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Entry Level Public Policy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Entry-level Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$31.25 - $41.83/hr

Job Title Entry-level Planner Location Sacramento, CA - US (Primary) Category Comprehensive ... You have an interest in research, public policy development, and creating development and design ...

Entry-level Planner

Sacramento, CA · Hybrid

$31.25 - $41.83/hr

PlaceWorks has an immediate need for a full-time, entry-level planner to join the Planning team in ... You have an interest in research, public policy development, and creating development and design ...

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Entry Level Public Policy information

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$32.5K

$76.4K

$114.5K

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

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level public policy in the United States is $76,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $88,500.00 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.
More about Entry Level Public Policy jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Public Policy jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Public Policy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy jobs? The most popular types of Public Policy jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Public Policy jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Public Policy jobs include:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Public Policy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,359 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Budget and Policy Analyst - Ref #EX-BS-06

Budget and Policy Analyst - Ref #EX-BS-06

New York State

Albany, NY • On-site, Remote

$56K - $67K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 186 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description Advance your career in government finance, management, and public policy at the New York State Division of the Budget (DOB). DOB develops, negotiates, and implements one of the largest government budgets in the country, which provides the fiscal roadmap for State programs, policies, and services. We are seeking motivated analysts and critical thinkers to join our team.

DOB analysts rely on their skills for creative problem solving, attention to detail, and comprehensive communication to respond to emerging challenges, identify and develop solutions, and ensure the fiscal health of the State. The Budget Planning and Legislation Unit (BSU) is responsible for agency-wide coordination of major components of the New York State budget. These efforts are supported by the processes and applications managed by BSU staff to aid in the State's fiscal management decision-making and fulfill statutory requirements for reporting.

This position provides the opportunity to work with a team of seasoned supervisors and staff throughout DOB, gaining holistic insight into the agency's organization and functions. Responsibilities Budget and Policy Analysts at DOB are typically involved in: Developing in-depth knowledge of program areas, including detailed analysis of broader trends (e.g trends in the policy area, budgetary and spending trends, economic trends and implications, etc.), potential impacts on program operations, and collaborating with counterparts to understand agency and program operations, issues, and challenges. Drafting recommendations and materials to guide decision-making, including articulating nuanced issues, illustrating trends and projections, and synthesizing data

Managing the State's Financial Plan including by projecting and monitoring spending trends, identifying challenges, and working with counterparts to mitigate fiscal risks. Analyze process and systems needs and develop/implement solutions to improve the budget process, including the DOB-wide collection of information. Assist other staff with procedural and technical questions (e.g

application troubleshooting, reporting discrepancies, etc.). Minimum Qualifications Qualifications Minimum qualifications for our title series can be found on our Salaries and Career Paths page. Candidates for this position should demonstrate the following: Ability to work both independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders

Fluency in Excel formulas and functions, and other Microsoft applications. Strong written, visual, and verbal communication skills. The ideal candidate will have analytic ability and a willingness to learn.

Key skills for this role include objectivity, flexibility, and adaptability. All positions are located in Albany, NY, and weekly onsite work is required coupled with some remote work flexibility. Mandatory overtime may be required.

Additional Comments Benefits of Working at DOB Learn about DOB's benefits: including health and wellness perks; work-life balance programs; and learning and development opportunities at https://www.budget.ny.gov/employment/benefits.html. Experience of Working at DOB Entry level analysts benefit from the knowledge and mentoring of seasoned staff while learning policy development and implementation. For more on what it's like to work at DOB, check out DOB's Employment video series

How to Apply To be considered for this position with DOB, please visit www.budget.ny.gov/employment, and select this title from the list of current opportunities, and then select 'Apply Now'. You may also complete a 'General Interest Application' located at the top of the Open Positions page. By selecting your areas of interest, you will be considered for all current and future open positions at DOB

Applications will remain available for our hiring managers for 3 months. If you require assistance in applying for employment with the DOB, or if you have any questions about working for DOB, please contact CareerOpportunities@budget.ny.gov. AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The Division of the Budget is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

We celebrate diversity and encourage women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, members of ethnic minorities, foreign-born residents, and veterans to apply. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, age, veteran status, disability status, arrest record or criminal conviction history, or any other category protected by law. We are happy to provide religious accommodations during the hiring process for those in need.

If you have a disability or special need that requires a reasonable accommodation, please send a request to Accessibility@budget.ny.gov. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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