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Public Policy Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

InnovateEDU

Policy Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$15/hr

InnovateEDU is seeking a Policy Intern who is hungry to learn, ready to work hard, and eager to ... Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program in public ...

Groundwork Collaborative

Policy Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$22/hr

We fight for progressive economic policy and narrative change that builds accountable public power ... The intern will gain hands-on experience with a dynamic policy, research, and advocacy team working ...

InnovateEDU

Policy Intern

Washington, DC · Remote

$15/hr

InnovateEDU is seeking a Policy Intern who is hungry to learn, ready to work hard, and eager to ... Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program in public ...

Grammy

Intern, Advocacy & Public Policy

Washington, DC

$17 - $22.75/hr

WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR The Recording Academy Advocacy & Public Policy team is seeking a "rock star ... Intern willrequirepersonallaptop. * Projects will include assisting with the Academy's grassroots ...

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Public Policy Intern information

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How much do public policy intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 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.

More about Public Policy Intern jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Intern jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Intern 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 Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Intern jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Policy Intern jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Policy Intern jobs are:
Public Policy Intern jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Intern 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 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,436 per year, or $17 per hour.

Policy Intern

InnovateEDU

Washington, DC • On-site

$15/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

InnovateEDU is seeking a Policy Intern who is hungry to learn, ready to work hard, and eager to dive into the deep end of our 2026/27 policy priorities. This isn't a role where you just file digital paperwork-this is an immersive experience where you will learn how to juggle multiple fast-moving tasks and navigate the inherent ambiguity of legislative work.
Most importantly, you will learn that true policy success relies just as much on people, relationships, and trust as it does on brilliant ideas. In this role, you will work directly alongside our CEO, Erin Mote, who believes deeply that forging uncommon alliances and working across differences are what truly move the needle. If you want to learn how to drive real systemic change while building cross-sector coalitions around education data, workforce readiness, and responsible AI, this is the place for you.
About InnovateEDU
InnovateEDU catalyzes education transformation by bridging gaps in data, policy, practice, and research. We exist to center the needs of the field in accelerating innovation toward an equitable, inclusive, and radically different future for all learners.
What You'll Do (Responsibilities)
You will be deeply involved in the day-to-day momentum of our policy team:
  • Research & Intelligence: Conduct policy scans of federal and state legislative activity related to education data, AI, and workforce development. Track relevant rulemakings and high-stakes grant opportunities.
  • High-Impact Writing: Support the development of policy briefs, memos, and actionable recommendations. Assist in drafting critical responses to Requests for Information (RFIs), federal consultations, and public comments.
  • Strategic Analysis: Have a seat at the table. Attend and summarize relevant webinars, hearings, and coalition meetings. Analyze proposed laws and regulations pertaining to ed-tech, data security, and research.
  • Coalition Building & Project Management: Support our stakeholder engagement efforts. Collaborate with staff across programs to align broad policy goals with on-the-ground implementation.

Who You Are
You are a mission-driven individual who believes in rolling up your sleeves to catalyze education transformation.
  • You thrive in the gray areas: You aren't afraid of ambiguity, you love asking questions, and you enjoy the puzzle of managing multiple fast-paced workstreams.
  • You are a sponge: You are excited to learn, absorb information quickly, and take the lead on tasks once you find your footing.
  • You are curious: You ask questions, not ones Google can answer but ones that help you understand strategy and what's next.
  • You are resilient and responsive: You like a fast pace, communicate highly effectively, and can work just as well independently as you can collaboratively.
  • You want to grow: You are open to feedback, especially when it's direct, bring your best every day, and want to learn from a team that shares your vision for mission-driven work at the intersection of education and policy.

Skills and Experience
  • Currently enrolled in or recently graduated from an undergraduate or graduate program in public policy, education, political science, or a related field.
  • Strong attention to detail and excellent organizational skills.
  • Demonstrated ability to meet strict deadlines and manage time effectively.
  • Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency in tools such as Google Workspace, Gemini for Enterprise, Microsoft Office, Zoom, and Asana.
  • Preferred but not required: Prior experience with policy, advocacy, or education organizations.
  • A highly proactive attitude and a genuine willingness to learn.

What You Will Learn (Learning Objectives)
We are deeply invested in your growth. Upon completion of this internship, you will have:
  • Gained hands-on experience drafting and submitting federal policy responses (e.g., RFIs, proposals, public comments).
  • Developed sharp skills in analyzing complex legislative text, executive orders, and regulatory guidance.
  • Learned how to build and manage AI-enabled policy tools (e.g., custom GPTs for policy analysis).
  • Strengthened your ability to track and synthesize complex federal and state policy activity into actionable, strategic insights.
  • Experienced what it takes to work within coalitions and cross-sector partnerships focused on advancing responsible AI, broadband connectivity, data privacy, and career pathways.
  • Practiced balancing independent drive with collaborative teamwork in a professional, high-impact nonprofit environment.

The Details
  • Schedule: This is a remote position with an expected schedule of approximately 16 hours per week.
  • Flexibility: You will develop a set schedule at the beginning of the internship. The duration is typically one semester, with the potential for extension or even full-time work.
  • Academic Credit & Support: We are happy to support responsibilities and expectations for course credit supervision so the internship may be used for a practicum or capstone. Upon request, letters of recommendation will be enthusiastically written for those who demonstrate dedication and contribute successfully to the team.

This position is open only to candidates in the United States, and InnovateEDU will not sponsor H-1 B visas due to the nature of the position.
Application Instructions
Please upload your resume and answer the required questions. Applications will be accepted, reviewed, and interviewed on a rolling basis for 10 days from the job posting date. To ensure you receive communications, please mark BambooHR as a safe sender.
Applications will be accepted and reviewed for the next 10 days from posting.

Apply