ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Food Policy Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Friends of the Earth

Food Policy Intern

Washington, DC · On-site

$19.50/hr

Friends of the Earth's Food and Agriculture Program is working to rapidly transition our food ... Research & Policy Support * Conduct research and summarize findings that support campaign ...

Urban Institute

$139K - $244K/yr

Serve as the primary technical advisor and research project director related to food security ... policy, political science, sociology, or economics). * Have at least 10 years (with a master ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsFood Policy Research Jobs

Food Policy Research information

See salary details

$19.5K

$64.5K

$129.5K

How much do food policy research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for food policy research in the United States is $64,550.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

Strong analytical skills, knowledge of food systems, and a background in public policy, nutrition, or economics—often supported by an advanced degree—are essential for a career in food policy research. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (like Stata or R), data visualization tools, and research databases is typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, collaboration, and critical thinking help professionals excel in this field. These skills enable thorough data analysis, effective policy recommendations, and impactful communication with stakeholders to drive evidence-based change.

What is a Food Policy Research job?

A Food Policy Research job involves analyzing policies related to food production, distribution, access, and nutrition. Professionals in this field study the impact of regulations on public health, agriculture, and food security. They collect and analyze data, assess policy effectiveness, and provide recommendations to governments, organizations, and advocacy groups. This role requires strong research skills, knowledge of economics and public policy, and an understanding of food systems.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of someone working in food policy research?

Professionals in food policy research often spend their days analyzing datasets, reviewing academic literature, and preparing policy briefs or reports to inform decision-makers. They may conduct interviews or surveys, attend stakeholder meetings, and collaborate with cross-functional teams such as public health officials, advocacy groups, and governmental bodies. Work often involves translating complex research findings into actionable recommendations for policy change. While some tasks are independent, much of the work is team-oriented and deadline-driven, offering a dynamic environment for those passionate about shaping food systems.

More about Food Policy Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Food Policy Research jobs? Cities with the most Food Policy Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Food Policy Research jobs? The most popular types of Food Policy Research jobs are:
What states have the most Food Policy Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Food Policy Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Food Policy Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Food Policy Research jobs are:
Food Policy Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Food Policy Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, and 28% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,550 per year, or $31 per hour.

Food Policy Council

Mayor's Office of Talent and Appointments

Washington, DC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Total public members: 12
Method of Appointment: Appointed by Mayor, confirmed by Council
Length of Appointment: 3 years
Residency: Strong preference for DC residents from all 8 wards
Paid board: No (all roles are voluntary)
Description:
The DC Food Policy Council (FPC) advises the Food Policy Director, District agencies, the Mayor, and the DC Council on policies to strengthen DC's food system. Specific topic areas include: Food Access & Equity; Sustainable Supply Chain; Nutrition & Health; Urban Agriculture; and Entrepreneurship & Food Jobs.
The FPC public members have several main activities/roles:
  • Attend all FPC public meetings
  • Advise the Food Policy Director and other District agency staff on DC policies, funding, and programs
  • Collaborate closely with ex-officio members from ten District agencies.
  • Convene public working groups and listening sessions
  • Research and analyze food policies and data, including monitoring best practices from other cities
  • Participate in FPC member trainings and retreats
  • Help to write short policy and advocacy documents

Public members are appointed by the Mayor and approved by the DC Council. Public members serve terms of three (3) years and may be reappointed for up to two consecutive terms. Public members are not compensated for their participation on the FPC and may not use the FPC as a channel to market their own business/organization.
The Food Policy Council's Bylaws describe the structure, processes, and decision making of the FPC in more detail. You can view the Bylaws here.
Qualifications:
  • Public members should bring experience and expertise to the FPC. This can include lived experience of food insecurity or community organizing, educational experience, professional experience, or other relevant experience.
  • Public members should be committed to racial equity in the food system and to community-informed policy development.
  • Public members can represent themselves or public, nonprofit, or for-profit entities and organizations involved in the DC food system.
  • Public members should have the capacity and interest to dedicate a significant amount of time to the FPC, including organizing and attending meetings, contributing to policy documents and projects, and participating in community meetings and events.
  • The Mayor has a strong preference for members to be District residents.

If you are interested in an appointment to this board, please complete the appointment application. A member of our team will contact you to discuss the opportunity.

Apply