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Educational Policy Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

American Enterprise Institute (AEI) education policy scholars research and write on the politics of education, higher education financing, school reform, and related education policy issues. The ...

Overview American Enterprise Institute (AEI) education policy scholars research and write on the politics of education, higher education financing, school reform, and related education policy issues.

POLICY ANALYST

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$70K - $111K/yr

Policy Analysts assist in the coordination of the interagency process and analysis of transactions ... OR EDUCATION: You may substitute education for general or specialized experience as follows: Ph.D ...

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Educational Policy information

See Reston, VA salary details

$57.7K

$100.7K

$161.3K

How much do educational policy jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for educational policy in Reston, VA is $100,726.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,500.00 and $119,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What can you do with an educational policy degree?

An educational policy degree prepares individuals for roles such as education policy analyst, program evaluator, or policy advisor, often working for government agencies, non-profits, or educational institutions. These positions involve analyzing, developing, and advocating for education policies, requiring skills in research, data analysis, and understanding of the education system.

What are some typical daily responsibilities for someone working in Educational Policy?

Professionals in Educational Policy often spend their days conducting research on educational issues, drafting policy recommendations, and reviewing legislative proposals. They frequently collaborate with educators, government officials, and advocacy organizations to gather insights and build support for policy initiatives. Additionally, they may organize and lead meetings or workshops, analyze data to assess policy impact, and write reports or briefs for decision-makers. This role is highly collaborative and requires both independent analysis and teamwork to drive systemic improvements in education.

What is an Educational Policy job?

An Educational Policy job involves researching, developing, and analyzing policies that impact education systems at local, state, or national levels. Professionals in this role work with government agencies, schools, and organizations to create policies that improve educational outcomes. They may focus on areas such as curriculum standards, funding, teacher accreditation, or student access. The role often requires strong research, communication, and analytical skills.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Educational policy roles typically require advanced degrees and experience; however, high-paying jobs without a degree include sales managers, real estate brokers, and certain tech roles like web developers or digital marketers, which often rely on skills and certifications rather than formal education. These positions can pay $10,000 or more monthly with experience and strong performance.

Is education policy a good career path?

Education policy is a viable career for individuals interested in shaping educational systems and reforms. It often requires strong analytical skills, knowledge of education systems, and policy analysis tools, with opportunities in government agencies, think tanks, and advocacy organizations.

How to get a job in educational policy?

To pursue a career in educational policy, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in education, public policy, or a related field, with many roles requiring a master's degree or higher. Gaining experience through internships, research, or work in education or government agencies can be valuable, along with developing skills in policy analysis, data interpretation, and stakeholder communication. Familiarity with policy tools and staying informed about education issues are also important for securing a position in this field.

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

To excel in Educational Policy, you need a solid background in education, public policy, or related fields, often supported by a relevant graduate degree. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, research databases, and statistical software like SPSS or Stata is commonly required. Strong analytical skills, effective communication, and the ability to build consensus are key soft skills in this role. These competencies are crucial for developing, evaluating, and advocating for policies that positively impact educational systems and stakeholders.

What are popular job titles related to Educational Policy jobs in Reston, VA? For Educational Policy jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Educational Policy jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Educational Policy jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Educational Policy jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Educational Policy job openings:
Infographic showing various Educational Policy job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% Internship, 56% Full Time, and 19% Part Time. Highlights an 75% In-person, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $100,726 per year, or $48.4 per hour.
Senior Policy Analyst, Higher Education

Senior Policy Analyst, Higher Education

UnidosUS

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$76K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Job description

About UnidosUS
UnidosUS is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization that serves as the nation's largest Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization. Since 1968, we have built a stronger America by creating opportunities for Latinos and breaking down barriers to expand economic and social progress for all. UnidosUS partners with an Affiliate Network of nearly 300 community-based organizations across the United States and Puerto Rico. For more information on UnidosUS, visit www.unidosus.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and Threads.
SUMMARY
UnidosUS is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to join its Education Policy Project, reporting to the Director for Education Policy. This role will serve as a subject-matter expert and partner in shaping and advancing federal and state advocacy agendas.
The Senior Policy Analyst will help develop and drive a policy agenda focused on strengthening accountability and improving return on investment in higher education, particularly for Latino students and other historically underserved communities. The role will center on advancing policies that ensure postsecondary programs deliver real economic value, protect students from low-quality or predatory programs, and close gaps in post-college outcomes. The Senior Policy Analyst will promote federal and state policies that improve transparency, enforce accountability, and ensure students enroll in programs that lead to meaningful credentials, gainful employment, and long-term economic mobility.
The ideal candidate brings familiarity with postsecondary data sets and a strong interest in using evidence to improve outcomes for Latino students.
Location: This is a hybrid position based in Washington, DC. In accordance with UnidosUS policy, employees are expected to work onsite two days per week, with Tuesdays designated as a common in-office day. Additional in-office days may be required as needed.
Salary: $76,100-$84,600
Essential Functions
  • Shape and advance UnidosUS' higher education policy agenda while generating innovative project ideas and strategies.
  • Lead analyses of emerging public policy issues and trends in higher education and produce policy documents, including issue briefs, regulatory comments, white papers, conference papers, and congressional testimony.
  • Serve as an expert on higher education policy, with a focus on policy solutions related to accountability and improving the return on investment in postsecondary education.
  • Represent UnidosUS in high-visibility forums, conferences, and meetings, including meetings with congressional staff, policymakers, issue experts, stakeholders, and the media.
  • Organize and execute policy forums, roundtables, and events to inform and elevate UnidosUS' higher education policy agenda.
  • Lead and participate in coalitions of experts and advocates on higher education.
  • Carry out communications activities to build support for UnidosUS' education priorities; provide consistent, timely updates to Affiliates, partners, and funders.
  • Manage their own projects from conception to completion, tracking deliverables, deadlines, and compliance requirements, and supporting clear reporting to funders.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • 3-5 years of policy experience in higher education.
  • Strong knowledge base of higher education policy and experience with policy development and advocacy.
  • Knowledge of and professional networks within relevant agencies, congressional offices, and/or stakeholder organizations.
  • A proven track record of conducting rigorous policy analysis and translating findings into clear, actionable policy recommendations. Ability to work collaboratively across research, communications, and external partners in a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent analytical and writing skills.
  • Displayed commitment to social justice and UnidosUS's mission.
  • Flexibility for occasional travel(less than 10%).
  • Demonstrated experience with and knowledge of the Latino community.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Master's degree in a related field.
  • Experience conducting quantitative analysis and familiarity using higher education datasets.
  • Experience communicating policy ideas in public settings such as coalition meetings, congressional hearings and briefings, major conferences, and media interviews.
  • Bilingual ability (English and Spanish), written and verbal.

Skills and Abilities
  • Steadfast commitment to UnidosUS mission, vision, and values (Excellence, Respeto, Accountability).
  • Commitment to supporting and advancing the needs of the U.S. Latino community, Latino non-profit organizations, and the Latino market. Capacity for innovative approaches to substantive policy and advocacy strategy.

Competencies
  • Analytical--Synthesizes complex or diverse information; Collects and researches data; Uses intuition and experience to complement data; Designs workflows and procedures.
  • Problem Solving--Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics.
  • Project Management--Develops project plans; Coordinates projects; Communicates changes and progress; Completes projects on time and budget; Manages project team activities.
  • Strategic Thinking--Develops strategies to achieve organizational goals; Understands organization's strengths & weaknesses; Analyzes market and competition; Identifies external threats and opportunities; Adapts strategy to changing conditions.
  • Innovation--Displays original thinking and creativity; Meets challenges with resourcefulness; Generates suggestions for improving work; Develops innovative approaches and ideas; Presents ideas and information in a manner that gets others' attention.

Physical Demands and Work Environment
  • Perform some repetitive motion activities.
  • Sit for long periods of time.
  • Frequently required to stand.
  • Frequently required to walk.
  • Frequently required to sit.
  • Frequently required to utilize hand and finger dexterity.
  • Frequently/Continually required to talk or hear.
  • Occasionally required to lift/push light weights up to 25 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required for this job include [close vision, distance vision, peripheral, depth, and ability to adjust or focus].
  • Utilize visual acuity to operate equipment, read technical information, and/or use a keyboard.
  • The noise level in the work environment usually is quiet to moderately loud.

COVID-19 Considerations:
โ€ข UnidosUS follows CDC guidance and strongly encourages employees to stay up to date on vaccinations and practice a range of preventive measures to support their well-being and maintain a healthy work environment.
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Employment with UnidosUS is contingent upon the successful completion of a background screen.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, national origin, marital status, religion, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, personal appearance, family responsibilities, political affiliation, or enrollment in a college, university, technical school, or adult education.