Internships

Senator Merkley’s office offers in-person, hybrid, and remote internships for college students and others looking to gain experience working with a Senate office in Washington, D.C., Oregon, or remotely. Scholarships are available to those seeking financial support for the opportunity. Individuals from all majors and backgrounds are encouraged to apply. The office is happy to work with colleges or institutions to allow students to earn academic credit during their internships. Full- and part-time internships are available.

As the first in his family to go to college and having interned for former Senator Mark Hatfield in the 1970s, Senator Merkley has experienced firsthand the lifelong impact a Senate internship can have.  Interns located in DC, Oregon, and remotely work with the entire team, and staff invest in facilitating interns’ professional development. 

The ideal intern is curious, adaptable, rooted in community service, and wants to support progressive policies. Candidates should demonstrate solid communication and interpersonal skills, strong attention to detail, an ability to multi-task and resiliency to thrive in a fast-paced work environment. Anyone who wants to learn more about issues facing their communities, state, and country, as well the political process is encouraged to apply. Experience or familiarity with policy and politics may be helpful, but is not necessary to have a productive internship experience.


FAQs

To learn more about internships with Senator Merkley, visit our FAQs page.


How to Apply

Please follow the link below to apply for an internship.

Internship Application


“My own public service began at the age of 19, when I interned for Oregon Senator Mark O. Hatfield. Never in my wildest dreams did I believe that I would return to the Senate 33 years later to represent Oregon in the same seat once held by Senator Hatfield. I hope I can offer students the same unique life-changing opportunities my internship gave me.”

—Senator Jeff Merkley


You may reach the Intern Coordinator at (202) 224-3753.If you have questions or concerns regarding the internship process or your application submission, please email internships@merkley.senate.gov.

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