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Public Affairs Graduate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KINAOLE SERVICE CENTER

D or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education ... Experience in public affairs organizations is required, unless waived by Project Officer. * Skilled ...

U.S. Navy

Public Affairs Officer (Reserve)

Eugene, OR · On-site

About Public Affairs Officers (PAOs) are masters of communication, defending our fleet from ... Find out more about additional education opportunities for Officers, including post-graduate school.

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Public Affairs Graduate information

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How much do public affairs graduate jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for public affairs graduate in the United States is $85,669.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,000.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public affairs graduate?

Public Affairs Graduates are individuals who have completed academic programs focused on public policy, government relations, communication, and advocacy. They are trained to analyze, develop, and influence policies and strategies that affect the public sector, private organizations, and non-profits. These graduates often pursue careers in government agencies, lobbying firms, public relations, and international organizations, where they work to address social, political, and economic issues. Their skills include research, communication, policy analysis, and strategic planning.

What are some typical projects or tasks a public affairs graduate can expect to work on during their first year?

As a Public Affairs Graduate, you can expect to support the team with a variety of tasks such as monitoring media coverage, preparing briefing materials, assisting in drafting press releases, and coordinating stakeholder engagement activities. You'll likely participate in research projects, help organize public events, and contribute to internal and external communications. These responsibilities provide hands-on exposure to the field and allow you to collaborate closely with experienced public affairs professionals, communications teams, and external stakeholders, offering a strong foundation for further career growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public affairs graduate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Affairs Graduate, you need a solid grounding in public policy, communication, and research, usually backed by a relevant degree in public affairs, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with media monitoring tools, social media platforms, and data analysis software is common in this role. Outstanding interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability help you build relationships and respond effectively to shifting public and organizational needs. These competencies are crucial for effectively shaping public perception, supporting advocacy efforts, and contributing to successful organizational communication strategies.

What is the difference between Public Affairs Graduate vs Public Relations Assistant?

AspectPublic Affairs GraduatePublic Relations Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science, communications, or related fieldBachelor's degree in communications, marketing, or related field
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, NGOs, corporate public affairs departmentsPR firms, corporate communications teams, media outlets
Employer & Industry UsagePublic sector, advocacy groups, policy organizationsPrivate sector, marketing agencies, media companies
Common Search & ComparisonPublic Affairs Graduate vs Public Relations Assistant

Public Affairs Graduates typically focus on policy, government relations, and advocacy, often working in public sector or nonprofit settings. Public Relations Assistants concentrate on media relations, branding, and communication strategies within private companies or PR firms. While both roles involve communication skills and similar educational backgrounds, their work environments and primary objectives differ, making each role suited to different career paths within the broader communications industry.

What cities are hiring for Public Affairs Graduate jobs?

Cities with the most Public Affairs Graduate job openings:

What states have the most Public Affairs Graduate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Affairs Graduate jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Public Affairs Graduate jobs?

For Public Affairs Graduate jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Public Affairs Graduate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Affairs Graduate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $85,669 per year, or $41.2 per hour.

Intern - Public Affairs

Washington, DC • On-site

National Restaurant Association
Restaurants • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about National Restaurant Associationexternal

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The National Restaurant Association and National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation are proud to be part of a highly respected industry, providing hospitality, opportunity, and quality of life. Much like the industry we represent, we have a dynamic, diverse, and inclusive culture, grounded in trust, hospitality, collaboration, and innovation.
We currently have an immediate paid internship opportunity within our Public Affairs Department, providing a front-row seat to the inner workings of Government Relations, Public Policy, Grassroots, and other areas critical to our Public Affairs efforts. As an integral member of the Public Affairs team, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of initiatives related to Federal, State, and Local legislation and policy, work with member companies and State Restaurant Associations, attend events on Capitol Hill and/or around Washington, D.C. and more.
Ideal candidates include recent college graduates, and current undergrad, or graduate-level students enrolled in academic programs related to Government Affairs, Public Policy, Political Science, Business, Communications, or related areas of study. The position requires confidence and diplomacy to interact at all levels inside and outside the organization. Successful candidates will be self-starters; have strong oral, written, and research skills; and work with a high level of accountability and attention to detail. Previous experience and/or knowledge of the restaurant industry is preferred but not required.
The internship will run for approximately twelve weeks. Interns must be available between 20-40 hours per week. Position operates out of our DC office, with a required three days onsite, Monday - Wednesday with flexibility to work remote on Thursday and Friday.
If you're known for your resourcefulness, adaptability, and can-do attitude, and bring a strong interest in public policy, politics, and current events, send us a cover letter with your application today. We look forward to hearing from you!
Responsibilities:
  • Works as part of the Public Affairs team to accomplish Association goals.
  • Support all internal team members and departments following the Association's mission and values while promoting Association culture.
  • Complete research as assigned.
  • Provide logistical support for the Public Affairs Department.
  • Respond to basic inquiries and requests for information from members and State Restaurant Associations.
  • Assist with the preparation of department newsletters.
  • Assist with legislative tracking.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
  • Recent college graduate, current undergrad, or a graduate-level student enrolled in an academic program related to Government Affairs, Public Policy, Political Science, Business, Communications, or a similar area of study.
  • Prior professional work experience ideally within Political Science or related area.
  • Fundamental government, political, and public policy knowledge.
  • Exceptional ability to work well under pressure and thrive within a fast-paced and fluid environment.
  • Project management skills and the ability to move multiple projects forward effectively.
  • Strong interpersonal skills: the ability to interact and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
  • Ability to maintain accurate data/information and confidentiality of work records.
  • Highly effective organizational, time-management, priority-setting, and problem-solving skills.
  • Highly developed communication skills, verbal and written.
  • Strong work ethic and a high degree of integrity
  • Ability to work as part of a team and to work independently; a self-initiator, versatile, and assumes risk with responsibility.
  • Proficiency across Microsoft Office products, including Word, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Excel, and comfortable learning new technology/platforms as needed.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The National Restaurant Association, National Restaurant Association Solutions, LLC, and The National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (together, "Company") is committed to equal employment opportunity, and it is Company's policy to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
It is our policy to recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job titles, and ensure that all other personnel actions are administered, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status and disability, or other legally protected status, and we will ensure that all employment decisions are based only on valid job requirements.
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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