Public Affairs, Research Internship (Fall 2026)

Orchestra

New York, N.y. Or Washington, D.c.
Onsite
Posted 2026-09-15

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Skills named in this job

Talent acquisition

Read from the description itself, not inferred.

This role on the market

1,120 open research roles across 199 companies are on ApplySarthi right now, most of them in Bengaluru (28), Mumbai (20), Hyderabad (11).

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What research roles keep asking for: Machine learning (23%), Python (20%), LLMs (12%) — counted across their open postings here.

Talent acquisition jobs

Orchestra has 36 open roles listed here.

Counted across 14 company job boards, updated as roles open and close.

Preparing for this interview

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Questions you are likely to be asked

Why do you want to join Orchestra?
What is your experience with Talent acquisition? Tell me one thing you learned the hard way.
Tell me about a problem you solved at work that you are proud of.
Tell me about a time you disagreed with your manager. What happened?
Where do you want to be in three years?

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ABOUT ORCHESTRA

Orchestra is a strategic communications and marketing company built for today’s complex and fragmented world. From decoding audiences to designing bold strategies, Orchestra integrates people, platforms, and stories that stick to help clients build lasting influence. The company offers programs that span from the highest level strategic business counsel through to tactical execution. Orchestra brings together 700+ people with experience across consumer and lifestyle, technology, nonprofit and philanthropy, real estate, sports, travel, hospitality, and more. Made up of leading firms BerlinRosen, Civitas Public Affairs Group, Derris, Glen Echo Group, Inkhouse, M18, Message Lab, Onward, and Small Girls PR. Orchestra also launched Brightmode, a talent acquisition firm for communications professionals, and Versus Media Group, a strategy-first political media team. Learn more at www.orchestraco.com.

People of all backgrounds and abilities are strongly encouraged to apply. Orchestra is committed to building and maintaining a diverse staff, and recognizes that its continued success depends on hiring and retaining high-quality creative professionals with a variety of backgrounds and experiences. Opportunities for advancement exist, and we are committed to helping all staff develop and grow.

ABOUT THE INTERNSHIP

Orchestra is seeking highly motivated individuals to join our Fall 2026 Emerging Talent Post-Grad Communications Internship Program. This hands-on opportunity for recent college graduates provides meaningful experience across strategic communications, public affairs, media engagement, and brand storytelling.

Duration: September 29 – December 18, 2026
Location: Hybrid internship based in New York, NY or Washington, DC. Minimum 3 days per week in-office.
Compensation: $18/hour

This internship offers the potential for permanent, full-time employment. While full-time opportunities may become available, they are not guaranteed and are contingent upon individual performance and the company's hiring needs at the time.

COMMUNICATIONS INTERNSHIP - PUBLIC AFFAIRS (RESEARCH)

This internship is part of Orchestra's Public Affairs, Research practice area. Interns in this practice area work alongside communications professionals to support strategic communications campaigns that help organizations navigate complex public, political, and community-facing issues.

WHAT YOU'LL DO
As an intern, you'll...

Conduct research and monitor industry, market, and media trends
Draft content, reports, presentations, and communications materials
Support client and internal projects from planning through execution
Participate in meetings, brainstorming sessions, client calls, and events
Collaborate across teams on integrated initiatives
Gain exposure to strategic communications and public affairs in a fast-paced agency environment

QUALIFICATIONS
Required:

A bachelor's degree (or be graduating before the internship start date)
Prior internship or relevant work experience in the selected practice area
Strong writing, research, analytical, and communication skills
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
Proficiency with Google Workspace and Microsoft Office
Digital fluency and eagerness to learn new platforms
A strong interest in communications, marketing, public affairs, policy, or related fields

HOW TO APPLY
To be considered, applicants must submit:

Resume (1-2 pages)
Highlight relevant professional, academic, internship, volunteer, or extracurricular experience.

Application Form
As part of the application, candidates will be asked to complete a brief essay (500 words or less) describing how their experiences have prepared them for success and why they are interested in pursuing a career in the field.

Due to application volume, we are unable to respond to all submissions. We will reach out directly to candidates selected for interviews. We kindly ask that you do not call, email, or contact us to confirm receipt of your application or inquire about your status.

#LI-HW1
#LI-Hybrid

Orchestra is the first communications company built for today’s media landscape. Since 2022, it’s acquired nine firms, including: BerlinRosen, Civitas Public Affairs Group, Derris, Glen Echo Group, Inkhouse, M18, Message Lab, Onward and Small Girls PR. It also launched Brightmode, a talent acquisition firm for communication professionals. Learn more at: www.orchestraco.com.

To ensure that applicants are matched with the job that best suits their qualifications and interests, information that you submit may be shared with our network agencies. By providing your information, you are consenting to allow us and our subsidiaries to keep your information on file and to contact you regarding job opportunities, recruitment events and other related updates.

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Listed on greenhouse · posted 2026-09-15. ApplySarthi collects openings and links to application pages; the role is advertised by Orchestra, not by us.