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Policy Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NAACP LDF Unpaid

Intern, Policy

Manhattan, NY

$16.50 - $22/hr

LDF is seeking policy interns for Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026 to support the policy team across all four LDF core issues: criminal justice, economic justice, education equity, and political ...

Legal Defense Fund

Intern, Policy

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

LDF is seeking policy interns for Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026 to support the policy team across all four LDF core issues: criminal justice, economic justice, education equity, and political ...

ACLU of New Jersey

Policy Intern

Newark, NJ

$15.75 - $21/hr

Policy Intern Summer 2025 Location Newark, NJ (Hybrid) Department Policy Department Deadline date ... Interns can expect a hybrid work schedule, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays being in-person in our ...

Active Minds

Policy Intern (Fall 2026)

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$18/hr

About the Active Minds Internship Program Active Minds is the nation's leading nonprofit ... Active Minds pays interns $18 per hour Policy Internship We're seeking a motivated intern to ...

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How much do policy internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for policy internship in the United States is $17.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Policy Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Intern, you typically need strong research, analytical, and written communication skills, often supported by coursework in political science, public policy, or related fields. Familiarity with policy analysis software, legislative tracking tools, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are commonly required. Attention to detail, adaptability, and effective teamwork are crucial soft skills that set interns apart. These abilities are essential for producing high-quality policy briefs, supporting decision-making, and contributing positively to dynamic policy teams.

What is the difference between Policy Internship vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy InternshipPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate, some internships may require coursework in political science or public policyBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; some roles prefer experience or certifications
Work EnvironmentTemporary, entry-level position often within government agencies, NGOs, or think tanksFull-time professional role in government, advocacy groups, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations to train and evaluate potential future employees; common in public sector and non-profitsEstablished role for analyzing, developing, and evaluating policies; common in government and policy consultancies

In summary, a Policy Internship is an entry-level, temporary position ideal for gaining experience, while a Policy Analyst is a full-time professional role requiring more experience and credentials. Internships often serve as a stepping stone toward becoming a Policy Analyst.

What is a Policy Internship?

A Policy Internship is a temporary position designed to give students or recent graduates hands-on experience working in policy analysis, research, advocacy, or development, typically within government agencies, non-profit organizations, think tanks, or private sector policy teams. Interns assist with tasks such as researching policy issues, drafting reports, attending meetings, and supporting advocacy campaigns. The internship provides valuable insight into the policy-making process and can help interns build professional networks and skills relevant to careers in public policy or related fields.

What types of projects or tasks can I expect to work on during a policy internship?

As a policy intern, you’ll typically engage in a variety of tasks such as conducting research on legislative issues, drafting policy briefs, attending meetings or hearings, and assisting with data analysis. You may also help prepare reports or presentations for stakeholders and participate in team discussions to develop policy recommendations. This hands-on experience provides valuable insight into the policy-making process and allows you to collaborate closely with experienced professionals, making it an excellent opportunity to build your skills and professional network.
What cities are hiring for Policy Internship jobs? Cities with the most Policy Internship job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Policy jobs? The most popular types of Policy jobs are:
What states have the most Policy Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Policy Internship jobs include:
Policy Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,995 per year, or $17.3 per hour.
Director, SSU Institute for Appalachian Public Policy

Director, SSU Institute for Appalachian Public Policy

Shawnee State University

Portsmouth, OH • On-site

$69K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Salary: $69,380.00 - $78,052.00 Annually
Location : 940 Second St. Portsmouth, OH 45662, OH
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: POS-755
Division: Executive Affairs
Opening Date: 11/21/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Description Summary
The Director, Institute for Appalachian Public Policy's mission and purpose is to develop, implement, and oversee a public policy research apparatus aimed at prioritizing research, data, and recommendations to advance Appalachian Ohio's socio-economic development and public health; develop and implement a public policy internship program for SSU students; and develop and coordinate IAPP Conferences/Symposiums.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
FUNCTIONS:
  1. Direct the Appalachian Ohio public policy research apparatus
  2. Coordinate IAPP Conferences/Symposiums
  3. Lead the Bears on the Square government and public policy internship program for SSU students
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Direct the Appalachian Ohio public policy research apparatus
    1. Conduct contract, and produce actionable research, utilizing visiting faculty, SSU students, and institute fellows
    2. Interface with policy makers, corporate and NGO leadership at the federal, state, and local level to develop and maintain a dynamic policy agenda involving education, economic workforce development, health care, and addiction/recovery, with future topics to be developed
    3. Deliver research to support SSU and the SSU grants operation, community and regional partners, and contribute to regional and national conversation on Appalachian Ohio topics
  1. IAPP Conferences/Symposiums
    1. Plan and execute all aspects of IAPP conferences/symposiums
    2. Follow up and analyze conferences/symposiums for continuous improvement
  1. Lead the Bears on the Square government and public policy internship program for SSU students
    1. Competitive application in spring to name 2-4 SSU Appalachian Public Policy Scholars
    2. Fall orientation and training program
    3. Spring advocacy visits with SSU leadership to regional, state, and federal government officials

Minimum Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  1. Ability to conduct actionable, peer-reviewed research and analyze and evaluate data
  2. Initiative and creativity in project development
  3. Strong project management skills
  4. Ability to establish and maintain meaningful relationships with university partners, scholars, thought leaders, and policy-makers at all levels

Minimum Qualifications
  1. MBA or Masters in Social Sciences required
  2. 5+ years' experience in government relations, state and Appalachian policy in the areas of higher education, college access, rural health care, and rural economic and workforce development issues
  3. Experience and research emphasis in Ohio and Appalachian Ohio is preferred

Shawnee State University offers a competitive starting salary (commensurate with overall qualifications) including an attractive benefits package. See Overview of Employee Benefits for more information. Some of our benefits include:
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Winter Break in December
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Tuition Waiver
  • Life Insurance
  • Retirement Plans

Apply