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Internship Public Policy Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Public Policy Director

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$134K - $164K/yr

The Public Policy Director will advance the Amputee Coalition's mission through its legislative and ... Lead key organizational policy initiatives and programs, through policy research, legislative ...

Public Policy Director

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Public Policy Director will advance the Amputee Coalition's mission through its legislative and ... Lead key organizational policy initiatives and programs, through policy research, legislative ...

The Public Policy Director monitors state and federal legislation and regulations that impact the ... Lead key organizational policy initiatives and programs, through policy research, legislative ...

Develop informative slide deck presentations, research briefs, advocacy materials, and other ... In partnership with the Public Policy Directors, contribute to the development and implementation ...

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How much do internship public policy research jobs pay per month?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average monthly pay for internship public policy research in the United States is $6,439.50, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $4,416.67 and $7,666.67 per month, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Internship in Public Policy Research?

An Internship in Public Policy Research is a temporary position for students or recent graduates to gain hands-on experience in analyzing, developing, and evaluating public policies. Interns typically work with think tanks, government agencies, or advocacy organizations to assist with data collection, policy analysis, report writing, and event organization. This role helps individuals build skills in research, critical thinking, and communication, while learning about the policymaking process and current public issues. Such internships are valuable stepping stones for careers in government, non-profits, or academia.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a Public Policy Research internship?

As a Public Policy Research intern, you will typically assist with collecting and analyzing data, preparing policy briefs, and supporting the development of reports on current legislative issues. You may also participate in stakeholder meetings, contribute to literature reviews, and help organize outreach or advocacy events. Interns often work under the guidance of senior policy analysts or researchers, giving you the opportunity to learn about real-world policy processes and gain experience collaborating with diverse teams in a fast-paced environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Internship Public Policy Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Internship Public Policy Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a background in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy databases, and presentation software such as Excel, SPSS, or Tableau is typically required. Attention to detail, written communication, and initiative are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate policy analysis, clear reports, and impactful recommendations to inform decision-making.

What is the difference between Internship Public Policy Research vs Public Policy Analyst?

AspectInternship Public Policy ResearchPublic Policy Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, some knowledge of policy or research methodsBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentInternship setting, often in government, think tanks, or NGOsFull-time role in government agencies, think tanks, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageInternship programs for students or entry-level candidatesProfessional role for those analyzing and developing policies

Internship Public Policy Research positions are entry-level, often held by students or recent graduates gaining experience. Public Policy Analysts are full-time professionals responsible for analyzing, developing, and evaluating policies. While internships focus on learning and supporting research, analysts take on more responsibility in policy formulation and decision-making.

More about Internship Public Policy Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Internship Public Policy Research jobs? Cities with the most Internship Public Policy Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy Research jobs? The most popular types of Public Policy Research jobs are:
What states have the most Internship Public Policy Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Internship Public Policy Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Internship Public Policy Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,274 per year, or $37.2 per hour.

Internship: Public Policy (Winter 2027)

National Center on Sexual Exploitation

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

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Job description

Salary: 0

ABOUT NCOSE & INTERNSHIP PROGRAM:

The National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE) exists because people should be free to live and love without sexual abuse and exploitation! If you share this vision and want to help create a culture where all individuals can thrive, then we invite you to join us!

The Exploitation Prevention & Advocacy Internship program enables you to participate in the ongoing work of defending human dignity. Internships offer a unique opportunity to combat sexual abuse and exploitation while gaining new skills through hands-on opportunities that seek to prevent exploitation before it begins. Interns also enjoy abundant opportunities to meet nationally recognized leaders in the field of anti-sexual exploitation and attend education briefings. The program also offers interns an opportunity to investigate their individual strengths and develop new skills.
NCOSE is focused on mass-scale prevention of sexual abuse and exploitation and deploys the tactics of corporate advocacy, public policy, civil litigation, and grassroots mobilization to reach this. Read about some of our recent victories here.


ABOUT THIS POSITION:

NCOSEs legislative policy efforts aim to defend dignity and combat sexploitation through political advocacy at the national and state levels with bi-partisan support of all legislative solutions. We believe this task is both offensive and defensive in that we must prevent bad legislation from being enacted while working to proactively educate Congress and state legislatures so that policymakers instead produce good legislation that will help protect victims of sexual exploitation as well as prevent sexual exploitation. Interns play an important role in this collaborative work.


*We are typically inundated with applications. We greatly appreciate your patience as we carefully review each candidate and ask that you hold your questions until contacted for an interview.


TERM: January 6- April 16, 2027; possible extension: six months or 1 year


RESPONSIBILITIES WILL INCLUDE*:

  • Perform work on special projects as assigned by the Public Policy Department or the CEO. Such work may include:
    • Research state and federal legislation, stakeholders, and assist with legislative policy efforts.
    • Help conduct advocacy campaigns to advance legislative efforts.
    • Write blogs on sexual exploitation issues and NCOSE legislative priorities.
    • Assist in writing letters and emails to state legislators, members of Congress, and key stakeholders as needed.
    • Assist with grassroots roots mobilization, strategic planning, and other aspects of legislative advocacy.
    • Draft memos, fact sheets, and/or PowerPoint presentations.
    • Help organize NCOSE events.
  • Represent NCOSE (as an observer) and report on events at coalition meetings, as well as congressional hearings as directed.
  • Keep abreast of current developments in state legislation and conducts research (as directed) using various media outlets.
  • Assist NCOSE at conferences, meetings, events, and/or committees as directed.
  • Assist as needed with office management including answering telephones, responding to email or other written requests, drafting correspondence, and filing.

*Tasks may shift based on the organizations current need and opportunities.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Passionate about opposing sexual exploitation, as well as a passion for NCOSEs mission, vision and values.
  • Strong organizational skills.
  • Ability to handle multiple tasks and projects.
  • Independent worker: must be able to complete tasks without constant management from staff.
  • Proficiency with basic Microsoft Office applications; mail merge, formatting letters, data management in Excel, etc.
  • Excellent writing and communication skills.
  • Can provide their own working laptop and charger.


BENEFITS:

  • Hands-on work with passionate, talented team members
  • Mentorship from some of the movements kindest and most passionate leaders and in-depth 10-week training on various exploitation issues
  • Incredible networking opportunities with movement leaders
  • A creative, collaborative, and inclusive company culture
  • Opportunities to develop professionally and uncover skills you didnt know you had
  • Real-life experiences that will provide you with the confidence to delve into your next adventure


COMPENSATION:

NCOSE internships are unpaid.


SCHEDULE:

This position requires 20-40 hours per week. Candidates must be mostly available during NCOSEs office hours of Monday through Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm EST in order to coordinate with the team. Our team is in the office on M, W, & Th and remote on T & F. Evenings and weekends are typically not eligible for a NCOSE internship.


LOCATION:

This internship is at NCOSEs office headquarters in Washington, DC.

TO APPLY:

To apply, submit the checklist items and complete the questionnaire.

Cover Letter describing your interest in a NCOSE Internship

Resume

Two Letters of Reference

Unofficial Transcript

Writing Sample


Incomplete applications, including those without reference letters, will not be considered.

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About the National Center on Sexual Exploitation

Please visit ourAbout Pageto learn more.

You can find impact reports from previous yearshere.