solar energy operations, and how does a warfighter actually operate the system?In support of a Department of War (DoW) energy investment program, you'll research the policy landscape for space and beacon operations and turn it into concrete CONOPS language. You'll research DoW sites for present and future testing. And you'll build the material that makes this technology legible to the people who would use it to feed our broader space solar energy operational guide.What You'll DoResearch U.S. policy and regulation governing space operations and ground-based beacon operations, and translate it into CONOPS language the engineering team can design againstIdentify and profile DoW sites for present and future testing, including access, airspace, and environmental considerationsSupport warfighter engagement: prepare briefing material, capture feedback in the room, and route it back into CONOPS and designDraft an operator manual written for the warfighter, not the engineerCreate warfighter and DoW engagement materials that make an unfamiliar technology easy to understand quicklyTrack DoW expectations against what we're producing, and flag gaps earlyWhat We're Looking For From YouCurrently enrolled in a bachelor's or master's program in public policy, government, international affairs, communications, or a closely related fieldDemonstrated interest in defense, space, or energy policy - coursework, clubs, writing, or prior internships all countClear, fast writing for non-expert audiences: you can turn a dense directive into a paragraph an operator will actually readComfortable with primary source research - statute, DoW directives, and federal regulatory frameworks Able to commit 3-5 hours per week from September 2026 through March 2027 with potential extended work time based on the needs of the program; schedule is flexibleWe Have a Strong Preference ForROTC participation, prior military service, or coursework in military operations and doctrineInternship or fellowship experience on Capitol Hill, in the Executive Branch, or with DoWExperience producing briefing-grade materials: one-pagers, decks, manuals, or visual explainersFamiliarity with laser safety, space systems, and/or airspace coordinationInterest in a longer-term career in the Executive Branch or the militaryInternship DetailsThis is a paid, part-time internship running September 2026 through March 2027 at 3-5 hours per week, with a flexible schedule and hybrid work out of our Northern Virginia headquarters. Hourly rate: $30-$40.You'll be mentored directly by the team leading our government engagement, and your work is a funded DoW deliverable, not a side project.ITAR RequirementsThis position is subject to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Candidates must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.Equal Opportunity EmployerOverview Energy is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other legally protected status.If you require a reasonable accommodation during the application process, please contact us at shows that women and individuals from underrepresented groups often only apply for roles where they meet every listed qualification. If you believe you can succeed in this role, we encourage you to apply - even if you don't check every box.
About Overview Energy
Overview Energy operates in the space research and technology sector. The company develops satellites designed to capture sunlight in orbit and transmit it to the power grid on Earth. It maintains a focus on providing a continuous solar energy resource. Founded in 2022, the organization is based in Ashburn, Virginia, and employs between 11 and 50 people.
How to get in at Overview Energy
Applying to Overview Energy early is a distinct advantage, as hiring managers often review candidates in the order they arrive before the applicant pool becomes unmanageable. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, ensuring you can submit your materials among the first. This helps you avoid the common frustration of applying to a role that has already been filled or overlooked. Intern Insider also surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can reach out directly to ask about the position or a referral. Connecting with a human at Overview Energy often improves your response rates compared to submitting an application into a queue. It is a practical way to stand out when you are competing for a limited number of spots.
