Public Policy & Community Affairs Intern

About the role

We are looking for a Public Policy & Community Affairs Intern based on O‘ahu to join our Government Relations team and support Vannevar’s engagement across Hawaiʻi and the Indo‑Pacific region. This role will partner closely with our Director of Government Relations and broader Public Policy & Strategy team to strengthen relationships with policymakers, industry associations, and community organizations.

This position is designed to expand Vannevar’s local presence and ensure consistent, high-quality engagement with partners across government, academia, industry, and civil society. The intern will play a critical role in supporting coordination, research, and execution of engagement strategies tied to policy priorities and community needs.

What you’ll do

Build relationships with policymakers and civic leaders

Support engagement with state and local officials, congressional offices, and relevant public agencies. Help with stakeholder mapping, meeting coordination, briefing preparation, and follow-ups to deepen Vannevar’s presence on island. Take ownership of key relationships over time and help build coalitions across stakeholders to advance shared priorities.

Partner with industry associations and ecosystem organizations

Help develop and maintain relationships with chambers of commerce, technology and innovation networks, trade associations, and convening organizations. Attend and represent Vannevar at partner- and community-led events (e.g., association meetings, convenings, panels, and roundtables), capturing notes and follow-ups and helping identify opportunities to build relationships and advance shared priorities.

Engage community and nonprofit stakeholders

Assist in building respectful, durable relationships with community organizations, nonprofits, and local leaders. Help identify opportunities for listening sessions, site visits, and community-informed programming that aligns with local priorities.

Conduct policy research and analysis

Track relevant policy initiatives, economic development priorities, and funding opportunities related to technology, resilience, workforce development, public safety, and regional security. Synthesize insights into clear, actionable memos and briefings for internal teams.

Strengthen internal coordination

Act as a connective tissue between on-island Government Relations, product, and mission teams by coordinating requests, surfacing regional insights, and helping teams stay aligned on messaging and engagement goals.

Provide operational and administrative support

Assist with scheduling, event logistics, note-taking, and general support to ensure smooth execution of engagements and ongoing initiatives in Hawaiʻi.

What we’re looking for

• Demonstrated interest in public policy, government relations, community affairs, or civic engagement (internships, campus work, or community leadership welcome)
• Strong research, writing, and communication skills
• Strong organizational skills and comfort managing multiple priorities
• Ability to operate independently and proactively in a remote, lightly structured environment
• Familiarity with Hawaiʻi’s policy and community landscape (or eagerness to learn quickly and respectfully)
• U.S. citizenship 
• Based in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi

What we offer

Competitive hourly pay. Individual compensation will be determined based on experience and relevant education.

Vannevar Labs is an equal opportunity employer, and qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, or disability status.

We encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply, even if you don’t feel like a perfect fit. If you’re passionate about contributing to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.