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Education Policy Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Young Invincibles (YI) is seeking a policy engagement coordinator with methodological and data analysis skills to drive our research and advocacy on health care, higher education, and workforce ...

Young Invincibles (YI) is seeking a policy engagement coordinator with methodological and data analysis skills to drive our research and advocacy on health care, higher education, and workforce ...

Policy Analyst

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$70K - $80K/yr

The Policy Research Unit works to review, monitor, evaluate, address, and implement a diverse set ... 3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates ...

The Policy Research Unit works to review, monitor, evaluate, address, and implement a diverse set ... 3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates ...

The Policy Research Unit works to review, monitor, evaluate, address, and implement a diverse set ... 3. Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates ...

The ideal candidate is deeply curious about policy and power, understands how to translate complex ... advocates and researchers Use data, public records and budget documents to identify trends ...

Showing results 41-60

Education Policy Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do education policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for education policy researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Education Policy Researcher vs Education Program Coordinator?

AspectEducation Policy ResearcherEducation Program Coordinator
Required CredentialsMaster's or PhD in Education, Public Policy, or related fieldBachelor's or Master's in Education, Administration, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, government agenciesSchools, non-profits, educational organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy analysis, research projects, advocacyProgram implementation, student services, event coordination
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in education policyManaging educational programs and initiatives

The main difference between an Education Policy Researcher and an Education Program Coordinator lies in their focus and responsibilities. Education Policy Researchers analyze and develop education policies through research, often working in think tanks or government agencies. In contrast, Education Program Coordinators manage and implement educational programs within schools or organizations. Both roles require relevant education credentials, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are some typical challenges education policy researchers face when working with diverse stakeholders?

Education Policy Researchers often collaborate with a variety of stakeholders, including educators, policymakers, and community organizations, each bringing their own perspectives and priorities. A common challenge is balancing these sometimes conflicting interests while maintaining objectivity and ensuring that research findings are communicated clearly and impactfully. Building consensus and translating complex data into actionable policy recommendations requires strong interpersonal and communication skills. Navigating these dynamics is a key part of the role and offers valuable opportunities for professional growth.

What is an education policy researcher?

Education policy researchers are professionals who study, analyze, and evaluate policies related to education systems. They collect and interpret data to assess the effectiveness of educational programs, identify areas for improvement, and inform policymakers on best practices. Their work helps guide decisions on school funding, curriculum standards, teacher qualifications, and equity in education. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, universities, or non-profit organizations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an education policy researcher?

To thrive as an Education Policy Researcher, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in research methodologies, and typically a master's or doctoral degree in education, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with statistical software like SPSS, Stata, or R, as well as experience in data analysis and literature review, is often required. Outstanding written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders are vital soft skills. These competencies are crucial for producing rigorous research, informing policy decisions, and effectively communicating findings to influence educational outcomes.
More about Education Policy Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Education Policy Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Education Policy Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Education Policy Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Education Policy Researcher jobs include:
Infographic showing various Education Policy Researcher job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.

Assistant Professor of Educational Policy Studies & Evaluation--Qualitative Research Design & Met...

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY

$15 - $2.0K/hr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


University Of Kentucky rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 132 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 616 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Details
Job Title Assistant Professor of Educational Policy Studies & Evaluation--Qualitative Research Design & Methods, Regular Title Series Requisition Number FE04955 Working Title Department Name 8G060:Educational Policy Studies and Evaluatio Work Location Lexington, KY Type of Position Faculty Position Time Status Full-Time Tenure Track Status Tenure Track Required Education
Earned doctorate in qualitative research design and methods or related area, or an earned doctorate in disciplinary areas such as education policy, public policy, higher education, or a closely related field with extensive preparation in qualitative research design and methods.
Required Related Experience
Required qualifications include:
  • Experience in conducting qualitative research;
  • Demonstrated or evidenced potential to teach qualitative methods and methodologies at the graduate level;
  • Evidence of scholarly productivity;
  • Experience working with student populations; and
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Required License/Registration/Certification
n/a
Job Summary
The Department of Educational Policy Studies and Evaluation (EPE) in the College of Education at the University of Kentucky invites applications and nominations for a tenure-eligible Assistant Professor position, effective August 15, 2027. The individual will be responsible for carrying out research, teaching, and service within the department. We welcome applicants with methodological expertise in qualitative research design and methods that aligns with the topical areas of focus within EPE.
Main duties and responsibilities include the following:
  • Teach courses in EPE
  • Have an active research agenda including the active pursuit of extramural funding
  • Maintain a professional service agenda appropriate for rank and career stage
  • Assist with the recruitment and advising of graduate students and serve on doctoral program committees
  • Support the strategic goals and priorities of the Department, College, and University

Required qualifications include:
  • An earned doctorate in qualitative research design and methods or related area, or an earned doctorate in disciplinary areas such as education policy, public policy, higher education, or a closely related field with extensive preparation in qualitative research design and methods
  • Experience in conducting qualitative research
  • Demonstrated or evidenced potential to teach qualitative methods and methodologies at the graduate level
  • Evidence of scholarly productivity
  • Experience working with student populations
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills

Preferred qualifications include:
  • Successful post-secondary teaching and advising of graduate students
  • Online teaching experience
  • Research and methodological interests in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and large language models, community engaged inquiry, and participatory research methods

To apply for the position, please upload the following:
  • Curriculum vita
  • Cover letter - Address your qualifications, area(s) of specialization, and desired courses to teach
  • Two representative publications or writing samples
  • Unofficial Academic Transcripts - Official transcripts required upon hire
  • Statement on Teaching, Advising, and Service - (One page, upload under Specific Request 1)
  • Statement on Research and Scholarly Activity - (One page, upload under Specific Request 2)
  • Names and contact information of three people from whom references may be solicited

The review of applications begins September 11, 2026, and will continue until the position is filled. Salary is commensurate with qualifications and experience.
Questions regarding the position should be directed to Dr. Kayla Johnson, Search Committee Chair, at kayla.johnson@uky.edu
Skills / Knowledge / Abilities Does this position have supervisory responsibilities? No Preferred Education/Experience
Preferred qualifications include:
  • Successful post-secondary teaching and advising of graduate students;
  • Online teaching experience
  • Research and methodological interests in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and large language models, community-engaged inquiry, and participatory research methods.
Deadline to Apply Open Until Filled Yes Our University Community
We value the well-being of each of our employees and are dedicated to creating a healthy place for everyone to work, learn and live. In the interest of maintaining a safe and healthy environment for our students, employees, patients and visitors, the University of Kentucky is a Tobacco & Drug Free campus.
The University follows both the federal and state Constitutions as well as all applicable federal and state laws on nondiscrimination. The University provides equal opportunities for qualified persons in all aspects of institutional operations and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ethnic origin, religion, creed, age, physical or mental disability, veteran status, uniformed service, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information or social or economic status or whether the person is a smoker or nonsmoker, as long as the person complies with University regulation concerning smoking.
Any candidate offered a position may be required to pass pre-employment screenings as mandated by University of Kentucky Human Resources. These screenings may include a national background check and/or drug screen.

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About University of Kentucky

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The University of Kentucky (UK), the state's flagship university, was founded in 1865 and its beautiful, sprawling campus, nestled in downtown Lexington, now covers over 900 acres and is home to more than 30,000 students and approximately 13,500 employees. The trees and beautifully manicured greenspaces are a source of pride for the university and combine to create an impressive oasis amidst the busy cityscape that surrounds it.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Lexington, KY, US

Year founded

1865