Find & Apply For Social Science Researcher Jobs in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

THE POSITION

Are you an undergraduate or graduate-level student interested in research and state government? If you are looking for an opportunity to gain hands-on research experience, Pennsylvania's Office of the Governor has the perfect opportunity for you! The Office of the Governor's Research Department is excited to welcome a motivated Research Intern for the upcoming 2026 Summer session. The internship is expected to run late August 2026 to December 2026. You will learn valuable skills while working with teams that share the Governor's work across the Commonwealth. Build your future by conducting meaningful research within state government!

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

This internship supports the Governor's Office by researching accomplishments, tracking legislation, and gathering information for communications. You will work closely with staff to summarize key progress and respond to research needs across departments. As a Research Intern, you will perform the following duties:

Accomplishment Tracking:

Compile information on the Governor's major achievements and priorities

Press Research:

Gather press coverage related to key agenda items

Validator Review:

Research backgrounds of individuals who may participate in events or public messaging

Team Support:

Assist staff by responding to research requests from multiple departments

Data Monitoring:

Track performance indicators that show progress on important goals

Legislation Tracking:

Follow and summarize significant bills as they move through the legislative process

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

Intern is expected to work 20 hours per week. Scheduling will be flexible within the 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM work hours. Internship runs late August 2026 to December 2026.

Telework:

You may have the option to work in-person or hybrid depending on the needs of both the intern and the office. In-person reporting is required at least one day per week. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.

Salary:

The starting salary is non-negotiable. You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS

Internship Requirements:

Current enrollment in a undergraduate or graduate degree program (Graduates from Summer of 2026 may also be considered for this program.) Good academic standing (2.5 GPA or higher). Pennsylvania residency or enrollment at a Pennsylvania college or university.

Additional Requirements:

You must be passionate about state government, research, and public service. You must be detail-oriented with a curiosity and desire to learn. You must have strong written and oral communication skills. You must be able to perform essential job functions. Preferred Qualifications (not required): Studying or have graduated with a degree in Political Science, History, Economics, Journalism, Pre-Law, or a similar major or degree program that is research heavy. Prior relevant work or internship experience, including but not limited to experience in state, local, or federal government agencies, campaigns, journalism, public advocacy, or policy research. How to

Apply:

Your application must include a resume . If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date . Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted. Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position. All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans:

Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans. Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS): 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals). If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date. The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply. Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this short video! See the total value of your benefits package by exploring our benefits calculator. Health & Wellness We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.• Compensation & Financial Planning We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options. Work/Life Balance We know there's more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.• Values and Culture We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving. Employee Perks Sometimes, it is the little "extras" that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships. For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visit www.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box. Eligibility rules apply.