The National Retail Federation is a trade association that advocates for the people, brands, policies and ideas that help retail succeed. From its headquarters in Washington, D.C., NRF empowers the industry that powers the economy. Retail is the nation’s largest private-sector employer, contributing $5.3 trillion to annual GDP and supporting more than one in four U.S. jobs. For over a century, NRF has been a voice for every retailer and every retail job, educating, inspiring and communicating the powerful impact retail has on local communities and global economies. 

We have exciting internship opportunities for college students to learn valuable insights about the retail industry and the role of a trade association. Do you have a passion for the retail industry? Do you enjoy learning and gaining hands-on experience working with a team? If yes, this may be the summer internship for you. Interested candidates should apply with a resume and cover letter by February 27, 2026, to be considered.

Program Dates: June 1, 2026 – July 30, 2026

Hourly Rate: $25 – $28

Location: Washington, D.C. Office

Work Model: Hybrid — In-office Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; remote Monday and Friday

The Research intern will provide the NRF Research Team support in the areas of survey research, data analysis, research communication, and data visualization. The intern will be providing support to ongoing research projects and initiatives. Specific responsibilities may include supporting in-field survey work, measuring the success of research content and webpages and analyzing both 1st and 3rd party data sources.

Essential Functions

• Analyze quantitative and qualitative data to identify trends, patterns, and actionable insights. This may include data from surveys, web traffic and government sources
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations to communicate research findings to internal stakeholders, including the VP and Executive Director for Research
• Support research events by managing invitations and RSVP lists, coordinating attendee logistics and assisting with follow-up activities
• Assist in creating and updating data visualizations and graphics, including dashboards and infographics
• Support on-going research projects including assisting in programming and testing surveys, tracking responses and providing follow up and status reports as needed
• Carry out specific tasks/activities as assigned by the supervisor throughout the internship
• Write and submit a weekly project report to supervisors

• Current undergraduate student with at least sophomore standing, pursuing a degree in analytical or insights focused fields such as economics, marketing, or market research
• Ability to effectively work independently and with a team
• Demonstrated interest and/or coursework in retail data, consumer research and/or marketing
• Ability to summarize data and insights in written and graphical formats
• Strong organization and project management skills with exceptional attention to detail 
• Working knowledge and comfort working across Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word
• Familiarity with Google Analytics
• Comfortable working in a high-paced, demanding environment

Application Deadline: Must apply by February 27, 2026, for consideration.

The National Retail Federation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status.