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Policy Research Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

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Policy Research information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$25.6K

$66.6K

$126.6K

How much do policy research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy research in Raleigh, NC is $66,618.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,979.00 and $80,709.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is policy research?

Policy research is the process of systematically investigating and analyzing public policies, programs, or proposals to provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders. It involves collecting and evaluating data, assessing the effectiveness of current policies, and exploring alternative approaches to address social, economic, or political issues. Policy researchers work in government agencies, think tanks, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations to inform decision-making and improve outcomes for communities.

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

To thrive as a Policy Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a background in public policy or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS or Stata, as well as proficiency in literature review databases and policy analysis frameworks, is commonly required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are crucial soft skills that help convey complex information clearly. These competencies enable effective evidence-based recommendations and impactful contributions to policy development.

How does a Policy Researcher typically collaborate with policymakers and other stakeholders in their daily work?

Policy Researchers often work closely with policymakers, advocacy groups, and subject matter experts to ensure their findings are both practical and actionable. Daily tasks may include drafting reports, presenting research results in meetings, and responding to feedback from stakeholders. Collaboration is key, as researchers must balance rigorous analysis with the real-world needs and constraints of the organizations and communities they serve. Regular communication and teamwork help ensure that research informs policy decisions effectively and remains relevant to pressing issues.

What is the difference between Policy Research vs Policy Analysis?

AspectPolicy ResearchPolicy Analysis
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, government agenciesGovernment agencies, consulting firms, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for gathering data and understanding issuesUsed for evaluating options and making recommendations

Policy Research involves gathering data, conducting studies, and understanding issues, while Policy Analysis focuses on evaluating options and providing recommendations based on research findings. Both roles often overlap but serve different stages in the policy development process.

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Research jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Policy Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Research jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Policy Research jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Policy Research jobs in Raleigh, NC look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Research jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Policy Research jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Policy Research job openings:
Policy Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 53% Full Time, 31% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $66,618 per year, or $32 per hour.
Administrative Intern Policy & Legislative Research

Administrative Intern Policy & Legislative Research

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

$18 - $22.84/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Duke University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 54 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

436th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Duke University:

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Be You.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality, curiosity, and the power of ideas to drive positive change. As the Administrative Intern (Policy & Legislative Research), you'll join a mission-driven team advancing evidence-based solutions to extreme heat and climate resilience. You'll collaborate closely with senior staff and contribute your analytical skills, academic training, and unique perspective to real-world policy work that spans local, state, and national contexts.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a research-intensive environment, values public service, and wants hands-on exposure to policy development during a period of active legislative engagement.

Be Bold.

You won't just observe HPIH's policy work-you'll help shape it. In this role, you'll engage directly with live research and legislative analysis that informs decision-makers and strengthens climate resilience strategies.

What You'll Do:

Research and synthesize state-level budget mechanisms, appropriations structures, and public finance instruments relevant to heat mitigation and climate resilience initiatives

Support legislative tracking and statutory analysis across priority states, applying established codebook frameworks to identify trends, gaps, and emerging policy models

Assist with literature reviews, background research, and memo drafting that support active policy development workstreams

Contribute to documentation, organization, and coordination tasks that enable multiple concurrent policy projects to move forward efficiently

Work closely with senior staff, gaining exposure to interdisciplinary policy research and government-facing analysis

Choose Duke.

At Duke, you'll find a collaborative academic and policy environment that values rigor, integrity, and impact. This internship offers:

Meaningful, hands-on experience in policy research and legislative analysis

Mentorship from experienced professionals working at the intersection of climate, public finance, and government

The opportunity to apply graduate-level training to real-world policy challenges

A culture that supports learning, inclusion, and bold thinking in service of the public good

What You Bring

Required Qualifications

Current enrollment in or recent completion of a graduate program in public policy, public administration, environmental policy, law, or a related field

Demonstrated experience in policy research, including use of legislative databases and government document sources

Working knowledge of state-level budget processes and public finance instruments

Experience with legislative analysis, including bill tracking and statutory interpretation

Foundational understanding of extreme heat mitigation, climate resilience, or environmental hazard management

Preferred Qualifications

Master of Public Policy (MPP) or equivalent advanced degree in progress or completed

Familiarity with heat action planning, hazard mitigation frameworks, or climate resilience policy

Experience supporting multi-stakeholder policy initiatives or government relations work

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and bring your curiosity, commitment, and bold ideas to Duke-where policy research turns into real-world impact.


Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $18.00 to USD $22.84. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.


Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/


Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy and pregnancy- related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.


Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas-an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.


Essential Physical Job Functions:
Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: DAAS@duke.edu; phone: 919-668-1267).

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About Duke University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Duke is regarded as one of America's leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Durham, NC, US

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