HIAS Washington DC: Policy Intern

HIAS’ Washington DC office plays a crucial role in implementing the agency’s refugee and immigrant protection agenda. This work involves advocacy in the immigrant and refugee policy arena before the Congress, the Executive Branch, and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

A primary function of the HIAS Washington DC office is to educate and advocate HIAS’ positions to Washington policy makers. HIAS DC also participates actively in coalitions concerned with immigration and refugee affairs and related concerns to develop and implement advocacy strategies to promote our goals.

An intern in the HIAS DC office will be involved in our efforts to advocate for generous and just immigration policies in Congress and the Administration. Responsibilities include: researching issues relating to immigration, refugees, and asylum seekers; helping plan and implement events for HIAS Young Leaders; monitoring and reporting on Congressional hearings, legislative affairs, and news stories of concern to HIAS; and performing administrative tasks.

Qualifications:
A successful candidate will have a strong interest in government affairs, the role of faith-based advocacy, and event planning. Prior knowledge of refugee, asylum and immigrant issues a plus, but more important is the desire to learn about such issues. An interest in working in the Jewish community is also a plus. The candidate must have a professional demeanor, possess strong writing and research skills, and be able to work independently on a wide variety of administrative as well as policy-oriented tasks. Someone with a flexible schedule who could spend at least 15 hours per week in the office would be preferred.

Internship positions for Summer 2010 have been filled. To apply for Fall 2010, please email your cover letter, resume, and references to yelena.serebrenik@hias.org. Please include the days and times you would be able to work each week, and the duration of your availability.

Legal internships are also available. Applicable resumes, cover letters, and brief legal writing samples should be sent to maria.komartsova@hias.org. 

All internships are unpaid.