Policy Intern Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an era of ever-evolving public issues, the focus on policy interns has become paramount.

As society progresses, so does the demand for bright minds who can analyze, develop, and advance our policy framework.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a policy intern?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the dynamics of policy development,

You’re at the right spot.

Today, we present a customizable policy intern job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive in without further ado.

Policy Intern Duties and Responsibilities

Policy Interns help conduct research, analyze data, and prepare policy reports under the guidance of policy analysts or other senior staff members.

They may work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private companies.

Their duties and responsibilities may include:

• Assist in the research and analysis of public policy issues
• Compile data and statistics from various sources for policy and project analysis
• Draft policy briefs, memos, and reports under the supervision of senior staff
• Attend meetings, workshops, and conferences to understand policy discussions and developments
• Assist in the preparation of presentations and briefing materials
• Maintain updated knowledge of current events and policy changes relevant to the organization’s mission
• Participate in team meetings, providing input and suggestions for policy development and implementation
• Support administrative tasks, such as scheduling, note taking, and document management

 

Policy Intern Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Policy Intern to assist our team with research, analysis, and formulation of policies.

The role will involve tracking policy updates, conducting background research, and drafting policy summaries and briefs.

The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in public policy, excellent research skills, and the ability to communicate complex policy issues clearly.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist in researching, analyzing, and tracking relevant policy issues
• Write policy summaries and briefs
• Attend policy meetings and briefings
• Assist in organizing events and roundtable discussions
• Provide administrative support as needed
• Collaborate with team members to develop policy proposals

 

Qualifications

• Current enrollment in a related Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
• Strong interest in public policy, government, or related fields
• Excellent research and analytical skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

 

Benefits

• Real-world experience in policy research and analysis
• Opportunity to attend policy meetings and events
• Professional development opportunities
• Networking opportunities within the field

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Policy Intern
• Work Environment: Office setting with potential for remote work. Some local travel may be required for meetings or events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Policy Manager or Policy Analyst.
• Stipend: A stipend may be provided based on company policy and intern’s qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Internship (part-time/full-time)
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your interest in policy work, and a writing sample to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Policy Intern Do?

Policy Interns are typically students or recent graduates who work within government departments, non-profit organizations, or corporations to gain practical experience in the field of policy development and analysis.

They assist in researching, analyzing, and interpreting policy issues, trends, and regulations.

This may involve reviewing existing policies, studying the potential effects of new policies, and summarizing their findings in reports.

Policy Interns often work closely with policy analysts, advisors, and other stakeholders in drafting policy proposals or amendments.

They may also be tasked with reviewing and summarizing policy-related literature and legislation.

They may assist in organizing and coordinating meetings, workshops, and other events, often being responsible for preparing relevant materials and presentations.

Policy Interns often play a crucial role in liaising with external stakeholders, such as government departments, think tanks, or research institutions, to gather data or share findings.

Depending on the organization’s focus, a policy intern may specialize in areas such as education, health, environment, or economic policies.

In addition to these tasks, the role often involves administrative duties, such as maintaining databases, handling correspondence, and other office-related tasks.

Overall, the role of a Policy Intern is to assist in the development and implementation of policy initiatives, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the policy-making process.

 

Policy Intern Qualifications and Skills

A policy intern should possess a set of skills and qualifications that align with the intricacies of their role, these include:

• Strong research skills to gather and analyze data related to policy matters.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively express policy concepts and proposals.
• Understanding of policy-making process, governance, and political science.
• Good organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities effectively and efficiently.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team, showcasing strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex information and present it in a clear and concise manner.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Word, PowerPoint, and Excel for documentation and presentation of policy-related information.
• Problem-solving skills to address policy-related issues and propose effective solutions.

 

Policy Intern Experience Requirements

A Policy Intern should have an academic background in political science, international relations, law, economics, or related fields.

In terms of experience, they usually have little to no formal work experience.

However, internships in policy research, government relations, or relevant fields would be beneficial.

Experience in analytical roles, such as research assistant or academic researcher, would be a plus.

Any experience with quantitative and qualitative research methods, policy analysis, or legislation drafting are also highly valued.

Policy Interns are typically expected to have experience in working with policy-related databases, computer software, and the internet for research purposes.

Experience in writing academic or policy papers, reports, briefings, and presentations will be advantageous.

For those aiming at roles in specific policy areas, relevant experience, coursework or project work relating to these areas would be beneficial.

This could include, for example, experience related to environmental policy, health policy, foreign policy or economic policy.

In addition to formal education or work experience, successful Policy Interns often have experience in problem-solving, communication, teamwork, and time management from their academic life, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities.

 

Policy Intern Education and Training Requirements

Policy Interns usually have a bachelor’s degree in progress or completed in public policy, political science, economics, law or a related field.

They should have a solid understanding of the policy-making process and principles of government.

Knowledge of statistical analysis and data interpretation is often beneficial, along with strong writing and communication skills for drafting policy briefs and reports.

Some positions may require experience or coursework in a specific policy area such as health, education, environment, or international relations.

Knowledge in using policy analysis tools and software may also be beneficial.

Internships or volunteer work in related fields can provide practical experience and enhance a candidate’s application.

A postgraduate degree in public policy or related field may be preferred for some advanced or specialized policy intern positions.

Commitment to public service, ability to work in a team, and strong analytical skills are also generally required.

It’s also recommended for policy interns to continually update their knowledge about current affairs, government regulations, and public policy trends.

 

Policy Intern Salary Expectations

A Policy Intern can expect to earn an average wage of $15.00 (USD) per hour.

The actual earnings may vary based on the nature of the organization, location, and the level of experience or education of the intern.

 

Policy Intern Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Policy Intern need?

Policy Interns need strong research skills to gather, analyze and interpret data related to policy issues.

They also need excellent written and verbal communication skills to present findings, and discuss policy issues and potential solutions.

An understanding of government structures, policy-making processes, and a keen interest in current affairs are also important.

 

Do Policy Interns need a degree?

While not always required, most Policy Internships prefer candidates who are pursuing or have completed a degree in Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, or a related field.

Some might consider candidates with degrees in other fields, as long as they have relevant coursework or experience in policy-making or government relations.

 

What should you look for in a Policy Intern resume?

Look for coursework or experience in policy analysis, public administration, or government relations.

Internship or volunteer experience with government agencies, non-profit organizations, or political campaigns can also be beneficial.

Skills in research, data analysis, and writing should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Policy Intern?

A good Policy Intern is curious, proactive, and detail-oriented.

They are able to conduct thorough research and analyze data to understand complex policy issues.

They are also able to communicate their findings clearly and effectively.

A good Policy Intern is also able to handle multiple tasks and deadlines, and is comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

 

Is it difficult to hire Policy Interns?

Hiring Policy Interns can be challenging, as the role requires a unique blend of skills, including research, analysis, writing, and understanding of government and policy-making.

Therefore, it’s important to have a comprehensive recruitment process that assesses both the candidate’s academic credentials and their practical skills.

Offering a supportive and educational work environment can also help attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into what it truly means to be a policy intern.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about conducting research.

It’s about shaping the direction of society, one policy recommendation at a time.

Equipped with our comprehensive policy intern job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why not go further?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting pinpoint-accurate listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every policy recommendation contributes to the larger narrative.

Let’s influence that future. Together.