About the role#
The Legislative Affairs Intern supports the Director of Legislative Affairs at the Colorado Department of Higher Education during the 2027 legislative session. This is an entry-level, temporary position that offers hands-on experience with the state legislative process. You will gain professional development opportunities while assisting with the daily tasks necessary for a successful session.
What you'll do#
- Track, read, and summarize legislation and bill amendments that have policy or fiscal impacts.
- Monitor and attend legislative committees and bill hearings, providing updates to the Director and Departmental staff.
- Conduct real-time policy analysis of Colorado legislation and state statutes.
- Perform research and draft reports, briefings, memos, and studies on higher education issues.
- Support the development of communications, including issue briefs, talking points, and fact sheets.
- Assist with stakeholder engagement, including developing agendas for Higher Education Lobby meetings and coordinating logistics for testimony.
- Help reconcile legislative funding decisions and program budgets.
- Support reporting requirements for the Department’s Wildly Important Goals and SMART Act.
- Shadow Department employees and attend Colorado Commission on Higher Education meetings.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a degree-seeking program at a Colorado institution of higher education.
- At least six months of work experience in any capacity.
- Strong interest in public service.
- Ability to commute to the Department office and the Colorado State Capitol in Denver.
- Preferred: Master's or higher degree pursuit in political science, public policy, or a similar field.
- Preferred: Completed coursework in policy analysis and prior experience in the field.
- Preferred: Knowledge of Colorado’s political landscape, legislative process, and higher education issues.
- Preferred: Ability to maintain neutrality and confidentiality, communicate effectively, think critically, and demonstrate a strong work ethic.
Location & details#
- This is an on-site position based in Denver, Colorado.
- This is a paid, part-time, term-limited role for the Spring 2027 term.
- You must be available to work a minimum of 20 hours per week during regular office hours, Monday through Friday.
About State of Colorado
The State of Colorado operates as a government agency providing services to its constituents. It manages the judicial, legislative, and executive branches of the state government. Founded in 1876, the organization maintains its headquarters in Denver. It employs over 10,001 people across its various departments.
How to get in at State of Colorado
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