Global Expression Intern
This internship will be based in Philadelphia, PA and begin in the spring semester of 2026. The hours and exact start and end dates are flexible to fit the intern’s academic calendar. Please apply on our website https://www.thefire.org/careers. Only applications received through our site will be considered.
About FIRE
The Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to defending and sustaining the individual rights of all Americans to free speech and free thought. Please visit www.thefire.org to gain a sense of our work and mission.
Position Description
FIRE is looking for passionate, team-oriented, and driven undergraduates (rising juniors and seniors) or graduate students attending colleges and universities in the United States. FIRE offers a fast-paced and exciting work environment. Working at the headquarters of a national nonprofit, the student will be immersed in the general functions of running the office while learning about civil liberties in higher education from professional free speech advocates.
Responsibilities
FIRE is seeking an energetic undergraduate or graduate Global Expression Intern to aid its Communications Department. The intern’s responsibilities may include:
- Reviewing news articles about global censorship
- Contributing to FIRE’s research, writing, and public response to international free speech issues
- Assisting in the production of regular video and social content
- Comparative analysis of international and American speech law
- Analyzing data
Qualifications
A successful candidate will have:
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Excellent computer skills (Mac), including knowledge of MS Office and the Google/Gmail platform
- An understanding of and enthusiasm for FIRE’s mission
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Strong writing and research skills
- Interest in global speech policing and First Amendment standards
- The ability to work independently
Preferred Qualifications
- Writing and research experience
- Background in or focus on political science, international affairs, or law
- Student leadership experience
FIRE’s office is located near Independence Hall. Commuters who live outside walking distance can access FIRE through SEPTA regional rail, subway, bus service, or PATCO rail service. Parking is also available in the area at a variety of lots and garages for between $15 and $30 a day.
The Global Expression Intern will work in a standard office environment. To perform job responsibilities, the intern will use personal computers, copy machines, and telephones. Some lifting of objects weighing up to 30 pounds may be required. On occasion, the intern may be asked to perform errands that will involve walking to places within the immediate vicinity of the FIRE office.
Students will be evaluated at regular intervals. Highly successful candidates may be invited back for future intern experiences or may be offered a part-time position. However, further employment is not guaranteed.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
FIRE is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.
As part of FIRE's hiring process, all candidates receiving a conditional offer of employment will be required to undergo a background check as permitted by and in compliance with federal, state and local law.