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Public Policy Attorney Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TekSky

Family Law Attorney

Manchester, NH · On-site

Devine Millimet attorneys have influenced New Hampshire law and public policy for generations. Our work over the years has involved a number of superlatives: some of the largest business transactions ...

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Public Policy Attorney information

See salary details

$32.5K

$76.4K

$114.5K

How much do public policy attorney jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy attorney in the United States is $76,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a public policy attorney?

A Public Policy Attorney is a legal professional who works on laws, regulations, and policies that impact the public interest. They often analyze legislation, draft policy documents, provide legal advice to government agencies or advocacy groups, and represent organizations in policy discussions. Their work helps shape public policy in areas like civil rights, healthcare, education, and the environment. Public Policy Attorneys may work for government agencies, non-profits, think tanks, or private organizations with a focus on influencing or interpreting public policy.

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

To thrive as a Public Policy Attorney, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and a deep understanding of legislative and regulatory processes. Familiarity with legal research databases, legislative tracking tools, and policy analysis software is typically required. Strong written and verbal communication, negotiation, and analytical thinking are crucial soft skills for influencing public policy and building consensus. These competencies enable attorneys to effectively advocate for clients, shape legislation, and navigate complex legal and governmental environments.

What are some common challenges faced by public policy attorneys when working with government agencies and stakeholders?

Public Policy Attorneys often navigate complex regulatory environments and must balance the interests of multiple stakeholders, including government officials, advocacy groups, and the public. One common challenge is interpreting and applying evolving laws and policies while addressing competing priorities and tight deadlines. Additionally, building consensus among diverse parties can require strong negotiation and communication skills. Successfully overcoming these challenges often involves staying informed about legislative changes and maintaining collaborative relationships across sectors.

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

AspectPublic Policy AttorneyPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsLaw degree, bar admissionBachelor's or master's in public policy, political science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, government agencies, advocacy groupsThink tanks, government agencies, research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageLegal and policy-focused organizationsResearch and policy development organizations

Public Policy Attorneys and Policy Analysts both work in the policy field, but attorneys focus on legal analysis, advocacy, and legal advice, often requiring a law degree and bar admission. Policy Analysts primarily conduct research, analyze data, and develop policy recommendations, usually with a background in public policy or related fields. Both roles are essential in shaping public policy but differ in their focus and qualifications.

What cities are hiring for Public Policy Attorney jobs?

Cities with the most Public Policy Attorney job openings:

What states have the most Public Policy Attorney jobs?

States with the most job openings for Public Policy Attorney jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Public Policy Attorney jobs?

For Public Policy Attorney jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Public Policy Attorney jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Attorney job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,359 per year, or $36.7 per hour.

Attorney, Public Law

Cortland, NY • On-site

Coughlin & Gerhart, LLP - Attorney Positions
See more jobs at Coughlin & Gerhart, LLP - Attorney Positionsexternal

$100K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • advise municipal and public-sector clients on legal matters including municipal law, education law, land use, zoning, code enforcement, and environmental review processes

  • draft and review legal documents such as local laws, resolutions, policies, procedures, contracts, leases, easements, intermunicipal agreements, and other legal documents

  • represent clients at municipal, school district, fire district, and other public board meetings, and conduct legal research related to public law matters

Job description

Description:

Location/Schedule:
Cortland, New York | Full-Time


Salary Description:
$100,000 - $140,000, commensurate with experience


Practice:
Public Law 


What Stands Out About This Opportunity:

Coughlin & Gerhart is one of the Southern Tier’s longest standing and most respected law firms, serving clients throughout New York and Pennsylvania since the 1890s. While we’ve grown to eight offices and a wide range of practice areas, we’ve remained grounded in the same philosophy that built the firm: strong client relationships, practical legal guidance and collaborative team culture.


This opportunity is ideal for an attorney looking to continue building Public Law experience within a firm that values professionalism, mentorship and long-term growth. Our attorneys work closely together across offices and practice groups, creating an environment where collaboration is encouraged. Attorneys have the opportunity to take on meaningful work from the beginning.


The Cortland office offers the ability to practice in a community focused environment while still having the resources and support of a larger firm. Attorneys in this role will have direct client interaction, courtroom exposure and the opportunity to handle a broad range of Public Law matters.


Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsibilities include advising municipal and public-sector clients on a broad range of legal matters, including municipal law, education law, land use and zoning, code enforcement, and environmental review processes. 


The attorney will draft and review local laws, resolutions, policies, procedures, contracts, leases, easements, intermunicipal agreements, and other legal documents; provide legal counsel to boards and public officials; and attend and represent clients at municipal, school district, fire district, and other public board meetings.


This role involves conducting legal research, defending municipalities and public entities in litigation and administrative proceedings, including Article 78 matters, negotiating and drafting agreements, prosecuting code enforcement actions, and developing practical legal strategies that support the operational and governance needs of public-sector clients. 


The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills, sound judgment, and the ability to build trusted relationships with municipal leaders, public officials, and community stakeholders.


This role also involves managing deadlines effectively and contributing to a collaborative team environment across practice groups and offices.


Core Requirements:

Candidates must possess a Juris Doctor degree from an accredited law school and be currently admitted to practice in New York State. Prior Public Law experience of at least three years is preferred.


We are seeking someone who is motivated to continue developing their legal skills while contributing positively to the client service standards of the firm.
 

Coughlin & Gerhart is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a professional and inclusive workplace. To express interest, please submit a cover letter, resume, and transcripts to Careers@cglawoffices.com.

Requirements:


Apply