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Public Policy Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Braven

Head of Public Policy

Newark, NJ

$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

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 ...

Son

Medicaid Policy Internship (Fall 2026)

Lincoln, NE · On-site +1

$15/hr

JR2026-00028032 Medicaid Policy Internship (Fall 2026) (Evergreen) (Open) Applications No Longer ... This role is ideal for a student interested in public health, Medicaid, health and public policy ...

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Public Policy Internship information

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How much do public policy internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 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.

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 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 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:
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Public Policy Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Internship job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Internship, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,603 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Richard B. Kirchhoff Public Policy Internships at AFSP

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Washington, DC • On-site

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Location: Hybrid and Located in Washington, D.C.

Position Summary

The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) Public Policy Internship offers a hands-on opportunity to support the organization’s Policy & Advocacy Office in advancing its legislative priorities and strengthening its national advocacy presence. Interns contribute to efforts that connect federal and state initiatives focused on suicide prevention and improving mental health outcomes.

This paid internship includes a combination of short- and long-term projects, as well as ongoing assignments such as policy research, legislative tracking, and written analysis.

Internship terms are available during the fall and spring semesters, with the possibility of extending across both terms upon approval.

This position is currently in hybrid format and located in Washington, D.C.

Application Deadline: August 05, 2026


Position Duties and Responsibilities

    • Support the Policy & Advocacy team in advancing legislative and regulatory priorities related to suicide prevention and mental health.
    • Track and research federal and state legislation, regulations, and policy developments; prepare written memos and summaries.
    • Attend congressional hearings and produce detailed briefing reports for assigned committees.
    • Participate in and report on meetings, events, and coalitions with national partners.
    • Assist in the planning and execution of key advocacy initiatives, including: Advocacy Forum

    Advocacy Action Day events

    • Congressional briefings
    • Provide support on policy development, communications, and administrative tasks across federal, state, and local efforts.
    • Complete at least one substantive special project in collaboration with Policy & Advocacy Office staff.
    • Contribute to additional projects and assignments as needed.


Benefits

AFSP Public Policy Interns will:

  • Acquire practical work experience and training in legislative tracking, writing summaries for hearings, and more.
  • Learn about the legislative process, laws and policy affecting suicide prevention and mental health, and advocacy campaigns at grasstops and grassroots levels.
  • Develop knowledge and insights on key health policy issues, including challenges and opportunities related to reducing the rate of suicide and increasing access to mental healthcare at a system-wide level.
  • Receive a monthly stipend


Application Instructions

To apply, please submit a current resume, a 1–2-page writing sample, and the contact information for one or two references. Applicants will also complete several short application questions related to their interest in public policy, advocacy, and the Richard B. Kirchhoff Public Policy Internship.

Thank you for your interest in the Richard B. Kirchhoff Public Policy Internship. We look forward to learning more about your experiences, interests, and commitment to public policy and mental health advocacy.