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Public Policy Intern Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

TRACK OUT COUNSELOR- TEMP

Cary, NC · On-site

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

... the public verbally and in writing. * Ability to acquire knowledge of Town of Cary policies ... Temporary, Seasonal, and Intern Employees Cary employs temporary and seasonal employees and interns ...

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Public Policy Intern information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$8

$16

$23

How much do public policy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy intern in Raleigh, NC is $16.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $18.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Public Policy Intern, you need strong research, analytical, and written communication skills, typically supported by coursework in political science, public policy, or related fields. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy databases, and Microsoft Office Suite is commonly required. Initiative, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively help interns stand out in this role. These competencies are crucial for supporting policy development, crafting effective materials, and contributing meaningfully to team projects in a fast-paced policy environment.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a public policy intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a Public Policy Intern, you can expect to engage in a variety of tasks such as conducting research on legislative issues, drafting policy briefs and memos, monitoring relevant policy developments, and assisting with stakeholder outreach. Interns often support team members by analyzing data, preparing presentations, and attending meetings or hearings. This role typically involves close collaboration with policy analysts, advocacy professionals, and communications teams, providing a comprehensive view of the policy-making process. The experience offers valuable exposure to both the strategic and operational aspects of public policy work, making it an excellent foundation for future careers in government, non-profits, or consulting.

What does a public policy intern do?

A public policy intern assists with research, analysis, and development of policy proposals related to government or organizational priorities. They often support advocacy efforts, prepare reports, attend meetings, and gain experience in policy-making processes, typically working under the supervision of policy staff or government officials.

What jobs can I do with a public policy intern degree?

A public policy intern degree prepares individuals for roles such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, legislative assistant, or advocacy coordinator. These positions involve research, analysis, and communication related to public policies, often requiring skills in data interpretation, report writing, and stakeholder engagement.

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

AspectPublic Policy InternPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically pursuing or recent graduate in political science, public administration, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentInternship programs, often in government agencies, think tanks, or NGOsFull-time roles in government, research organizations, or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level position for gaining experience in public policyProfessional role involving policy research, analysis, and recommendations

Public Policy Interns typically are students or recent graduates gaining initial experience, while Policy Analysts are full-time professionals conducting in-depth policy research and analysis. Internships serve as a stepping stone to a career as a Policy Analyst, who holds more responsibility and requires more advanced credentials.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Public Policy jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Policy Intern jobs in Raleigh, NC? For Public Policy Intern jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Public Policy Intern jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Public Policy Intern job openings:
Infographic showing various Public Policy Intern job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,446 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Administrative Intern, Sanford School of Public Policy

Duke University

Durham, NC • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Internship

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 7 days ago


Duke University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 55 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

486th of 617 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 Bold.
The Duke Center for International Development (DCID) in the Sanford School of Public Policy seeks two administrative interns with strong data science skills to assist with a project tracking private climate investments in Southeast Asia.
What You'll Do:
  • The first administrative will help maintain a database related to climate investments in the region. It has been built through Large Language Models (LLM) by Duke MIDS students. Familiarity with advanced data sciences is a requirement.
  • The second administrative intern will collaborate with the first intern and Principal Investigator to create material that summarizes important research findings
  • The work can be conducted remotely. Bi-weekly meetings with the Research Manager will be conducted via Zoom. Strong time management and communication skills are critical. The project will pay the Sanford School rate for recent graduates ($20/hour). The time commitment is expected to be 20 hours per week.

Choose Duke.
  • Work with a leading policy research center within a top-tier university
  • Gain hands-on experience in applied research and policy analysis
  • Flexible, primarily remote work environment
  • Competitive hourly rate: $20.00/hour (Sanford School rate for recent graduates)
  • Part-time commitment: 20 hours per week
  • Build professional connections with experienced researchers and policy professionals

Ready to Make a Difference?
Apply now by sending your CV and a brief introductory cover letter. Join us in building a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.
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

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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