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Education Policy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Manager

Blacksburg, VA

$94K - $102K/yr

Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, higher education, or a related field. Demonstrated experience in policy research, writing, development ...

... policy organization that works collaboratively with policymakers, communities, and other key ... To eliminate racial and economic disparities in Connecticut education funding. Our Vision: All ...

Education Reporter Help cover the vast education landscape in San Antonio with an eye for how state policy shapes the day-to-day experiences of students and educators. The San Antonio Express-News ...

Education Reporter Help cover the vast education landscape in San Antonio with an eye for how state policy shapes the day-to-day experiences of students and educators. The San Antonio Express-News ...

Education Reporter Help cover the vast education landscape in San Antonio with an eye for how state policy shapes the day-to-day experiences of students and educators. The San Antonio Express-News ...

Education Reporter Help cover the vast education landscape in San Antonio with an eye for how state policy shapes the day-to-day experiences of students and educators. The San Antonio Express-News ...

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Education Policy information

See salary details

$69.5K

$124.8K

$171.5K

How much do education policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for education policy in the United States is $124,832.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $99,000.00 and $151,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Education Policy, and why are they important?

To thrive in Education Policy, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of educational systems, and typically a background in public policy, education, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy research platforms, and sometimes certifications like a Master's in Public Policy (MPP) are valuable. Excellent communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills set professionals apart when building consensus and advocating for change. These skills are essential for effectively shaping policy decisions that impact educational outcomes and ensuring policies are both evidence-based and equitable.

What is education policy?

Education policy refers to the collection of laws, regulations, and government decisions that shape the education system at local, state, or national levels. It covers issues such as curriculum standards, funding, teacher qualifications, student assessments, and school accountability. Education policy professionals analyze, develop, and advocate for policies aimed at improving educational outcomes and equity. Their work can influence everything from classroom practices to the overall structure of the educational system.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in education policy roles?

Professionals in education policy often encounter challenges such as balancing the interests of multiple stakeholders, including government agencies, educators, parents, and students. They must also stay updated with ever-evolving legislation and educational trends, which requires continuous research and adaptability. Navigating bureaucratic processes, advocating for evidence-based reforms, and effectively communicating complex policy recommendations are daily aspects of the role. Collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and managing tight deadlines are also common, making strong organizational and interpersonal skills essential.

What is the difference between Education Policy vs Education Research?

AspectEducation PolicyEducation Research
Required CredentialsMaster's or higher in Education Policy, Public Policy, or related fieldsMaster's or PhD in Education, Social Sciences, or related disciplines
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, advocacy groupsUniversities, research institutions, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy formulation, legislative analysis, program developmentData analysis, study design, evidence generation

Education Policy focuses on developing and analyzing policies to improve education systems, often working within government or advocacy groups. Education Research involves conducting studies to generate evidence and insights about educational practices and outcomes, typically within academic or research institutions. While both roles aim to improve education, Policy emphasizes implementation and advocacy, whereas Research centers on evidence and data analysis.

More about Education Policy jobs
What cities are hiring for Education Policy jobs? Cities with the most Education Policy job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Education Policy jobs? The most popular types of Education Policy jobs are:
What states have the most Education Policy jobs? States with the most job openings for Education Policy jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Education Policy jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Education Policy jobs are:
Infographic showing various Education Policy job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 64% Full Time, 32% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $124,832 per year, or $60 per hour.
Education Policy Intern, (Fall 2026)

Education Policy Intern, (Fall 2026)

National Education Association (NEA)

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

If you would enjoy working in a dynamic environment and are looking for an opportunity to become part of a stellar team of professionals, we invite you to apply online today.
Posting Period:
May 15, 2026 - Until Filled
Employee Type:
OO119 Education Policy & Implementation Center (EPIC), SHORTTERM Short-term Temps
Position Type:
Intern (Fixed Term)
Position Details:
NEA is accepting applications for individuals interested in participating in the NEA Internship Program in the Education Policy & Practice Department for the Fall 2026 session, which will begin September 14, 2026 and end on or before December 9, 2026. The internships may range from six weeks to a full semester. Interns will receive a stipend of twenty dollars ($20) per hour and may intern up to a maximum of twenty (20) hours a week. The internship is located at the NEA headquarters building in Washington, DC.
The NEA Internship Program provides interns with training, learning opportunities, educational activities and exposure to a variety of rich and substantive programmatic experiences that support quality public education. These experiences may include conducting research; data analysis; writing, editing, using Internet applications and social media; participating in and assisting with partnership events, meetings and policy forums; visits to Capitol Hill; and other appropriate program-related activities.
General Internships: Position Summary
The NEA partners with institutions of higher education, intern programs and other organizations to identify interns - generally juniors, seniors, recent college graduates (up to 18 months) or graduate students - who are interested in public education policy and education issues. Students pursuing degrees in Education, Political Science, Government, Human Resources, Public Policy, Social Sciences, Business, Finance, Economics, Management, Communications, Computer Science, Journalism, Mass Media, Graphic Design, Digital Communications and other disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Position Emphasis: This position supports NEA's strategic objective to focus the energy and resources of its 3 million members toward the promotion of public education by participating in internship opportunities and assignments in the NEA Education Policy & Implementation Center, as part of our Education Policy & Practice Department. The focus of the internship will be on education policy and implementation, with a particular focus around issues of equity in policy development and implementation. Priority issues may include honesty in education, assessment, climate and environmental justice, and artificial intelligence.
Proposed Intern Activities: NEA interns will have the opportunity to work collaboratively with NEA staff and participate in a variety of meaningful learning experiences, projects and opportunities during the internship. In addition to participating in assigned Center/department activities, based on their skills and interests, interns will also have opportunities to participate in relevant NEA sponsored and/or approved group activities that may occur at NEA or in the Washington Metropolitan area. The group activities may include participation in interviews with the NEA President and Executive Director, and organizational leadership and staff, observing NEA events such as Representative Assembly events, Board meetings or cross Center/department events, and participating in policy forums, organizing or lobbying activities or organized partner or Intern events in the Washington DC Metropolitan area, such as Washington, DC Intern Week.
Expected skills and opportunities for development that the intern may obtain from this educational experience. Skills will include use of Microsoft Office products, SmartSheet use and implementation, policy tracking, legislative tracking, growing knowledge of policy issues, and other potential policy or implementation opportunities.
Interns will also learn about the NEA, its role in public education, issues affecting NEA members at the national, state and local level and advocacy strategies to support members and the students they serve. In addition to obtaining experience in their area of interest, interns may develop skills in collaboration, communication, writing, research, analysis, preparing reports, interviewing, and use of organizing tools and strategies.
TO APPLY:
Please submit the following documents:
1) Resume
2) Cover letter - indicating preferred department or area(s) of interest
3) Letter of recommendation
4) Writing sample
Individuals selected for an interview will be contacted by EPIC/EPP and additional samples may be required at the time of the interview.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the following is provided: The position involves skill in using a computer and/or laptop; oral and written communication skills; skills in proofreading and editing; use of clear and articulate speech; interpersonal relations skills; reasoning and problem solving skills; ability to work in a fast-paced environment; ability to sit for long periods, stoop, bend, reach and carry light materials (up to 10 lbs.); and ability to travel by various methods of transportation, e.g., airplane, car.
NEA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER AND ENCOURAGES WOMEN, MINORITIES AND PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES TO APPLY.
NEA Participates in E-Verify. Read more here E-Verify Participation & Right to Work.
NEA complies with the DC Wage Transparency Act of 2023.