Third Way is a think tank that answers America's challenges with modern ideas aimed at the center-left. We advocate for private-sector economic growth, a smart national security strategy, a clean energy revolution, and progress on divisive social issues, all through pragmatic US politics.
The Third Way Adam Solomon Intern Program introduces highly motivated graduate students, with an interest in policy analysis and development, to the process of advancing a 21st century progressive agenda. Interns will gain hands-on experience working closely with Third Way's senior management team, which has extensive political, communications, and policy experience, forged at every level of government and advocacy: the White House, federal agencies, the House and Senate, presidential campaigns, and national non-profit advocacy organizations.
The Third Way Internship Program was named in 2009 in memory of our former Vice Chairman, Adam Solomon, who believed that progressives must re-think our ideas for a new era. He believed deeply in public service and was instrumental in creating Third Way.
Third Way offers paid internships in our Washington, DC office. The number of positions and area of responsibility varies by semester, but each offers an exciting opportunity to work on projects that will make an important and lasting contribution. Third Way internships are especially well suited for students with an interest in the intersection of politics and public policy. Previous Third Way interns have secured full-time positions in the federal government, nonprofit advocacy sector, and private industry after graduation. Please see below for more details about the positions available and how to apply.
We understand what it means to bring different voices together to work towards a common goal. Third Way is committed to non-discrimination and encourages all qualified applicants to apply to join our team. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, lawful alien status, age, marital status, parental status, or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law, and will not discriminate against anyone on the basis of a disability. All employment selections are determined on the basis of qualifications and program needs.
Development Intern, Development & External Affairs Program
Third Way is a national think tank that was founded in 2005 to champion modern center-left ideas. Our work is grounded in the mainstream American values of opportunity, freedom, and security.
We are proud of the organization that we have built and continue to seek out talent who contribute to our ambitious mission. We are deeply committed to promoting a culture of results and respect where every employee has opportunities to contribute, develop, and grow professionally.
Third Way’s Development & External Affairs team is looking for a highly organized individual with a keen interest in advancing moderate democratic politics and policy. If you love to dive deep into understanding donors and Democratic fundraising, care about combatting the threat of extremism, and want to make an impact on the donor experience at Third Way…this is the job for you!
As the Development Intern, a typical day might include…
- Responding to emails and ensuring all communication channels are up to date.
- Meeting regularly with the individual giving team and executive coordinators to keep track of upcoming meetings.
- Conducting and compiling research on current and prospective donors.
- Updating Salesforce and Airtable with prospect and donor information.
Short-Term Projects
- Compile research on prospective donors to identify their priorities and alignment with Third Way and the Moderate Power Project.
- Map Board member and donor relationships to identify potential connections.
- Track donor research in Salesforce and make sure contacts are up to date.
- Work with Salesforce administrator to develop data reconciliation process.
- Conduct research on ways to use AI and other tools for prospect research.
Long-Term Projects
- Work with the communications team to update website language and donor materials.
- Conduct research on emerging trends in philanthropy and political giving.
- Work with fundraising consultants to ensure all information and notes are reflected in Airtable and Salesforce.
- Work with Salesforce administrator to establish a system to update leadership on prospects, meetings, and pledges/donations.
- Conduct a research project and present to team members as part of a lunch and learn.
*Please note all duties and events will require in-office participation. All Third Way staff are required to be vaccinated. This is a part-time, PAID INTERNSHIP. We are flexible with scheduling.*
Job requirements
This might be the right job for you if you…
- Are a current student or recent graduate with an interest in/knowledge of politics or a related field. Those with undergraduate degrees or relevant experience may also apply.
- Enjoy research and problem solving.
- Want to contribute towards Third Way’s mission.
- Take pride in and ownership of your work.
- Are curious and eager for professional development.
- Think on your feet and adapt to changes effortlessly.
- Communicate clearly and effectively in writing and verbally.
- Want to make a difference and an imprint as Third Way’s newest Development Intern.
In the Third Way Culture, we are looking for…
- Self-starters: People who see and seize opportunities, take risks, learn from failure, and will bring a sustained passion for our mission.
- Collaborators: People who work in teams—sharing ideas, brainstorming, co-authoring products, and advancing its shared priorities.
- Creators: People who foster divergent thinking and aren’t afraid to take on the orthodoxies of the left or the right. Team members come up with original insights, find unique ways to look at data, and challenge their preconceptions.
- Results-oriented: People who function with an organizational commitment to clear objectives, ambitious timelines, accountability for results, and a focus on impact.
- Respectful: People who embrace the diverse perspectives of everyone and fosters the values of diversity, equity, and inclusiveness at all times.
The Internship Program runs from the Tuesday, June 10th, through Thursday, August 28th.
Interns work part-time, in-person, and are paid
$18.00/hour for up to 25 hours per week.
Third Way is an equal opportunity employer. We will consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable laws.