Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated, curious, and creative intern to join the Government Affairs team at Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). This internship offers hands-on experience at the intersection of government affairs, advocacy, maritime policy, travel and tourism, research, and industry engagement. The intern will support advocacy and government affairs efforts in the United States and Canada, including advancing legislative priorities, conducting Capitol Hill outreach, assessing midterm election outcomes and their impact on CLIA’s policy initiatives, and other special projects as needed.

Essential Job Functions?

• Support government affairs leaders on key projects involving legislation at the federal, state, and provincial levels.
• Monitor and report on legislative developments and stakeholder actions that could influence policy outcomes.
• Assist with drafting articles to inform CLIA members about government affairs activities.
• Update government affairs trackers and help develop a central repository for advocacy content supporting the industry’s policy positions.
• Help create advocacy content that communicates the industry’s position and business case on specific policy issues.
• Conduct research on issues, including legislative history, news coverage, stakeholder involvement, and policymaker positions.
• Stay updated on industry news, regulations, and emerging technologies relevant to the cruise industry.
• Collaborate with other CLIA functions, including Maritime Policy and Communications, as needed to advance advocacy priorities.
• Support efforts to grow the CLIA Political Action Committee.

Requirements

Requirements

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s degree program in public policy, political science, international affairs, tourism, business, or a related field.
• Strong interest in the cruise industry and a desire to learn about advocacy, public affairs, and policy issues shaping global cruise operations.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and comfortable working with data.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex topics into clear, accurate, engaging content.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a deadline-driven environment.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with a team.
• Flexibility and adaptability to take on new challenges and responsibilities.

Benefits

• Gain hands-on experience in the global cruise industry, including exposure to senior leaders and cross-functional teams.
• Work in a supportive and collaborative environment that fosters professional growth and development.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of cruise industry challenges, trends, and opportunities, including communications, advocacy, public policy, sustainability, research, and stakeholder engagement.
• Enhance research, analytical, creative, and communication skills through hands-on projects.
• Network with industry professionals and explore potential future career opportunities.

Work Environment

This position is based in our DC office as part of a hybrid work environment, with three days in the office (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) and two days remote (Monday and Friday). The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet.

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Other Duties

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive list of activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time, with or without notice.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

EEO Statement

CLIA provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.