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Public Policy Internship 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 ... Internship Requirements The following requirements must be met by the interns: * Be at least a 2nd ...

Acs

Community Engagement Grant Intern

Anaheim, CA

$18/hr

They will support public policy events and activities. Some of the Intern activities may include ... Internship Requirements The following requirements must be met by the interns: * Be at least a 2nd ...

CITY VENTURES

Land Acquisition Intern

Irvine, CA · On-site +1

$19 - $20/hr

... public policy, or a related field preferred or in progress * Interest in residential real estate ... The internship schedule and duration will be determined based on business needs and candidate ...

Circlepoint

Assistant Planner

Orange, CA · On-site

$63K - $82K/yr

Experience or coursework in urban planning, environmental studies, public policy, geography, or a ... internships or entry-level experience in consulting or public-sector work is beneficial. Salary ...

City of Rialto

High School Intern/Intern

Rialto, CA · On-site

$20.68 - $22.80/hr

Interns may be exposed to City Administration, Finance, Human Resources, Public Safety (Police and ... Policy. E-Verify: The City of Rialto is an E-Verify employer. E-Verify is an internet based system ...

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

Public Policy Internship information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$10

$18

$28

How much do public policy internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy internship in Riverside, CA is $18.36, 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 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 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 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 jobs can I get with a public policy internship?

A public policy internship can lead to jobs such as policy analyst, government affairs coordinator, legislative assistant, advocacy coordinator, or research associate. These roles often require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve working for government agencies, non-profit organizations, think tanks, or lobbying firms.

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

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

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

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

Public Policy Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Internship job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Internship, and 54% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,187 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Internship

Council on American-Islamic Relations

Anaheim, CA • On-site

$15.75 - $21/hr

Internship

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Assist with implementing CAIR-LA's youth programming focused on identity, civil rights, civic engagement, and social justice.

  • Support the building of infrastructure, data collection, research, and system development for grants and special projects.

  • Help attorneys and staff provide legal assistance related to immigration status, benefits, citizenship, and family petitions.

Job description

As a civil rights advocacy non-profit, Council of American Relations - Los Angeles (CAIR-LA) is tasked with striving to protect and uphold our Constitutional rights. Though the size of our task is large, our resources are not. Because of this, we train numerous volunteers and interns to help make our goals a reality. If you are interested in helping out with CAIR-LA, we would more than welcome your participation and support.

INTERNSHIPS

The internship program's objective is to further CAIR-LA's mission to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, promote and protect civil liberties, and empower American Muslims to build coalitions that ensure justice.

The internship program provides a means to complement academic work with practical vocational experience through professional development and department support that identifies skills, develops leadership, and addresses critical community needs. The goal of the program is to empower the interns in hopes of furthering their career goals.

Qualifications

  • Candidates must be third-year or higher university students pursuing a bachelor's degree or advanced degree. Exceptions may be made for highly qualified applicants.
  • Enthusiasm, interest, and familiarity with CAIR-LA's work.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and internet research.
  • Ability to convey information in a professional and diplomatic manner
  • Ability to work with people from diverse backgrounds.
  • Good organizational skills and attention to detail are crucial.

Interns will receive basic training in all aspects of CAIR's work but will be assigned a focus project in one of the following areas:

Youth Empowerment: Interns assist with implementing CAIR's youth programming with a focus on the issues of identity, civil rights, civic engagement, and social justice.

Special Projects/Grants: The Special Projects/Grants internship delivers our objective-based programming
and services by leading the building of infrastructure, data collection and storage, research, and creating
sustainable systems and processes for the various grants CAIR-LA leverages to support and provide
services to the community.

Immigrants Rights Center (IRC): Interns assist attorneys and staff in providing legal assistance to our clients to help
them obtain immigration status or benefits, become a US citizen, or petition for relatives.

Operations/Nonprofit Administration: Interns assist with daily operations such as coordination of staff
meetings, trainings, and activities; greeting guests and interacting with patrons; and assisting with office
organization projects.

Community Organizing: Interns will focus on coalition building and community organizing aimed at challenging Islamophobia and violence in the Greater Los Angeles Area.

Civil Rights: Interns will spend time working with community members, documenting, and conducting research to assist with the resolution of cases.

Development: Interns will assist in researching methods for donor growth and stewardship.

Policy & Advocacy: The Policy & Advocacy internship provides students with an opportunity to learn about the legislative process as well as the intersection of public policy and grassroots advocacy.

Outreach: Responsibilities include organizing events sponsored by CAIR and assisting with inquiries by
members and guests.

Media Relations: Intern will assist with media requests, keep track of positive and negative coverage of Islam and Muslims in local media, and publish op-eds and press releases.

Graphic and Web Design: Responsibilities include the development and maintenance of the CAIR-CA website. Intern will create designs, concepts, and layouts for the publication of advertisements and other printed and graphic materials.

Please submit your resume, cover letter, sample essay, work/class schedule and references

Application: CAIR-LA Internship Application

If you have any questions regarding the Internship Program or our volunteering opportunities, you can contact the CAIR-LA Associate Youth Programs Manager, Qoodseya Afredi, at QAfredi@cair.com.

NOTE: Due to the number of applications received, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Apply