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

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Public Policy Internship information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$9

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$26

How much do public policy internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy internship in Raleigh, NC is $17.11, 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 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.

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 Internship jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Public Policy Internship jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Policy Internship jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Policy Internship jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Public Policy Internship jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Public Policy Internship job openings:

Public Policy Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Internship job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,579 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

City Council Policy Internship

City of Durham, NC

Durham, NC • On-site

$43K - $47K/yr

Full-time, Internship

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Salary : $43,680.00 - $47,736.00 Annually
Location : 101 City Hall Plaza, Durham, NC
Job Type: Internship w/o benefits (Less than 1000 hours)
Job Number: 26-06051
Department: City Clerk
Opening Date: 08/03/2026
Closing Date: 8/17/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Position Description
Work, Serve, Thrive. With the City of Durham
Advance in your career while making a real difference in the community you serve.
Hourly Rate of Pay: Hourly rate is based on the college level they are currently in 1st year (Freshman) $21.00 - 2nd year (Sophomore) $21.63 - 3rd year (Junior) $22.28 - 4th year (Senior) or Graduate Student $22.95
Work Days/Hours: 10 hours per week, Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
(Some Nights and Weekends)
The City Council Internship Program is designed to introduce undergraduate or graduate students to potential careers in local government policy making. The selected candidate will work within the City Council's Office on a variety of special projects and research assignments with City Council Members.
Duties/Responsibilities
  • Collect data, research proposed and pending policy issues
  • Prepare for and attend key committee, board, and council meetings
  • Address constituent questions and issues
  • Communications, including email, social media, mass media communications
  • Draft and edit resolutions and policy memoranda
  • Facilitate dialogue with other elected officials, city staff, other governmental jurisdictions and community partners

Knowledge and Skills
  • Interest in local government issues, including but not limited to carbon emissions reductions, climate resilience, planning, zoning, housing, transportation, parks and recreation, and other related urban issues;
  • Experience or interest in learning communicating through social media, branding, layout and design, Microsoft products, Adobe products, ArcGIS;
  • Strong writer;
  • Working knowledge of city systems and agencies to support resident needs and well-being;
  • Knowledge of the Durham community;
  • Experience working with low-wealth communities.

Special Abilities
  • Ability to build and maintain relationships with individuals and groups from varied cultural and socio-economic backgrounds;
  • Ability to be patient, flexible, and well organized, as well as dedicated to resident and community goals;
  • Ability to work evening and weekend hours.

Minimum Qualifications & Experience
  • Candidate must be currently enrolled in a graduate or undergraduate program.
  • Candidate must demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills.

Additional Preferred Skills
  • Knowledge of the Durham community

01
Where did you first hear about this opportunity?
  • City of Durham Website
  • Walk in
  • Job fair
  • Employee referral
  • Professional organization ***Please list the organization in "other" box below***
  • Internet posting ***Please list the specific web site in the "other" box below***
  • Craig's List
  • Facebook
  • LinkedIn
  • GlassDoor
  • governmentjobs.com
  • Monster.com
  • Indeed.com
  • Employment Security Commission
  • Magazine/Newspaper
  • Other

02
If you listed "other" above please give specific web site, organization, or publication.
03
Please indicate your current academic year:If in-between years, please choose the year UP.
  • Not a current undergraduate or graduate student
  • Current Freshman (first year)
  • Current Sophomore (second year)
  • Current Junior (third year)
  • Current Senior (fourth year)
  • Current Graduate Student

04
Are you currently enrolled in an accredited educational program such as City Planning, Public Administration, Public Policy, or related degree program?
  • Yes
  • No

05
If you are "NOT" currently enrolled in an accredited educational program what related degree program are you enrolled in? If your degree is not related, indicate N/A.
06
Have you conducted research about local government issues?
  • Yes
  • No

07
Please briefly describe a project where you conducted research about local government issues?
08
How would you rate your communication skills - both orally (speech) and in writing (correct grammar/punctuation).
  • Poor
  • Good
  • Very Good
  • Excellent

09
Will you be able to work Monday - Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. and/or some nights and weekends?
  • Yes
  • No

10
Briefly share your knowledge of the Durham community. If you have no knowledge, indicate N/A.
11
How would you rate your experience level with MS Office applications such as Outlook, Word, and PowerPoint?
  • No experience
  • Beginner level
  • Intermediate level
  • Advanced level
  • Expert level

12
How would you rate your experience level with GIS?
  • No Experience
  • Beginner Level
  • Intermediate Level
  • Advanced Level
  • Expert Level

Required Question

Apply