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Office of Public Affairs International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce

Are you interested in international trade, diplomacy, and global business topics? Looking to

build a portfolio chocked-full of writing samples that include press releases, blogs, social media posts, and more? If so, an exciting internship awaits you in Washington, DC!

Internship Description:

The International Trade Administration’s Office of Public Affairs works with government

leaders, trade specialists, and commercial diplomats in 50 states and 75 countries to

communicate our important mission of promoting U.S. exports abroad and attracting foreign

investment into our communities. From journalists to trade organizations to think-tanks and top industry sectors, ITA has many audiences that rely on our services and data, and we help our experts master the message for any occasion. The intern will be a part of a team responsible for media relations, social media content creation and calendar management, public engagement clearances, internal messages, interagency coordination on public messaging, and more.

General duties of the position include:

• Assisting with drafting and editing social media content to include tweets, blogs, and

LinkedIn posts;

• Researching and vetting inquiries received via phone and e-mail and distribute

accordingly;

• Compiling daily news clips that help inform top ITA leadership of breaking news;

• Regular office reporting to leadership and the Department’s OPA;

• Facilitating clearance of public engagements for ITA staff; and

• Assisting in the coordination of various assignments from top officials in the Department

of Commerce.

Some examples of materials and projects an ITA OPA intern would assist with in summer 2022 are communication plans for DOC and ITA officials as they travel the world to meet global leaders, World Trade Month social media planning, pre-planning and attending the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, DC, and more. This is an unpaid internship. Interns will receive D.C. Metro stipends to cover the cost of commuting to/from work.

Qualifications:

Ideal candidates have an interest in journalism/communications, public policy, international

relations, trade, or business; excellent writing and organizational skills; computer skills (e.g. MS Office, SharePoint, social media platforms, graphic design skills are a plus); and are currently enrolled in a university program. The candidate should be self-motivated, able to work in a fast paced environment, and be able to handle multiple competing priorities. The position is part of a team and requires frequent and effective communication and coordination. 

 Applications can be sent to Erika.Czyz@trade.gov.