Government Affairs Intern

Position Summary

The Catawba Nation Internship Program offers students and emerging young professionals the opportunity to build valuable job skills through hands-on experience. In a supportive and collaborative environment, interns will be learning professional workplace expectations alongside staff and mentors.

The intern will assist the department they are assigned to by helping with daily tasks, projects, and basic office or field support.

Essential Functions

• Gain hands-on experience supporting General Council (GC) meetings through material preparation, attendee check-in, and on-site event logistical support.
• Assist with preparing Executive Committee (EC) meeting materials, including memos, resolutions, and supporting documents.
• Support document organization, filing, and uploading materials into internal systems while learning records management practices.
• Observe and assist with meetings involving leadership, lobbyists, and government officials to gain exposure to Government Affairs operations and initiatives.
• Develop a working knowledge of tribal governance, policies, procedures, and government relations through supervised, on the job learning.
• Build professional communication, organization, and administrative support skills in a government setting.

Why Join Our Internship Program

• Opportunity to serve and make a lasting impact within the tribal community.
• Hands-on experience working on real projects and day-to-day operations.
• On-the-job training and mentorship from experienced professionals.
• Networking opportunities with industry leaders, tribal professionals, and community partners.
• Resume building experience that strengthens future career opportunities.
• Exposure to a variety of career paths and transferable workplace skills.
• Access to traditional cultural events and community gatherings.

This internship description is intended to provide a general overview of the role and is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities or expectations. Interns may be assigned additional duties or learning opportunities as needed to support departmental goals and professional development. Catawba Indian Nation reserves the right to revise or update this internship description at any time.

Catawba Indian Nation exercises INDIAN PREFERENCE:

Tribal Government Positions

Native American (Indian) preference applies to this position pursuant to the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, 25 U.S.C. § 5301 et seq.; the Indian Reorganization Act, 25 U.S.C. § 5116; and other applicable federal and tribal laws, consistent with the sovereign authority of the Catawba Indian Nation.

Gaming Commission Positions

Native American (Indian) preference applies to this position pursuant to the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, 25 U.S.C. § 2701 et seq.; applicable regulations of the National Indian Gaming Commission at 25 CFR Chapter III; the Indian Reorganization Act, 25 U.S.C. § 5116; and other applicable federal and tribal laws, consistent with the sovereign authority of the Catawba Indian Nation.

Background checks and drug screening are requirements for employment. 

Qualifications  

• Must be a Catawba Citizen.
• Must be between the ages of 18-24.
• Must submit a Catawba tribal ID and resume.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to communicate professionally and respectfully with staff, supervisors, and community members.
• Ability to follow instructions, ask questions when needed, and learn new tasks quickly.
• Basic organizational skills and ability to manage time effectively.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information appropriately.
• Basic computer skills, including ability to use email and common office programs. 
• Willingness to take initiative and assist with projects assigned.
• Dependable and punctual with a positive attitude toward learning. 
• Ability to represent the Catawba Nation in a professional manner.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

• Primarily office-based with regular use of computers, phones, and standard office equipment
• Frequent interaction with tribal citizens, staff, and community partners (in person and virtual)
• Occasional evening or weekend hours for events or attend meetings for Executive Committee and/or General Council
• Prolonged sitting and frequent computer use
• Occasional standing, walking, and lifting of light materials (up to 10 lbs.)
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to perform essential functions