About the role#
Public Knowledge maintains an ongoing pool of candidates for legal advocacy internships and externships. This is a general application for future openings. If a position or funding becomes available, we review candidates from this pool. Interns and externs contribute to our work promoting an open internet, balanced intellectual property rights, and competition in the communications sector.
What you'll do#
- Collaborate on strategy to shape laws and regulations regarding internet policy and communications.
- Draft legal and advocacy documents.
- Work with government relations and communications staff to execute strategy on Capitol Hill and at the Federal Communications Commission.
- Engage with other government agencies, coalitions, and the press.
- Build expertise in specific national technology or policy issues.
What you'll need#
- You must be a current law or graduate student.
- A strong interest in the policy making process, including the U.S. Congress and the executive branch.
- Demonstrated interest in public interest technology policy.
- Knowledge of internet, telecommunications, copyright, patent, privacy, or international law.
Location & details#
- This role is based on-site in Washington, DC.
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
- Internships typically last 10 weeks.
- Externship length is determined by your sponsoring school for credit.
- This is a paid position, though we often coordinate with schools or outside programs to secure funding.
About Public Knowledge
Public Knowledge is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. Founded in 2001, it focuses on public policy related to telecommunications, copyright, and internet law. The organization employs between 11 and 50 people. Its work centers on promoting an open internet, freedom of expression, and access to affordable communication tools.
How to get in at Public Knowledge
Applying early is a distinct advantage at Public Knowledge, as recruiters often review the first wave of candidates 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 timing often makes the difference in whether your resume is read or remains in the pile. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the people managing these roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company's roles so you can ask about the position or request a referral. Connecting with the right person helps you stand out from the automated queue.
