Remote Public Policy Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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 isnt a role where you just file digital paperworkthis 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 Youll 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 InnovateEDUwill 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.