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Lead Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Everwatch

Policy Analyst, Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$62.50 - $72.12/hr

Lead and support SME analysis for gap analysis and policy revisions. Conduct independent verification and validation to ensure policies are clear, fact-based, accurate, and consistent with external ...

Everwatch

Policy Analyst, Mid

Springfield, VA · On-site

$62.50 - $72.12/hr

Lead and support SME analysis for gap analysis and policy revisions.Conduct independent verification and validation to ensure policies are clear, fact-based, accurate, and consistent with external ...

State of Washington

Senior Policy Analyst

Olympia, WA · Hybrid

$84K - $111K/yr

Washington Courts Employment Opportunity Administrative Office of the Courts Senior Policy Analyst ... lead role and/or managing/directing groups or teams. Relevant experience may substitute for the ...

Public Health Solutions

Senior Policy Analyst

Queens, NY · On-site

$98K/yr

The Senior Policy Analyst will work under the direction of the Policy & Strategy Implementation ... Lead or coordinate responses to legislation and proposed regulations at the federal, state, and ...

Everwatch

Policy Analyst, Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$62.50 - $72.12/hr

Lead and support SME analysis for gap analysis and policy revisions.Conduct independent verification and validation to ensure policies are clear, fact-based, accurate, and consistent with external ...

Everwatch

Policy Analyst, Senior

Springfield, VA · On-site

$62.50 - $72.12/hr

Lead and support SME analysis for gap analysis and policy revisions.Conduct independent verification and validation to ensure policies are clear, fact-based, accurate, and consistent with external ...

Sigmatech, Inc.

Export Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · Hybrid

We lead the U.S. Army Security Assistance Enterprise (ASAE), providing leadership, resource ... Position Overview We are recruiting a highly experienced Export Policy Analyst t to provide expert ...

Everwatch

Policy Analyst, Senior

Springfield, VA

$62.50 - $72.12/hr

Lead and support SME analysis for gap analysis and policy revisions. Conduct independent verification and validation to ensure policies are clear, fact-based, accurate, and consistent with external ...

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All JobsLead Policy Analyst Jobs

Lead Policy Analyst information

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$11K

$107.7K

$160K

How much do lead policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead policy analyst in the United States is $107,672.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,000.00 and $130,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Lead Policy Analysts?

Lead Policy Analysts are senior professionals who conduct research, evaluate data, and provide recommendations to influence public policy decisions. They often oversee policy projects, guide junior analysts, and collaborate with stakeholders to develop effective strategies. Their responsibilities include analyzing legislative proposals, assessing policy impacts, and preparing reports or briefings for decision-makers. Lead Policy Analysts play a crucial role in shaping policies that address complex social, economic, or environmental issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Policy Analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Policy Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in policy research, and an advanced degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis software (such as Stata or R), policy modeling tools, and experience with legislative databases are typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and leadership skills help in presenting findings clearly and guiding teams. These abilities are vital for developing effective policy recommendations and influencing decision-making processes at organizational or governmental levels.

What are some common challenges Lead Policy Analysts face when managing cross-departmental policy initiatives?

Lead Policy Analysts often encounter challenges when aligning diverse stakeholder interests and ensuring clear communication across multiple departments. Navigating differing priorities and securing consensus can require strong negotiation and facilitation skills. Additionally, managing tight deadlines and adapting to evolving regulatory landscapes are frequent aspects of the role. Successful Lead Policy Analysts leverage collaborative tools and maintain open dialogue to keep projects on track and foster cohesive teamwork.

Is policy analyst a hard job?

A policy analyst role involves analyzing, developing, and evaluating policies, which can be intellectually demanding and require strong research, critical thinking, and communication skills. The job often involves tight deadlines, complex data interpretation, and staying updated on current issues, making it challenging for some individuals.

Is there a demand for policy analysts?

The demand for policy analysts, including lead policy analysts, is generally strong due to ongoing government, nonprofit, and private sector efforts to develop and evaluate policies. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as organizations seek expertise in analyzing complex issues, developing strategies, and ensuring compliance, often requiring skills in research, data analysis, and policy writing.

Where do policy analysts make the most money?

Policy analysts tend to earn higher salaries in large organizations, government agencies, or private consulting firms located in major metropolitan areas with a high cost of living. Senior roles, specialized expertise, and advanced degrees can also contribute to higher compensation levels across regions.

What is the difference between Lead Policy Analyst vs Policy Analyst?

AspectLead Policy AnalystPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often advanced degrees in public policy, economics, or related fieldsBachelor's degree, sometimes master's in relevant fields
Work EnvironmentLeading projects, supervising teams, strategic planningResearch, data analysis, policy development
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, think tanks, large organizationsGovernment, NGOs, consulting firms

The Lead Policy Analyst typically has more responsibilities, including supervising teams and leading policy initiatives, while the Policy Analyst focuses on research and analysis. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and are common in government and policy organizations, but the lead position involves more leadership and strategic planning.

How much do policy analysts make in the US?

Policy analysts in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000, with salaries ranging from approximately $50,000 to over $100,000 depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions generally start lower, while senior analysts or those in specialized fields can earn higher salaries. Skills in data analysis, policy research, and familiarity with tools like Excel or statistical software can influence compensation.
More about Lead Policy Analyst jobs
What states have the most Lead Policy Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Policy Analyst jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Lead Policy Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Policy Analyst jobs are:
Lead Policy Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Policy Analyst job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, and 66% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,672 per year, or $51.8 per hour.
Senior Policy Analyst

Senior Policy Analyst

New York City Economic Development Corporation

New York, NY • On-site

$83K - $85K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Our Vision: To make New York City the global model for inclusive innovation and economic growth, fueled by the City's diverse people and businesses.
Our Mission: Creating a vibrant, inclusive, and globally competitive economy for all New Yorkers.
POSITION OVERVIEW:
The Economic Research & Policy Department (ERP) conducts industry and economic research, performs fiscal and economic impact modeling, and analyzes NYCEDC projects to inform key policy and investment decisions. The team tracks economic trends and provides insights to City Hall, policymakers, and the public, while also developing tools to evaluate, measure, and report on project outcomes. ERP advances high-impact thought leadership on inclusive and innovation-driven economic development.
The Senior Policy Analyst will primarily conduct fiscal and economic impact modeling while contributing to a broader portfolio of quantitative research, including cost-benefit analysis, industry sizing, demographic analysis, labor market research, and publications. The Senior Policy Analyst will collaborate across departments to develop quantitative models, analyze complex datasets, and communicate findings to diverse internal and external audiences. The ideal candidate brings strong analytical and technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to translate complex data into clear insights.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Conduct fiscal and economic impact analyses for real estate development projects, tax incentives, policy changes, and big events
  • Complete cost-benefit analyses focused on societal impacts, particularly as they relate to transportation infrastructure projects
  • Produce analysis to support NYCEDC projects and priority industries, including industry sizing, demographic analysis, and labor market analysis
  • Identify research topics that drive NYCEDC thought leadership on key issues, sometimes serving as project manager or lead analyst on these projects, and present findings to internal and external stakeholders via presentations and publications
  • Conduct thorough and timely reviews of complex spreadsheets (including formulas) and other written materials to ensure data accuracy and consistency
  • Represent the department in interdepartmental working groups and collaborate effectively in cross-functional initiatives
  • Respond to data requests from internal teams, agencies, agency leadership, and City Hall staff
  • Monitor external research and economic trends, synthesizing and sharing key findings with agency leadership
  • Contribute to the maintenance and expansion of data sources available to the department
  • Contribute to the maintenance and update of modeling methodologies and assumptions

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor's degree in Statistics, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field, with significant exposure to statistics
  • 3+ years of relevant experience. Candidates with a range of experience levels are encouraged to apply and may be considered for a Policy Analyst role based on qualifications
  • Advanced proficiency in Excel, and proficiency analyzing data in R. Proven ability in using database and presentation tools, including Excel, PowerPoint and Word. Experience with REMI, IMPLAN, or RIMS II is a plus. Experience with fiscal impact analysis, economic impact analysis, and cost-benefit analysis is a plus.
  • Demonstrated written and verbal communication skills with the ability to convey technical data and the results of complex analyses clearly and effectively to a variety of audiences
  • Demonstrated attention to detail, and a commitment to data accuracy and quality management
  • Proven quantitative and analytical skills, with experience working with large and varied data sets. Demonstrated ability to develop creative solutions for complex research and modeling projects is a plus.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities effectively and work both independently and collaboratively in a high-pressured, fast-paced environment.
  • Proactive and resourceful with a focus on continuous improvement
  • Comfortable interfacing with senior officials and external stakeholders across sectors
  • Demonstrated enthusiasm for the mission of NYCEDC
  • NYC residency is required within 180 days of hire.

Salary Range
$83,000-$85,000 USD
About Us: New York City Economic Development Corporation is a mission-driven, nonprofit organization that works for a vibrant, inclusive, and globally competitive economy for all New Yorkers. We take a comprehensive approach, through four main strategies: strengthen confidence in NYC as a great place to do business; grow innovative sectors, with a focus on equity; build neighborhoods as places to live, learn, work, and play; and deliver sustainable infrastructure for communities and the city's future economy.
NYCEDC is committed to offering competitive benefits to support employee health, happiness, and work-life balance. We offer comprehensive benefits and unique perks to ensure NYCEDC employees flourish in their professional and personal lives:
  • Generous employer subsidized health insurance
  • Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
  • Vision and hearing benefits
  • Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care
  • Short term and long-term disability coverage
  • 100% employer covered life insurance and supplemental life insurance coverage
  • Up to 25 vacation days
  • Floating Holidays and Summer Fridays
  • Parental leave - up to 20 paid weeks
  • Retirement savings programs
    • Company-paid 401(a) defined contribution plan
    • 457(b) tax-advantaged retirement savings plan
  • Tuition Reimbursement program
  • Continuing education and professional development
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligible employer
  • College savings plan
  • Backup childcare
  • Gym membership discounts
  • A Calm.com membership for mindfulness and mental health support
  • Employee discounts through Plum Benefits and much more

Benefits listed above may vary based on the length and nature of your employment with New York City Economic Development Corporation. These benefits are subject to be modified at any time, at the discretion of the organization.
The New York City Economic Development Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our Diversity, Equity, and Social Responsibility Mission is to create a People First strategy by attracting, retaining, and engaging a diverse and talented workforce. Like the city of New York, NYCEDC knows our strength comes from each of our connected parts, making the fabric of our organization better and stronger because of our unique employees' talents.
For more information, visit our website at edc.nyc.

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