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Government Policy Analyst Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Systems Planning and Analysis

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

... government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly ... SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $150K/yr

... government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly ... SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the ...

Systems Planning and Analysis

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

... government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly ... SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the ...

Analytic Services Inc.

Policy Analyst

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$99 - $144/hr

Position Summary ANSER is seeking a Policy Analyst to support program analysis, acquisition ... You will support program planning, field service coordination, and government reporting activities ...

Analytic Services Inc

Program Analyst

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$99K - $144K/yr

You will support program planning, field service coordination, and government reporting activities ... Perform quantitative and qualitative analysis of program, operational, and contract data to ...

ECS

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$96K - $118K/yr

This position is contingent upon contract award and final acceptance by government customer. The Policy Analyst role is broad and multifaceted, spanning strategic, technical, and administrative ...

New

Synertex, LLC

Policy Analyst

Mclean, VA · On-site

TS/SCI with a Polygraph Position # 688016842 Synertex is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to work ... Benefits include competitive PTO, 11 days Paid Government Holidays, a 401k with 6% matching and an ...

Arenatechnologies

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115 - $145/hr

... government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly ... Responsibilities The Senior Policy Analyst will support SPA's Navy Staff client in the development ...

ManTech

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

... government intelligence agencies. Since 1968, we've been solving the toughest challenges with ... The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ...

ManTech International

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

... government intelligence agencies. Since 1968, we've been solving the toughest challenges with ... The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ...

ManTech

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

... government intelligence agencies. Since 1968, we've been solving the toughest challenges with ... The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ...

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All JobsGovernment Policy Analyst JobsGovernment Policy Analyst Jobs in Virginia

Government Policy Analyst information

See Virginia salary details

$53K

$100.1K

$116K

How much do government policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for government policy analyst in Virginia is $100,083.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $115,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a government policy analyst do?

A Government Policy Analyst researches, evaluates, and develops policies and programs for government agencies. They analyze data, review legislation, and provide recommendations to help shape public policy. Their work often involves consulting with stakeholders, preparing reports, and assessing the effectiveness of existing policies. Policy analysts play a key role in ensuring that government decisions are informed, effective, and aligned with public needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a government policy analyst?

To thrive as a Government Policy Analyst, you need strong analytical, research, and writing skills, typically supported by a degree in public policy, political science, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, government databases, and policy modeling software is often required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help you present findings and build consensus. These abilities are vital for developing effective policies that address complex societal challenges and inform government decision-making.

What are some common challenges government policy analysts face when working on cross-departmental projects?

Government Policy Analysts often collaborate with multiple departments, each with its own priorities and procedures. This can lead to challenges such as coordinating communication, managing conflicting interests, and ensuring all stakeholders are aligned on project goals. Analysts must be adept at building consensus, navigating bureaucratic structures, and maintaining objectivity while balancing diverse viewpoints. Successfully managing these challenges is key to driving impactful policy recommendations and fostering effective interdepartmental collaboration.

What is the difference between Government Policy Analyst vs Legislative Assistant?

AspectGovernment Policy AnalystLegislative Assistant
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; often a master's is preferredBachelor's degree in political science, law, or related field; some roles may prefer experience in legislative processes
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, advocacy groupsLegislative offices, government agencies, congressional offices
Employer & Industry UsagePublic sector, policy research organizations, NGOsLegislative bodies, congressional offices, government institutions
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles involve working within government and policy, a Government Policy Analyst primarily researches, analyzes, and develops policy recommendations for government agencies or organizations. A Legislative Assistant supports legislators by managing schedules, preparing briefs, and assisting with legislative procedures. The roles overlap in policy understanding and government environment but differ in focus and responsibilities.

Is a government policy analyst in demand?

Government policy analysts are in steady demand due to ongoing need for policy development, analysis, and evaluation in government agencies and organizations. Employment prospects are generally favorable for those with strong research, analytical skills, and familiarity with policy tools and data analysis software. Job growth varies by region and government funding levels but remains a stable career option in the public sector.

Is it hard to get a job as a government policy analyst?

Securing a government policy analyst position can be competitive, often requiring a relevant bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or a related field, along with experience in research and analysis. Strong analytical skills, familiarity with policy tools, and sometimes security clearances can also influence hiring prospects.

What are popular job titles related to Government Policy Analyst jobs in Virginia?

For Government Policy Analyst jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Government Policy Analyst jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Government Policy Analyst jobs in Virginia are:

Government Policy Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Government Policy Analyst job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $100,083 per year, or $48.1 per hour.

Policy Analyst

Systems Planning and Analysis

Arlington, VA • On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The SLA Analysis Group provides objective analyses, plans, and strategies to USN, USAF, Australian Defence, and DARPA clients to support acquisition, delivery, and sustainment decisions. Embedded within the group lies the core SPA thought leadership on Undersea Strategy, Software Development, and Cost Estimating with additional benchmark capabilities in AI/ML & Decision Analytics, Modeling and Simulation, and Future Force Assessments.
SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.
Responsibilities
The Senior Policy Analyst will support SPA's Navy Staff client in the development of Navy and Joint plans, programs, and policies. The analyst will be required to provide advice and analysis regarding inter-agency plans and policies, Navy plans on force employment and posture, how the Navy will meet anticipated national security requirements, and Navy-wide coordination and integration with the Coast Guard and Marine Corps. He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers and requests for information; and coordinate and participate in reviews and other meetings, developing information papers and briefings, wargaming support, coordination of off-site activities, facilitation of planning conferences, coordinating policy positions across Navy stakeholders, advocacy support for the development and coordination of N5 topics and related issues across DoD and DON. Additional activities include delivering presentations to senior leaders.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research, maritime policy,
    international relations, national security affairs, strategic studies of Government, or related fields; Project Management Professional is preferred
  • Ten (10) years or more of progressive DoD experience to include experience in Echelon 1 policy and planning; fluency in OSD and Naval organizations; familiarity with current U.S. Service, Joint and DoD Capstone Strategies and Policies; OPNAV documentation, editorial, analytic and research standards; prior OPNAV and/or SECNAV experience preferred
  • Previous experience working in OPNAV or comparable Navy staff roles, including familiarity with tasker process, action memos, and other workflows
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, the ability and willingness to multi-task, and capable of professionally addressing client questions and issues
  • Proficiency with the MS Office Suite of products (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Active DoD Secret clearance is required, and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience with Navy or Coast Guard policy, plans, and programs and service integration

Pay Range Information
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $135,000.00/Yr. - USD $150,000.00/Yr.

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