Public Affairs Associate

Smart City Policy Group is a small public affairs firm that works with cities across the country on policies shaping the new innovation economy. We collaborate with elected officials, municipal leaders, and industry stakeholders to advance forward-thinking policy solutions.

We are seeking a Public Affairs Associate to support communications, event management, and client-facing initiatives. This is a paid position at $20 per hour and is open to current students or recent graduates.

This role would be especially well-suited for someone who enjoys public and community interaction and is comfortable engaging with elected officials, stakeholders, and event attendees in professional settings.

What You’ll Do:

This role requires a high level of autonomy, and we are seeking self-starters who can manage their responsibilities independently, anticipate the potential impacts of their decisions, and take initiative in planning and coordinating events. Responsibilities include supporting event logistics, preparation, and overall coordination, including:

• Assisting with planning and executing policy events, briefings, and convenings

• Working directly with elected officials/candidates and their staff to coordinate logistics

• Creating and managing invite lists and RSVP forms

• Tracking attendance and maintaining organized spreadsheets

• Managing timelines, follow-ups, and internal coordination

Additional responsibilities include:

• Drafting press releases and promotional materials

• Creating graphics for social media and events (preferred experience)

• Professional writing free from spelling or grammatical errors

• Supporting publicity and company promotion efforts

• Handling administrative tasks and internal organization

• Maintaining clean, detailed records and databases

What We’re Looking For:

• Strong organizational and time management skills 

• Extroverted go-getter who isn't afraid to share their opinion

• Attention to detail and comfort managing spreadsheets and data

• Actively involved in the community (university, City of Austin, Travis County, etc.)

• Some prior internship or relevant experience preferred

• Ability to work in a hybrid environment (remote and in-person as needed)

• Professional communication skills, especially when working with elected officials and stakeholders

• Graphic design experience is a plus

Please apply via this Google Form link: https://forms.gle/Dvm97FJszS5MZqVr9

A resume and at least one writing sample is required.

Preferred majors include Communications, Advertising, Political Communication, Corporate Communication, Radio-Television-Film, Public Relations, Graphic Design, or related fields, but we welcome applicants from all backgrounds who demonstrate strong organizational and communications skills.