Consulting, Government Projects and Trade Missions Internship (Start Date: January 2027)

Interns in the Consulting department will work out of the GACC Midwest office in downtown Chicago. Applicants must either currently reside in the Greater Chicago Area or be available for relocation before the start date of the internship.

About Us

The mission of the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest (GACC Midwest) is to promote and assist bilateral trade and investment between Germany and the United States. All internships offer the opportunity to gain work experience in a truly bilingual and bicultural environment, with support from colleagues that can help speed the learning curve of understanding intercultural differences and nuances.

As part of the Consulting department, our Government Project and Trade Missions Team's initiatives facilitate technological and business knowledge exchanges in various fields between industry experts, policy makers, and academia in Germany and the US through various industry events and initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Support with project management, planning, and implementing both virtual & in-person business delegation programs fostering German American collaboration in industries such as advanced manufacturing, automotive, agtech, renewable energy, and sustainability
• Participate in event and conference planning and implementation for the delegations
• Research & identification of and outreach to potential business partners in the US (sales and distribution partners, potential clients, network partners etc.) as well as coordination and facilitation of B2B meetings
• Primary and secondary research to gather market insights for client companies
• Aid in the research, writing, and potential publication of market analyses
• Support in answering initial inquiries from German companies on topics such as import and export regulations, product certification in the US, and general questions on US market entry as part of the public function of the German American Chamber of Commerce

Requirements

• High-level proficiency in the English language as well as advanced German language skills (a plus)
• Strong research and communication skills (verbal and written) with attention to detail and a strong work ethic
• Strong understanding of fundamental business concepts
• Strong interest in learning more about new technology and its applications and a desire to assist in promoting these new technologies in the U.S. market
• A great interest in working with an international team and a high level of motivation to help GACC Midwest accomplish its mission

Benefits

• Opportunity to gain hands-on experience and put new skills into practice
• Networking opportunities with key members in our extensive membership base
• State-of-the-art office space in downtown Chicago overlooking Millennium Park
• Complimentary German lessons offered by the Goethe Institute specifically for employees
• Access to a fitness center with free classes and community events within the office building

Pay

$3000/month

Schedule

Duration: 9-12 months

Testimonials

"Having studied German and International Relations for my bachelors, I was looking for an opportunity to put my educational background into practice. My time at GACC Midwest was instrumental to helping me improve my German in a professional, career-focused context, while allowing me to continue pursuing my interests in international trade, diplomacy, and cooperation. Interning at GACC Midwest's Government Projects & Trade Missions team marked a very memorable kickoff to my professional career. I had the chance to participate in delegations, attend networking events, and even run my own projects. If you just graduated and are looking for a hands-on experience to jumpstart your career, then I strongly recommend that you apply!"
Laurent L., Former Government Projects & Trade Missions Intern

"After a smooth and very transparent application process I was able to apply for my J-1 visa which allowed me to return to the US for a full year. I especially felt supported when it comes to the formalities associated to the J-1 visa process which in my opinion gives one a strong reasoning to get your visa processed through GACC Midwest. After 10 months of my internship, I can look back at a very valuable time which taught me a lot and gave me the opportunity to engage with many Americans also outside of the office. When doing this, personal growth and self-development in almost all areas of your personality are guaranteed. Being exposed to a city like Chicago for one year is an experience which any person in their twenties should cherish and embrace."
Fabian F., Former Government Projects & Trade Missions Intern