2

Entry Level Public Policy Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Consultant (Public Sector)

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$70K - $90K/yr

This entry-level role focuses on executing project tasks, conducting analysis, and developing ... Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business, Public Administration, Public Policy, or related field ...

Public Safety Dispatcher I

Brea, CA · On-site

$66K - $85K/yr

DISTINGUISHING CHARACTERISTICS This is the entry level classification in the Public Safety Dispatcher series. Incumbents of this classification are trained in department policies, procedures and ...

Entry level Janitor

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

... public areas with the necessary supplies. Sanitization of machinery, equipment, and multiple ... Adheres to company policies and safety procedures and follows an established routine. Requirements ...

Entry level Janitor

Rancho Cucamonga, CA

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Restock bathrooms, kitchens, offices, and other public areas with the necessary supplies. \n \n \n ... Adheres to company policies and safety procedures and follows an established routine. \n \n \n ...

Food Service

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$13.50 - $19.92/mo

A public school food service employee - often titled a Food Service Worker or School Nutrition ... These roles are generally governed by both local school board policies and state regulations from ...

Intern - External Affairs

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18.50 - $22/hr

TCA is a public agency responsible for planning, financing, constructing and operating the state ... Perform entry-level professional work * Detail oriented * Self-starter * Well-organized EDUCATION ...

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC This recruitment is being held to establish an open eligible list to fill ... As a non-sworn, entry-level member of the department, the Police Recruit will continue their ...

Police Recruit

Menifee, CA · On-site

$66K/yr

OPEN TO THE PUBLIC This recruitment is being held to establish an open eligible list to fill ... As a non-sworn, entry-level member of the department, the Police Recruit will continue their ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Entry Level Public Policy information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$33.9K

$79.7K

$119.5K

How much do entry level public policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level public policy in Riverside, CA is $79,663.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $92,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Public Policy professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Public Policy professional, you need strong research, analytical, and written communication skills, typically supported by a bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, data visualization software, and legislative tracking systems is often required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively help individuals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for effectively evaluating policy impacts, communicating findings, and supporting the development of evidence-based policy recommendations.

What are entry level public policy jobs?

Entry level public policy jobs are positions designed for individuals who are new to the field of public policy, often recent graduates or those with limited professional experience. These roles typically involve supporting policy research, data analysis, advocacy, and administrative tasks within government agencies, think tanks, non-profits, or consulting firms. Common job titles include policy analyst, legislative assistant, research assistant, or program coordinator. These positions provide foundational experience and exposure to the policy-making process, helping individuals build the skills and knowledge needed for advancement in the field.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on as an entry-level public policy professional?

As an entry-level public policy professional, you can expect to support research, draft policy briefs, and help analyze legislative proposals. Your daily work may include gathering and synthesizing data, monitoring policy developments, preparing reports, and assisting with stakeholder communications. You'll often collaborate with team members such as analysts, senior policy advisors, and external partners to contribute to broader policy initiatives. This role provides a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the policy-making process while developing your analytical and communication skills.
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Public Policy jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Public Policy jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Public Policy job openings:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Policy job openings in Riverside, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 1% As Needed, 56% Full Time, 41% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $79,663 per year, or $38.3 per hour.
Intern, Government Relations

$19 - $22/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Orange County Transportation Authority rating

9.7

Company rating: 9.7 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 649 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Job Description

College Intern - Government Relations

Join OCTA's Government Relations team as an Intern and gain hands-on experience in public policy, legislative affairs, and government relations. Under direct supervision, this role performs entry-level professional duties supporting legislative monitoring, policy research, data analysis, and reporting activities

OCTA's College Intern Program is a year-round paid student/intern program. You will gain real world work experience on meaningful projects under the guidance of a transportation professional. You will have the opportunity to use problem solving, communication and decision-making skills as you gain valuable work experience. Interns gain valuable exposure to the transportation industry while working alongside experienced professionals and building practical skills for future careers in government, public affairs, and policy. You will also work with a mentor and benefit from career counseling.

The pay range is from $19.00 - $22.00 per hour depending on your education level. This position is not eligible for employee benefits. The work schedule will consist of approximately 20 hours a week, not to exceed 1,000 hours within a continuous 12-month period.

This posting will remain open until a candidate is selected.

What You'll Do

  • Monitor federal and state legislative activities impacting OCTA and the transportation industry
  • Maintain legislative tracking databases, bill files, and status reports
  • Conduct research and analyze data to support policy initiatives, department studies, and reports
  • Compile, interpret, and evaluate information related to legislative and government affairs activities
  • Assist with preparing reports, presentations, and project documentation
  • Support department projects through data collection, system updates, and administrative research
  • Utilize computer applications and databases to support Government Relations activities

What We're Looking For

  • Currently enrolled full-time college student (Freshman, Sophomore, Junior, or Senior) at an accredited two- or four-year college or university
  • Pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Political Science, Public Administration, Public Policy, Government, Communications, Business, or a related field.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher
  • Interest in government relations, legislative affairs, public policy, or transportation issues
  • Strong research, analytical, and organizational skills
  • Ability to interpret data and prepare clear, concise reports
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer-based research tools
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to learn quickly and assume increasing responsibility

Why You'll Love It Here

  • Gain real-world experience in government relations and legislative affairs
  • Work on meaningful projects that support public transportation and regional mobility
  • Learn from experienced professionals and receive mentorship and career guidance
  • Build valuable research, policy, and communication skills
  • Explore career opportunities in transportation, government, and public service

Join a team where innovation, integrity, and strategic thinking are valued.
Apply now to help shape the future of OCTA's programs.

OCTA is an equal employment opportunity employer that recruits, hires, and promotes qualified people without regard to race, color, religion, creed, ancestry, national origin, age, sex, pregnancy, gender, gender identity and/or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, military and veteran status, or other legally protected status.