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Public Policy Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CyrusOne

Senior Manager, Government Affairs & Public Policy

$121K - $148K/yr

The Senior Manager, Government Affairs & Public Policy will lead and execute regional public policy ... We will respond to requests for reasonable accommodations to assist you in applying for positions ...

Harvard University

Visitor in Public Policy

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$170K - $185K/yr

Position Details Title Visitor in Public Policy School Harvard Kennedy School Department/Area Position Description Harvard Kennedy School's mission is to improve public policy and leadership so ...

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$57

How much do public policy assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy assistant in the United States is $27.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.75 and $31.49 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Public Policy Assistant do?

A Public Policy Assistant supports policy analysts and managers in researching, developing, and advocating for public policies. Their tasks often include gathering data, preparing reports, monitoring legislative developments, and organizing meetings or events. They help ensure that policy proposals are well-researched and effectively communicated to stakeholders, including government officials and the public. This role is essential in organizations that aim to influence public policy, such as government agencies, nonprofits, or advocacy groups.

What is the difference between Public Policy Assistant vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPublic Policy AssistantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or economics
Work EnvironmentSupportive role within government agencies, think tanks, or NGOsResearch-focused, analyzing policy impacts for government or organizations
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment departments, advocacy groups, non-profitsGovernment agencies, research institutes, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level policy support rolesAnalyzing and developing policies based on research

While both roles involve working within the public policy sector, a Public Policy Assistant typically provides administrative and research support, whereas a Policy Analyst conducts in-depth analysis to develop or evaluate policies. The assistant role is often an entry point, with the analyst position requiring more specialized research skills and experience.

What are some common challenges faced by Public Policy Assistants when supporting policy research and analysis projects?

Public Policy Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing tight deadlines, synthesizing large volumes of complex information, and balancing multiple projects simultaneously. They may also need to quickly adapt to shifting policy priorities and coordinate effectively with both internal teams and external stakeholders. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and clear communication are essential to successfully navigate these demands and contribute meaningfully to policy research and analysis projects.

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

To thrive as a Public Policy Assistant, you need strong research, analytical, and writing skills, often supported by a degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software, legislative tracking tools, and proficiency in Microsoft Office are commonly required. Attention to detail, organizational abilities, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing multiple tasks and engaging with stakeholders. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate policy research, supporting advocacy efforts, and ensuring effective coordination within policy teams.
More about Public Policy Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Assistant 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 Public Policy Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Assistant jobs include:
Public Policy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,261 per year, or $27 per hour.
Senior Manager, Government Affairs & Public Policy

Senior Manager, Government Affairs & Public Policy

CyrusOne

Remote

$121K - $148K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

The Senior Manager, Government Affairs & Public Policy will lead and execute regional public policy strategies that enable the successful development, expansion, and operation of largescale data center infrastructure across multiple U.S. markets.
This role sits at the intersection of public policy, energy, real estate development, and economic development, serving as a critical partner to internal business teams and external stakeholders. The Senior Manager will shape legislative, regulatory, and facilitate community outcomes that support power availability, project delivery, sustainability goals, and long term operational certainty in a rapidly evolving digital infrastructure landscape driven by cloud and AI demand.
Responsibilities:
  • Develop and implement state and local public policy strategies that directly support site selection, project development, and ongoing operations across current and future data center markets.

  • Identify and manage policy risks and opportunities related to energy, utilities, land use, tax, sustainability, permitting, and infrastructure investment.

  • Anticipate emerging policy issues affecting hyperscale and AIdriven growth, including power availability, grid reliability, decarbonization, and infrastructure resilience.

  • Partner with internal energy and sustainability teams to align policy advocacy with clean energy and decarbonization strategies.

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with state and local elected officials, regulatory agencies, economic development organizations, and key government staff.

  • Support economic development and incentive strategies, including negotiations, compliance, and long term partnership management.

  • Represent the company in public hearings, legislative forums, and stakeholder meetings.

  • Work closely with real estate, development, construction, legal, tax, sustainability, operations, and communications teams to align policy strategy with business priorities.

  • Provide clear, actionable policy guidance to support market entry, site development, and operational decision making.

  • Translate complex policy and regulatory developments into concise executive briefings and recommendations.

  • Engage with industry associations, trade groups, and public/private coalitions to advance shared policy objectives.

  • Draft position papers, comment letters, testimony, and advocacy materials.

  • Support company leadership in external speaking engagements and industry forums.

  • Support community engagement strategies related to data center development, including local outreach and stakeholder education.

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience required.

  • 7-10+ years of hands-on experience in economic development, government relations, or state and local government.

  • Experience learning business needs and representing those interests before government officials.

  • Creative and critical thinking and the ability to understand complex issues and identify clear and effective action plans to resolve them is desired.

  • Beneficial to have experience working on policies related to energy, artificial intelligence, taxes, sustainability, and infrastructure development.

  • Strong written and verbal communication to internal and external audiences including senior government officials and company executives.

  • A standout colleague who enjoys working in a matrixed organization to drive forward business value creation is strongly preferred.

  • Experience in leading contract lobbyists and working as an internal lobbyist for a private company is strongly preferred.

  • Advanced political acumen and the ability to connect with collaborators from all backgrounds.

  • Must at ease balancing multiple priorities with shifting timelines and objectives.

  • Travel is anticipated. Travel includes visits to other CyrusOne offices, capital cities, regional meetings and hearings, etc. Travel may increase over time as the business evolves.

Preferred Experience:
  • Direct experience supporting data centers, hyperscale, AI infrastructure, or other large energy intensive developments.

  • Familiarity with economic development incentives, land use, zoning, and permitting.

  • Background in corporate public affairs, state and local government service, or relevant trade associations.

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CyrusOne is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, or other legally protected status.
CyrusOne provides reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and any other state or local laws. We will respond to requests for reasonable accommodations to assist you in applying for positions at CyrusOne, or to submit a resume.

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