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Public Policy Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NAACP LDF Unpaid

Intern, Policy

Manhattan, NY

$16.50 - $22/hr

... public service category. Short description: LDF is seeking policy interns for Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026 to support the policy team across all four LDF core issues: criminal justice, economic ...

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$114K - $139K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

New York, NY

$129K - $158K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Legal Defense Fund

Intern, Policy

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $22/hr

... public service category. Short description: LDF is seeking policy interns for Spring, Summer, and Fall 2026 to support the policy team across all four LDF core issues: criminal justice, economic ...

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Washington, DC

$134K - $164K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Chicago, IL · On-site

$122K - $149K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Atlanta, GA

$114K - $139K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Newark, NJ · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Newark, NJ · On-site

$123K - $151K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Chicago, IL

$122K - $149K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

New York, NY · On-site

$129K - $158K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$134K - $164K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$134K - $164K/yr

Head of Public Policy Team : External Affairs Location : In-person. Preferred locations: Washington ... policy internships * Grow and lead a coalition of organizations in the college-to-career space

Texas Public Policy Foundation

Internship Program

Austin, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Texas Public Policy Foundation provides young conservatives with the opportunity to work with the ... All of our interns leave our Foundation with a solid understanding of our work, and with tangible ...

Electric Power Engineers

DER Public Policy Intern

Austin, TX

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Our interns bridge theoretical classroom concepts and hands-on training to overcome real-world ... The Public Policy Intern - will support research and analysis at the intersection of public policy ...

Electric Power Engineers

DER Public Policy Intern

Austin, TX

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Our interns bridge theoretical classroom concepts and hands-on training to overcome real-world ... The Public Policy Intern - will support research and analysis at the intersection of public policy ...

New

Electric Power Engineers

DER Public Policy Intern

Austin, TX · On-site

$14.75 - $19.75/hr

Our interns bridge theoretical classroom concepts and hands-on training to overcome real-world ... The Public Policy Intern - will support research and analysis at the intersection of public policy ...

New

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Public Policy Internship information

See salary details

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How much do public policy internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy internship in the United States is $17.60, 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.

Is 22 too old for an internship?

Public policy internships are open to applicants of various ages, including 22-year-olds. Age is generally not a barrier, and internships often value skills, education, and interest in the field over age. Many interns are recent graduates or early-career professionals seeking experience in policy analysis, research, and advocacy.

How much do public policy interns make at Amazon?

Public policy interns at Amazon typically earn an hourly wage that ranges from $20 to $30, depending on experience and location. Internships usually last for 10 to 12 weeks and may include additional benefits such as stipends or housing assistance in some cases.

What is a Public Policy Internship?

A Public Policy Internship is a temporary position, often for students or recent graduates, that provides hands-on experience in policy research, analysis, and advocacy within government agencies, non-profits, think tanks, or private organizations. Interns typically work on tasks such as researching policy issues, drafting reports, attending legislative meetings, and assisting with outreach campaigns. These internships help individuals gain insights into the policymaking process and develop skills relevant to careers in public policy, government affairs, or political science. The experience also allows interns to build professional networks and better understand how policy decisions impact society.

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

To excel as a Public Policy Intern, strong research, analytical, and written communication skills are essential, often supported by coursework in political science, public administration, or related fields. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, legislative tracking systems, and proficiency in Microsoft Office or data visualization software is typically expected. Outstanding organization, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively help interns stand out. These skills are crucial for producing accurate policy recommendations, supporting legislative efforts, and contributing meaningfully to a team-driven environment.

What jobs can I do with a public policy degree?

A public policy degree prepares individuals for roles such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, legislative assistant, nonprofit program manager, or public relations coordinator. These jobs often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working in government agencies, advocacy organizations, or think tanks.

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

AspectPublic Policy InternshipPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsTypically students or recent graduates, some internships may require relevant courseworkBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentTemporary, entry-level, often in government agencies, think tanks, or NGOsFull-time, professional role in government, consulting firms, or advocacy organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by government agencies, nonprofits, and research institutions for training and talent pipelineEmployers seek policy analysts for research, policy development, and strategic planning

Public Policy Internships are entry-level, temporary positions aimed at gaining experience, often held by students or recent graduates. Policy Analysts are full-time professionals responsible for analyzing and developing policies. While internships focus on learning and support tasks, policy analysts lead research and decision-making processes.

What does a public policy intern do?

A public policy intern supports research, analysis, and development of policy proposals related to government or organizational goals. They often assist with drafting reports, attending meetings, and monitoring legislative activities, gaining experience in policy analysis and advocacy. The role typically requires strong communication skills and familiarity with policy research tools.

What types of projects and tasks can I expect to work on during a Public Policy Internship?

As a Public Policy Intern, you can expect to assist with policy research, draft memos and reports, attend legislative hearings or stakeholder meetings, and help monitor relevant policy developments. You may also contribute to advocacy campaigns, analyze proposed legislation, and support communications with government officials or partner organizations. The role typically involves collaborating closely with policy analysts, researchers, and advocacy teams, providing valuable exposure to the policymaking process and opportunities for professional growth.
More about Public Policy Internship jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Internship jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Internship 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 Internship jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Internship jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Policy Internship jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Policy Internship jobs are:
Public Policy Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Internship job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 5% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 85% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,603 per year, or $17.6 per hour.
Director, SSU Institute for Appalachian Public Policy

Director, SSU Institute for Appalachian Public Policy

Shawnee State University

Portsmouth, OH • On-site

$69K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Salary: $69,380.00 - $78,052.00 Annually
Location : 940 Second St. Portsmouth, OH 45662, OH
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: POS-755
Division: Executive Affairs
Opening Date: 11/21/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Description Summary
The Director, Institute for Appalachian Public Policy's mission and purpose is to develop, implement, and oversee a public policy research apparatus aimed at prioritizing research, data, and recommendations to advance Appalachian Ohio's socio-economic development and public health; develop and implement a public policy internship program for SSU students; and develop and coordinate IAPP Conferences/Symposiums.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
FUNCTIONS:
  1. Direct the Appalachian Ohio public policy research apparatus
  2. Coordinate IAPP Conferences/Symposiums
  3. Lead the Bears on the Square government and public policy internship program for SSU students
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Direct the Appalachian Ohio public policy research apparatus
    1. Conduct contract, and produce actionable research, utilizing visiting faculty, SSU students, and institute fellows
    2. Interface with policy makers, corporate and NGO leadership at the federal, state, and local level to develop and maintain a dynamic policy agenda involving education, economic workforce development, health care, and addiction/recovery, with future topics to be developed
    3. Deliver research to support SSU and the SSU grants operation, community and regional partners, and contribute to regional and national conversation on Appalachian Ohio topics
  1. IAPP Conferences/Symposiums
    1. Plan and execute all aspects of IAPP conferences/symposiums
    2. Follow up and analyze conferences/symposiums for continuous improvement
  1. Lead the Bears on the Square government and public policy internship program for SSU students
    1. Competitive application in spring to name 2-4 SSU Appalachian Public Policy Scholars
    2. Fall orientation and training program
    3. Spring advocacy visits with SSU leadership to regional, state, and federal government officials

Minimum Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  1. Ability to conduct actionable, peer-reviewed research and analyze and evaluate data
  2. Initiative and creativity in project development
  3. Strong project management skills
  4. Ability to establish and maintain meaningful relationships with university partners, scholars, thought leaders, and policy-makers at all levels

Minimum Qualifications
  1. MBA or Masters in Social Sciences required
  2. 5+ years' experience in government relations, state and Appalachian policy in the areas of higher education, college access, rural health care, and rural economic and workforce development issues
  3. Experience and research emphasis in Ohio and Appalachian Ohio is preferred

Shawnee State University offers a competitive starting salary (commensurate with overall qualifications) including an attractive benefits package. See Overview of Employee Benefits for more information. Some of our benefits include:
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Winter Break in December
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Tuition Waiver
  • Life Insurance
  • Retirement Plans

Apply