Government Affairs Internship – Paid Internship
Description: PAID, up to 20 hours per week
The Southern Arizona Home Builders Association (SAHBA) is the voice of the home building industry in Southern Arizona. We advocate for pro-housing policies, support responsible growth, and strengthen the success of our members by championing housing affordability, fostering community engagement, and promoting economic development.
This internship is an opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in local government affairs and learn how decisions made at the city, county, and regional levels directly affect housing, development, and the economy.
Internship Experience
During the internship, the student will have the opportunity to:
Understand Local Policy & Regulations: Learn how zoning, permitting, planning, and development policies affect housing and community growth in Southern Arizona.
Policy & Regulatory Analysis: Research, track, and analyze local ordinances, fee schedules, planning initiatives, and regulatory proposals impacting housing affordability and construction.
Local Government Relations & Advocacy: Under the direction or in tandem with the Government Affairs Director, attend City Council, Board of Supervisors, Planning & Zoning, and other public meetings to observe policymaking in action. Support SAHBA’s advocacy efforts by helping prepare materials and tracking issues that matter to our members.
Community Engagement: Gain experience in how the homebuilding industry works with local stakeholders to balance growth, infrastructure, and quality of life.
Communication & Writing Skills: Draft concise policy summaries, talking points, and reports for SAHBA leadership, members, and committees.
Networking Opportunities: Build a professional network by connecting with local elected officials, community leaders, industry professionals, and policy staff.
Event Support: Assist in planning and coordinating SAHBA events such as government affairs forums, roundtables, and community discussions.
Research & Reporting: Prepare briefing materials and presentations on local housing and growth-related issues, including infrastructure, workforce, and land use planning.
Internship Experience
Fall
Spring
Summer
Deadlines: Continuous. Applications are reviewed year-round, but early submission is encouraged.
Qualifications
Junior or Senior standing in college
GPA of 3.0 or higher
Coursework in Political Science, Public Policy, Public Administration, Urban Planning, or related fields
Preferred:
Interest in local government, housing policy, land use, or community development
Strong research and writing skills
Purpose of Internship
The purpose of the Government Affairs Internship at SAHBA is to provide students with a practical understanding of how local government policies and decisions directly impact housing and development in Southern Arizona. Interns will gain valuable insight into advocacy, local policymaking, and stakeholder engagement, preparing them for future careers in government affairs, urban planning, or community-based policy work.
The purpose of the Government Affairs Internship at SAHBA is to provide students with a practical understanding of how local government policies and decisions directly impact housing and development in Southern Arizona. Interns will gain valuable insight into advocacy, local policymaking, and stakeholder engagement, preparing them for future careers in government affairs, urban planning, or community-based policy work.
How to Apply
How to Apply
Please submit a resume and cover letter to Brendan Lyons, Director of Government Affairs at: Brendan@sahba.org
Applicants selected for interviews will be contacted via email.
Contact
Southern Arizona Home Builders Association (SAHBA)
Attn: Brendan Lyons, Director of Government Affairs
Email: Brendan@sahba.org
Website: https://www.sahba.org