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Public Policy Intern Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Acs

Community Engagement Grant Intern

Irvine, CA · On-site

$18/hr

They will support public policy events and activities. Some of the Intern activities may include the following: Data collection: * Identify and attend community events to administer Public Intercept ...

Acs

Community Engagement Grant Intern

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$18/hr

They will support public policy events and activities. Some of the Intern activities may include the following: Data collection: * Identify and attend community events to administer Public Intercept ...

CITY VENTURES

Land Acquisition Intern

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$19 - $20/hr

The intern will gain practical experience in how acquisition opportunities are sourced, evaluated ... public policy, or a related field preferred or in progress * Interest in residential real estate ...

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All JobsPublic Policy Intern JobsPublic Policy Intern Jobs in Riverside, CA

Public Policy Intern information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$9

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How much do public policy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy intern in Riverside, CA is $17.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.05 and $20.05 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 managers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Public Policy jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Policy Intern jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Public Policy Intern jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Policy Intern jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Policy Intern jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Public Policy Intern jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Public Policy Intern job openings:

Public Policy Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Intern job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,969 per year, or $17.8 per hour.

Community Engagement Grant Intern

Irvine, CA • On-site

New Jersey Institute of Technology
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about New Jersey Institute of Technologyexternal

$18/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) is the nation's leading cancer advocacy organization. Together with our charitable partner, the American Cancer Society, we work in Congress, state legislatures and local jurisdictions to support evidence-based policy and legislative solutions designed to eliminate cancer as a major health problem.
The intern will assist the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), California Tobacco Control Grant Project, with local policy efforts, events and outreach. The intern will use community health promotion and education skills to outreach and build community support for tobacco control and other cancer related policies in local municipalities. They will support strategies for tobacco control through grassroots organizing, earned media, and community outreach. They will support public policy events and activities.
Some of the Intern activities may include the following:
Data collection:

  • Identify and attend community events to administer Public Intercept Surveys, stakeholder interviews, and observation data collection.
  • Collect petitions from supporters.
  • Track outreach events and outcomes.
Directory development:
  • Conduct research on tobacco-related policies, policy makers, city council agenda, and monitor media outlets for related news.
Community outreach and education:
  • Attend local coalition meetings.
  • Compile educational materials to support the policy issue and co-facilitate educational workshops.
  • Assist with development and editing of presentation materials, and educational fact sheets.
Community advocacy:
  • Join the ACS CAN team and volunteer to meet with decision makers and stakeholders to educate them about the benefits of the policy and secure support for the issue.
  • Attend city council meetings and provide education on issues related to the project (e.g., tobacco retail licenses) to generate support for local policies.
Internship Requirements
The following requirements must be met by the interns:
  • Be at least a 2nd year student at a college;
  • Intern at least fifteen (15) hours a week;
  • This is a virtual internship, however, the student must be able to drive or carpool to community events for outreach; have reliable transportation
  • Have a minimum of a B average (cumulative 3.0 on 4.0 scale);
  • Plan to continue their education in the following term/semester;
    • Note: an internship assignment may coincide with the student's last term/trimester, the student must disengage upon graduation.

The hourly rate is $18/hour. The final candidate's relevant experience/skills will be considered before an offer is extended. Actual starting pay will vary based on non-discriminatory factors including, but not limited to, geographic location, experience, skills, specialty, and education.
ACS CAN provides staff a generous paid time off policy; medical, dental, retirement benefits, wellness programs, and professional development programs to enhance staff skills. Further details on our benefits can be found on our careers site at: jobs.cancer.org/benefits. We are a proud equal opportunity employer.

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