The Corn Refiners Association (CRA) is the national trade association representing the corn refining industry of the United States. CRA and its predecessors have served this important segment of American agribusiness since 1913. Corn refiners manufacture sweeteners, ethanol, starch, advanced bioproducts, corn oil and feed products from corn components such as starch, oil, protein, and fiber.

The U.S. corn refining industry is a key player in international markets due to the abundance and quality of our products. Reflecting the significance of our members’ role in the international markets, CRA provides leadership to the largest actively engaged coalition on U.S. trade policy, which advocates on a variety of leading trade issues.

Overview

The Internship Program at CRA is designed for recent university graduates and graduate students. College seniors and juniors performing at an exceptional level will also be considered. Relevant experience or an academic background in international affairs, economics, international business/trade, and trade policy are most applicable to the position.

CRA values its interns and endeavors to provide a learning experience that advances your career development and expands your professional network. Interns assist with various projects throughout their time at CRA. Successful interns are enthusiastic about working on a wide variety of tasks in a fast- paced, team environment. The internship duration is January-May 2024.

The position will provide direct support to the Vice President of Trade and Industry Affairs and other CRA policy staff through:

  • development and implementation of CRA’s trade policy agenda;
  • tracking key legislation and regulatory proposals in the U.S. and key foreign governments;
  • tracking and analyzing pertinent trade and industry data and metrics;
  • building relationships with staff of CRA’s strategic partners;
  • attending hearings and meetings on behalf of CRA and deliver an analysis of critical issues discussed;
  • outreach to the CRA Trade and Government Relations Committees, which are comprised of all CRA member companies; and,
  • assisting the policy staff with various initiatives and special projects.

Qualifications

  • Qualified candidates should have or be working towards a graduate degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, Business, Economics, or similar field of study.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Robust research and analytical acumen.
  • Organized, with an ability to prioritize multiple time-sensitive assignments.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint).
  • A genuine interest in policy analysis and development.
  • Spanish speaking, reading, and writing capabilities (preferred).

Additional Details

  • CRA has a hybrid work environment. Staff works in the office Tuesday-Thursday and works remotely Monday and Friday. You will need to have a personal computer, secure internet connection and a landline or cell phone.
  • The Internship Program at CRA is a paid position ($20 per hour). If you would like to receive credit in addition to or in lieu of wages, please consult with your department head or academic advisor.
  • CRA is seeking someone with the availability in the Spring session (January – May 2024) for a minimum of 25-30 hours a week.
  • No benefits are provided.

To Apply

  • Interested applicants should email their cover letter, resume, transcripts with cumulative GPA, writing sample, and contact information for 3 references to [email protected] using the subject line “RE: CRA Trade Policy Intern”.
  • At least one reference should be a current Professor or Academic Advisor familiar with your academic record. We will contact references directly only for top candidates and only after notifying the intern candidate.
  • No phone calls will be accepted.

Corn Refiners Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer.