Policy Intern (Spring 2027)

About the Role

The Council for Quality Growth is seeking two independent, motivated individuals to serve as Spring 2027 Policy Interns. These internships are structured, professional learning opportunities designed to provide hands-on exposure to the real-world development of public policy affecting growth and development in metro Atlanta and across Georgia. Policy Interns will work directly with the Council’s Policy and Government Affairs team on active local and state policy initiatives related to land use, zoning, housing, transportation and transit, infrastructure, water, environmental regulation, permitting, and governance. Interns will support research, writing, advocacy preparation, and stakeholder engagement while gaining professional experience in a policy-focused nonprofit environment.

About the Council for Quality Growth

The Council for Quality Growth is a non-profit trade organization representing the growth and development industry across metro Atlanta and Georgia. The Council brings together private-sector leaders and public officials to promote balanced, responsible growth that supports economic vitality and quality of life. Through advocacy, education, and convening, the Council actively participates in the formulation of public policy affecting land use, zoning, housing, transportation, infrastructure, and environmental regulation at the local, regional, and state levels.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Interns will support the Council’s Policy and Government Affairs team through a combination of research, writing, event support, and project-based work. Responsibilities can include:

• Researching and analyzing public policy issues impacting growth and development
• Monitoring and reporting on local & state government meetings, hearings, and legislative activity
• Supporting advisory meetings, briefings, and events with local government officials and staff
• Engaging with elected officials, government staff, and Council members through programming
• Preparing and maintaining internal policy tracking materials and strategic contacts
• Assisting with day-to-day operations of the Policy and Government Affairs team

Qualifications

The most successful candidates will demonstrate strong analytical skills, professionalism, and interest in public policy. Qualifications include:

• Current enrollment in an undergraduate or graduate degree program
• Preferred fields of study include Public Policy, Political Science, Public Administration, Urban Planning, Communications, English, Public Health, or Public Relations.
• Other relevant fields welcomed include Economics, Environmental Studies, Environmental Design or Engineering, Law, Real Estate, and Business Administration.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines
• Interest in local and state government, planning, or development policy
• Professional demeanor and ability to represent the Council with external stakeholders
• Reliable transportation to and from CQG Office in Sandy Springs is required. Occasionally off-site meetings can occur.

Time Commitment & Format

• Approximately 12 weeks in duration
• Requires approximately 15 to 17 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate class schedules.
• Internships will begin in mid to late February and run until the start of May.
• The position is primarily in-person.
• Interns are expected to attend Council meetings, events, and relevant public hearings.
• The internship is paid through an honorarium at the completion of the program.

Professional Experience

Policy Interns are exposed to the Council’s extensive membership, including professionals across the development, engineering, planning, and public policy sectors. Interns are expected to act professionally and lean into the Council’s policy agenda while gaining valuable experience, mentorship, and industry insight.

Application Instructions

• Interested applicants should submit a resume via email to [email protected].
• Application Deadline: Friday, November 13, 2026.