TriMet's Government Relations team is seeking a Summer 2025 Intern!
This team manages ongoing inter-government relations and for long-range funding, policy development and implementation with local, regional, state and federal legislative and administrative officials.
As an Intern, you will focus on tracking, analyzing, and reporting on local government transportation policies and initiatives of the local governments within the TriMet service district. This includes monitoring city council agendas, attending relevant public meetings, and synthesizing developments in transportation planning that impact TriMet operations.
You will also assist the government affairs department in their efforts to respond to and address operational and safety and security related issues brought to our attention from city and county elected officials and staff.
This role will include all 24 cities and three counties TriMet's service area, including the newly elected government for the City of Portland.
Additional responsibilities may include responding to constituent service requests from legislators, and drafting informational updates for state and local elected officials.
This is a great opportunity to gain an in-depth understanding of local government affairs and policy-making processes among the cities and counties within TriMet’s service district, as well as develop skills in policy analysis, communication, and issue resolution within the framework of a government affairs department.
TriMet's Internships are excellent opportunities to build skills, gain experience, develop connections with industry professionals and develop work samples for a portfolio. Relevant experience is useful, but most important is a willingness and excitement to learn.
This Internship is performed in-person. Applicants must be available to work in-person in the Portland Metro region of Oregon.
This posting will close February 28th, 2025 at 5pm PST or when a candidate is selected.
Ensure a commitment to safety through consistent and professional behaviors in performance of job requirements that demonstrate safety is a fundamental value that guides all aspects of our work. Perform related duties as required.
Serve as a good steward of TriMet by regularly utilizing our transit system to maintain a strong and current understanding of customers’ experiences and of TriMet’s product and service offerings.
Essential Functions
- Classify, store, and secure information, ensuring data integrity and confidentiality in line with TriMet’s policies, while being overseen by the Public Affairs Records Governance Liaison.
- Participate and sometimes facilitate coordination with agency internal groups in other divisions within TriMet, well as external partners such as those from public agencies.
- Participate in department meetings, taking notes and following up on action items.
- Supporting projects & initiatives.
- Performing other job-related duties as required.
Position Requirements
Be a current or upcoming Junior or Senior pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Business, Marketing, Journalism, Political Science, Public relations or related field. Current Grad students or recent graduates in the past 12 months will also be considered.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Selection Criteria
Type of Position / Grade / FLSA
Non-Exempt, Non-Union, Full-Time (40 hours/week), Temporary. Internships will run May/June through August/September.
Wage
Interns will be paid $21/hour
Selection Process
Candidates will be selected based at a minimum on the result of:
1. Application Review (please include: Cover Letter and Resume)
2. Panel Interview