Internships

Internships

Future Global Leaders is an internship program open to college students and recent college graduates. We offer international market research internships, which provide practical experience for interns and assist Maine businesses. These paid, part-time internships are located in our Portland office.

As Research Assistants, MITC interns learn about international trade from Maine’s point of view, hone internet and other secondary research skills, and gain valuable insight into what real Maine companies doing business internationally need to know. The Future Global Leaders program emphasizes professional development, student-centered project delegation, and experiential learning outside of the MITC office.

Candidates must have completed their junior year of college before beginning the internship and are selected from an applicant pool based on academic performance (GPA of 3.0 or higher required), demonstrated research and writing ability, and interest in the international trade arena. In addition, candidates must be currently living in Maine and legally eligible to work in Maine.

Application Deadline for Summer 2023

Wednesday, March 1 at 5:00 PM

Internship Benefits 

  • Reimbursement – Interns are compensated at the rate of $16 per hour.
  • Academic credit – Students typically receive academic credit for MITC internships.
  • Experience – Solid, practical work experience researching international markets in a professional environment.
  • Connections – MITC Research Assistants have the opportunity to work directly with Maine companies under proper supervision. Research Assistants are encouraged to go on company visits and client calls with staff members when appropriate.
  • Perspective – Assisting Maine companies with their export or import-related questions offers students a unique window into the challenges and opportunities for Maine companies doing business internationally.
  • In-depth analysis – Possibility of long-term assignment to course-specific, country-specific or industry-specific projects, including biotechnology, environmental technology, secondary wood products, composite materials, consumer goods, food, and software/IT.
  • Access – To MITC programs and events, as well as events and seminars hosted by federal and state agencies and other economic development organizations6

Responsibilities

  • Fielding technical assistance queries from MITC clients
  • Determining product classifications, industry codes, tariff rates and taxes for imported and exported goods
  • Researching “best markets” for products
  • Sourcing materials internationally
  • Researching industry and product-specific trade leads
  • Locating appropriate country-specific trade regulations, market research reports, and news articles
  • Researching trade statistics

How to Apply

We look forward to the opportunity to review your application, which should include:

  • A cover letter explaining your background, your reason for applying, and how an internship at MITC will further your future goals.
  • A current resume.
  • A copy of your grades (does not need to be an *official* transcript – an online printout will suffice).
  • A writing sample (an essay or report that you have submitted for one of your courses).

Send completed package to:

Maine International Trade Center
ATTN: Internships
2 Portland Fish Pier, Suite 204
Portland, ME 04101
– or –

Internship