Intern at Virginia Economic Development Partnership – Richmond, Virginia

We are looking for an intern for the Manufacturing Division during the summer of 2026. This position provides practical work experience at the intersection of economic development and manufacturing operations. The intern will support the Manufacturing Team’s efforts in research, data analysis, industry outreach, and project coordination while also spending dedicated time with the Manufacturing Team meeting and engaging with Virginia manufacturing firms and stakeholders to gain exposure to the diverse manufacturing sectors represented in the Commonwealth. Interns will complete a project and develop a presentation to be shared with staff at the end of the internship. They will be part of an organization-wide cohort, providing networking and professional development opportunities throughout the summer.

Duties:

• Support economic and industry research, including gathering and analyzing data on manufacturing trends, workforce needs, and regional competitive factors.
• Assist in preparing reports, briefings, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Participate in economic development initiatives related to manufacturing retention, expansion, and employer engagement.
• Help coordinate logistics for team events, stakeholder meetings, or field visits.
• Contribute to team efforts that include site visits, manufacturing tours, and collaboration with local partners.

Knowledge and Skills Required:

• Interest in economic development and/or manufacturing as a potential future career pathway
• Current enrollment in or recent graduate of a relevant undergraduate or graduate program (e.g., business, economics, engineering, supply chain, manufacturing technology, operations management, or related fields).
• Strong analytical, research, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Interest in economic development and/or manufacturing operations.

Qualifications Preferred:

Pursuit of a bachelor’s or graduate degree in engineering or related field is preferred.

This position will be full-time, hybrid – working a minimum of 24 hours per week (3 days) in our Richmond office and up to 16 hours per week (2 days) from home.

All candidates must apply on our website https://www.vedp.org/careers

Application Deadline: February 6, 2026

Internship Period: June 1, 2026 – August 6, 2026 (10 weeks)

Salary: Undergrad Students - $15 per hour, Graduate Students - $17 per hour

VEDP is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or against otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities. It is VEDP’s intent that its employment and personnel policies and practices conform to all applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding non-discrimination and affirmative action. Applicants requiring more information or requiring assistance may contact VEDP Human Resources at 1-804-545-5634 or vedphr@VEDP.org. TDD 1-800-828-1120.