Elastic, the Search AI Company, enables everyone to find the answers they need in real time, using all their data, at scale — unleashing the potential of businesses and people. The Elastic Search AI Platform, used by more than 50% of the Fortune 500, brings together the precision of search and the intelligence of AI to enable everyone to accelerate the results that matter. By taking advantage of all structured and unstructured data — securing and protecting private information more effectively — Elastic’s complete, cloud-based solutions for search, security, and observability help organizations deliver on the promise of AI.
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.
As a distributed company, diversity drives our identity. Whether you’re looking to launch a new career or grow an existing one, Elastic is the type of company where you can balance great work with great life. Your age is only a number. It doesn’t matter if you’re just out of college or your children are; we need you for what you can do.
We strive to have parity of benefits across regions and while regulations differ from place to place, we believe taking care of our people is the right thing to do.
- Competitive pay based on the work you do here and not your previous salary
- Health coverage for you and your family in many locations
- Ability to craft your calendar with flexible locations and schedules for many roles
- Generous number of vacation days each year
- Increase your impact - We match up to $2000 (or local currency equivalent) for financial donations and service
- Up to 40 hours each year to use toward volunteer projects you love
- Embracing parenthood with minimum of 16 weeks of parental leave
Different people approach problems differently. We need that. Elastic is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates different perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, age, marital status, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local law, ordinance or regulation.
We welcome individuals with disabilities and strive to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all individuals. To request an accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please email [email protected]. We will reply to your request within 24 business hours of submission.
Applicants have rights under Federal Employment Laws, view posters linked below: Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Poster; Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision Poster; Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA) Poster and Know Your Rights (Poster)
Elasticsearch develops and distributes encryption software and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls and licensing requirements for individuals who are located in or are nationals of the following sanctioned countries and regions: Belarus, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia, Syria, the Crimea Region of Ukraine, the Donetsk People’s Republic (“DNR”), and the Luhansk People’s Republic (“LNR”). If you are located in or are a national of one of the listed countries or regions, an export license may be required as a condition of your employment in this role. Please note that national origin and/or nationality do not affect eligibility for employment with Elastic.
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