Type of Position: Internship/Fellowship
Job Title: Payne Scholar
Organization Name: The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce
Location: Trenton, New Jersey
Contact: Amirah Hussain, Amirah.hussain@njchamber.com
Job Description:
The New Jersey Chamber of Commerce is seeking a young professional in the state to become the recipient of the
Chamber’s ‘Payne Scholar’ initiative. The initiative is named in honor of Bill Payne, a long-time Chamber executive
who devoted his life to government relations. Payne Scholars will work with the Chamber to help fulfill our mission and
support a pro-growth agenda for New Jersey in the following areas:
�� Economic Development �� Labor
�� Environment and Energy �� Transportation
�� Fiscal Policy and Tax Reform �� Workforce Development/Education Reform
�� Government Reform �� Other issues areas as needed
�� Healthcare
The Payne Scholar will have the opportunity to experience the full scope of responsibilities involved in managing a business and lobbying organization. Under the direction of appropriate Chamber leadership, specific responsibilities will
include, but not be limited to:
�� Researching and analyzing policy issues �� Working on special projects as required
�� Helping prepare background briefings, �� Helping prepare letters, speeches, critical
position papers for Chamber analyses, and testimony
leadership �� Helping with policy inquiries from Chamber
�� Attending legislative hearings with the membership and legislative offices.
Government Relations team
We seek a current student or recent graduate with a degree in government relations, business, economics, or a similar
area. Candidates need to have a strong interest in and basic understanding of government. They must be well-organized
and have strong written, verbal and interpersonal skills. Candidates must also be comfortable communicating with
representatives from the business community, lobbying and advocacy organizations, and legislative offices.
This internship will begin Summer 2026, the start date is flexible. Candidates should be able to work at least two
(2) days a week, 8:30am-4:30pm. We will try to be flexible with the time commitment based on students’ schedules.
This is a one-year paid internship with the potential for extension. We offer our Payne Scholars opportunities to build
their resume and expand their network. They will interact and network with representatives from the business community,
from lobbying and advocacy organizations, and with legislators and their staff on a regular basis.
Applications will be reviewed and decisions will be made on a rolling basis. Please send cover letter and resume to
Amirah Hussain, Director of Government Relations: Amirah@njchamber.com
New Jersey Chamber of Commerce