State Affairs Intern

NiSource; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 25,000 - 40,000; Part time

Job summary

NiSource's Summer State Affairs Intern program offers hands-on exposure to regulatory research, stakeholder engagement, and community outreach. You will assist with materials, tracking, and coordination while working closely with State Affairs leadership and cross-functional teams to advance strategic priorities.

The 12-week program runs May–August in Columbus, OH, and supports your development with practical projects and professional networking.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate student in public affairs, political science, or related field.
• Strong writing, research, and communication abilities.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Assist with stakeholder engagement and community outreach.
• Support regulatory and legislative research.
• Prepare briefing materials and meeting notes.
• Help track engagements with external partners and officials.
• Coordinate meetings, events, and related logistics.
• Contribute to capstone project and final presentation.

Skills

Public affairs awareness

Strong writing

Organizational skills

Education

Public affairs or related field

Tools

Microsoft Teams

Excel

PowerPoint

Word

Job description

NiSource Internship Program Introduction

NiSource is currently seeking a Summer State Affairs Intern. Successful applicants will become integral members of the department while learning within a team environment, completing meaningful tasks and collaborating with team members and leaders on important projects. This position will be a great opportunity for the candidate desiring to launch their career in this field. Successful applicants will build professional relationships with other interns and all levels of NiSource personnel while participating in rewarding professional development exercises and fun, team-building activities. Interns will obtain a broad overview of NiSource's operations and current events in the utilities industry.

This is a 12-week summer internship program starting in May 2027, for students entering their junior or senior year in fall 2027. The role is based in Columbus, OH. Candidates must reside within 50 miles of the reporting location to be eligible.

Job Summary

The State Affairs Intern will support the State Affairs department in advancing strategic priorities across NiSource. This role will assist with stakeholder engagement, regulatory and legislative research, community outreach, internal coordination, and project tracking. The intern will work closely with State Affairs leadership and cross-functional business partners to help prepare materials, organize information, support key initiatives, and contribute to the department’s efforts to build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Essential Functions

• Incumbent is required to be a full/part time student at an accredited university or college.
• Supports State Affairs projects and initiatives, including stakeholder engagement, community outreach, and legislative or regulatory tracking.
• Maintains stakeholder information and helps track engagement with community partners, elected officials, business organizations, industry groups, and other external contacts.
• Prepares briefing materials, summaries, talking points, meeting notes, and internal updates for State Affairs and business partners.
• Assists with meetings, events, forums, and outreach activities, including logistics, agendas, follow-up notes, and action item tracking.
• Researches local government, legislative, regulatory, community, and industry topics to help identify emerging issues and engagement opportunities.
• Completes a capstone project that supports a State Affairs priority, including research, analysis, recommendations, and a final presentation or summary of findings.

Required Qualifications For Position

• An undergraduate path in public affairs, political science, communications, public relations, business, public policy, government relations, or a related field, with strong writing and organizational skills.
• Basic knowledge or interest in public affairs, government relations, regulatory affairs, community engagement, strategic planning, communications, or utility operations is desirable.
• Intermediate skill level with Microsoft Teams, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and other Microsoft programs; ability to organize information, build trackers, and prepare clear presentation materials.
• Experience with research, writing, data organization, event support, photography, videography, editing, or presentation development is preferred.
• Willing to travel throughout the Columbia Gas of Ohio service territory to attend and support events.
• Must be a rising junior or senior.
• A self-starter, able manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.
• Intermediate skill level with Microsoft Teams and other Microsoft programs (specifically Excel).

Physical Demands

The preceding description is not designed to be a complete list of all duties and responsibilities required of the position.

As a public utility, NiSource provides essential services to customers 24/7. Emergency needs can arise at various times throughout the year, including during storm season. Employees may be required to support emergency response efforts, which could include working outside normal hours or assisting with tasks outside of typical responsibilities.

Work Authorization

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and must not require employer sponsorship now or in the future.

Workplace Connection

We value a workplace where everyone feels respected, included, and able to do their best work. We encourage open dialogue, value different perspectives, and work collaboratively with employees, customers, and partners.

We recognize and respect the unique experiences people bring, including different backgrounds, cultures, and viewpoints. We treat others with professionalism and care, and we each play a part in creating a positive work environment.

Veteran Hiring & Inclusion

NiSource is proud to support veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses. We value the leadership, teamwork, and mission-focused experience the military community brings, and we are committed to providing an inclusive workplace with opportunities for professional growth and development.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may also be considered for other roles that match your skills and experience.

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any stage of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at [e-mail] or 1-888-640-3320.

Safety Statement

Safety is a core value at NiSource. Employees are expected to follow safety requirements, report hazards, and help maintain a safe environment for themselves and their coworkers.

E-Verify

NiSource participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. Please review the following notices regarding your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law.

• E-Verify Poster (English and Spanish)
• Right to Work Poster (English and Spanish)

Salary Range*

$17.20 - $29.70

• The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate’s skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.

Posting Start Date

2026-09-01

Posting End Date (if applicable)

2026-10-03

Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.