Emerging Talent Communications Internship - Public Affairs, Policy & Real Estate (Fall 2026)

Responsibilities

• As an intern, you'll...
• Conduct research and monitor industry, market, and media trends
• Draft content, reports, presentations, and communications materials
• Support client and internal projects from planning through execution
• Participate in meetings, brainstorming sessions, client calls, and events
• Collaborate across teams on integrated initiatives
• Gain exposure to strategic communications and public affairs in a fast-paced agency environment

Requirements

• Required:
• A bachelor's degree (or be graduating before the internship start date)
• Prior internship or relevant work experience in the selected practice area
• Strong writing, research, analytical, and communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office
• Digital fluency and eagerness to learn new platforms
• A strong interest in communications, marketing, public affairs, policy, or related fields
• HOW TO APPLY
• To be considered, applicants must submit:
• Resume (1-2 pages)
• Highlight relevant professional, academic, internship, volunteer, or extracurricular experience.
• Application Form
• As part of the application, candidates will be asked to select one practice area of interest and complete a brief essay (500 words or less) describing how their experiences have prepared them for success in that area and why they are interested in pursuing a career

Additional Information

ABOUT ORCHESTRA Orchestra is a strategic communications and marketing company built for today's complex and fragmented world. From decoding audiences to designing bold strategies, Orchestra integrates people, platforms, and stories that stick to help clients build lasting influence. The company offers programs that span from the highest level strategic business counsel through to tactical execution. Orchestra brings together 700+ people with experience across consumer and lifestyle, technology, nonprofit and philanthropy, real estate, sports, travel, hospitality, and more. Made up of leading firms BerlinRosen , Civitas Public Affairs Group , Derris , Glen Echo Group , Inkhouse , M18 , Message Lab , Onward , and Small Girls PR. Orchestra also launched Brightmode , a talent acquisition firm for communications professionals, and Versus Media Group , a strategy-first political media team. Learn more at www.orchestraco.com . People of all backgrounds and abilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Orchestra is committed to building and maintaining a diverse staff, and recognizes that its continued success depends on hiring and retaining high-quality creative professionals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Opportunities for advancement exist, and we are committed to helping all staff develop and grow. ABOUT THE INTERNSHIP Orchestra is seeking highly motivated individuals to join our Fall 2026 Emerging Talent Post-Grad Communications Internship Program. This hands-on opportunity for recent college graduates provides meaningful experience across strategic communications, public affairs, media engagement, and brand storytelling. Duration: August 25 - December 18, 2026 Location: Hybrid internship based in New York, NY or Washington, DC. Minimum 3 days per week in-office. Compensation: $18/hour This internship offers the potential for permanent, full-time employment. While full-time opportunities may become available, they are not guaranteed and are contingent upon individual performance and the company's hiring needs at the time. COMMUNICATIONS INTERNSHIP PRACTICE AREAS The Orchestra Post-Graduate Communications Internship Program is organized into several practice areas. Applicants should apply to one practice area and will be considered only for that area based on their background, interests, and prior experience. Practice areas include: Integrated Marketing Philanthropy & Impact Public Affairs (Policy & Real Estate) Arts, Lifestyle & Hospitality Consumer, Sports & Technology THIS OPPORTUNITY: PUBLIC AFFAIRS, POLICY & REAL ESTATE This internship is part of Orchestra's Public Affairs, Policy & Real Estate practice area. Interns in this practice area work alongside communications professionals to support strategic communications campaigns that help organizations navigate complex public, political, and community-facing issues. Work may include government relations, public policy communications, real estate development and land use initiatives, housing and economic development projects, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach efforts. Successful candidates will demonstrate an interest in public affairs, policy, politics, advocacy, government, urban affairs, real estate, housing, or related fields. Important Eligibility Requirement To be considered, applicants must have already graduated (or be graduating before the internship begins) and have prior internship or relevant work experience in their selected practice area.

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