Careers

Join the NorthStar Team! - Internship Opportunity 

NorthStar Public Affairs is seeking a driven and detail-oriented Intern to support our team in the day-to-day operations that keep the firm sharp, organized, and ahead of the curve.

This role is ideal for a recent graduate of an undergraduate or master’s program in public policy, political science, economics, law, or a related field who wants real exposure to Canadian politics, government relations, and strategic communications. You’ll be embedded in active client files, supporting research, monitoring, coordination, and internal tracking that directly informs advocacy at the highest levels.

If you follow federal politics closely, understand how Ottawa works, and thrive in fast-moving environments where precision matters, this is where you start.

Term: April – September (6 months)

Pay: Entry Level Compensation

Who we are

At NorthStar, deep policy knowledge is the foundation of how we think, plan and act. We are collaborators, communicators and strategists, and we measure our success by the impact our clients achieve.

We’re a boutique Canadian government relations and public affairs firm built by insiders who know how the system actually works. Our team brings real experience from both sides of the floor, from senior political staff roles to campaign leadership and strategic advisory work. We cut through noise and complexity so our clients can influence policy outcomes, deepen government relationships, and win in the public square.

We blend strategy with boots-on-the-ground political insight. Our approach is modern, tailored and outcome-oriented. We work across sectors, help clients navigate federal and provincial decision-making landscapes, and deliver advocacy that moves conversations forward. We are trusted by leaders in industry, non-profits, and associations to interpret the political climate, shape compelling narratives, and activate strategic engagement when it matters most.

The Role

As the Public Affairs Intern at NorthStar Public Affairs, you will support the team across active client files and internal operations that keep the firm running at a high level. You will assist with political and policy monitoring, research and analysis, stakeholder mapping, briefing note preparation, media tracking, and internal project coordination. You will help maintain tracking systems, update client materials, and ensure deliverables are organized, accurate, and on time.

On any given day, you may be:

  • Monitoring parliamentary committees, Question Period, ministerial announcements, and regulatory developments
  • Drafting background research
  • Supporting stakeholder lists and contact mapping
  • Preparing briefing materials for meetings with elected officials and senior staff
  • Assisting with newsletter and media monitoring products
  • Maintaining internal tracking documents and project timelines
  • Conducting targeted research on legislation, budgets, or procurement files

This is an opportunity to see how policy, politics, and strategy intersect in real time. If you are serious about a career in public affairs, this role will accelerate your learning curve.

Who you are

Have you long-dreamed of a career in the fast paced, ever-changing world of government relations and public affairs? 

Consider yourself to be a politics / news junkie? This is the role for you.

  • Clear, concise writing ability across briefing notes, summaries, and internal documents
  • Strong organizational habits and comfort managing multiple moving pieces
  • The ability to work independently and take initiative
  • Attention to detail
  • Research and analytical skills
  • An understanding of how Canadian politics and governments work

Assets

  • Design experience
  • Social media experience
  • Bilingualism

Please send your cover letter and resume to jack@northstarpa.ca by Friday, March 13, 2026 at 5 p.m. Chosen applicants will be contacted directly to schedule an interview and may be asked for a writing sample.

Note: The successful candidate will need to be able to reliably commute to our office in Ottawa, ON.