State & Local Government Affairs Intern - ElastiGrad

Are you passionate about the intersection of technology, law, and public policy — and excited to see how innovation shapes the world? As Elastic’s State & Local Government Affairs Intern, you’ll work on the front lines of emerging state and local tech policy, with a special focus on artificial intelligence.

You’ll help monitor and analyze legislation, track industry trends, and support strategies that influence public sector engagement. From AI and cybersecurity to open-source software and procurement reform, you’ll gain hands-on experience in the policy conversations shaping the future of technology.

This role is designed for a current student or recent graduate with exceptional research, writing, and analytical skills — and a desire to learn from an experienced global Government Affairs team. Ideally this candidate would be able to start with Elastic as full-time employee in February 2026.

What You Will be Doing

• Track and analyze state and local legislation, regulations, and executive actions on AI, cybersecurity, privacy, procurement reform, open-source software, and other tech policy issues.


• Monitor activity from trade associations (e.g., BSA | The Software Alliance, Alliance for Digital Innovation) and national organizations (e.g., NGA, NASCIO, NCSL) to identify state-level digital policy trends.


• Support Elastic’s policy strategy by spotting risks, opportunities, and emerging issues.


• Conduct in-depth research and create memos, trackers, event recaps, talking points, and internal briefings.


• Contribute to content for blogs, panels, and public comments on state/local policy topics.


• Collaborate with Legal, Sales, and other teams to share updates that may impact Elastic’s work or customers.


• Help strengthen Elastic’s relationships with state and local officials and key stakeholders through policy engagement and thought leadership.

What You Bring

• Current undergraduate or graduate student (or recent graduate) in political science, public policy, law, computer science, international affairs, or related fields.


• Strong interest in AI, cybersecurity, open-source technology, and the role of government in shaping emerging tech.


• Excellent research, writing, and organizational skills with the ability to distill complex topics into clear, compelling summaries.


• Familiarity with U.S. state government structures and legislative processes (preferred).


• Self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, distributed work environment.


• Bonus points for experience with AI tools or open-source software — but not required.


• Ability to potentially start as a full-time employee in February 2026.

What You’ll Gain

• First-hand exposure to the fast-moving world of state-level technology policy.


• Mentorship from a high-performing global Government Affairs team.


• Real-world experience navigating the intersection of innovation and regulation.


• Networking opportunities with policymakers, industry experts, and Elastic colleagues.

Details

• Duration: 6 months full-time


• Location: Remote within the U.S.