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Policy Advisor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Department of Labor

Senior ERISA Advisor

Pasadena, CA · On-site

$151K/yr

Technical Qualification 1: Expert Knowledge of ERISA and Employee Benefits Policy Demonstrated ... and advise senior executives on agency-wide strategies, priorities, regulatory initiatives ...

goodr

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Los Angeles, CA

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Inglewood, CA

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Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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Voltai, Inc

Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... and Senior Foreign-Policy Advisor to four US presidents. What we are Looking For * 3+ Years of Software Engineering experience graduated from top-tier CS, EECS, math or physics programs.

Voltai, Inc

Server Hardware Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$145K - $191K/yr

... Advisor, and Senior Foreign-Policy Advisor to four US presidents. About this Role You'll design, bring up, and validate the next generation of compute and storage platforms powering Voltai's AI ...

Voltai

System Architect

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$285K/yr

... Policy Advisor to four US presidents. About this Role You will define the architecture for advanced compute and hardware systems -- integrating AI co-design, performance modeling, and cross-domain ...

Voltai, Inc

Machine Learning Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... Policy Advisor to four US presidents. What we're Looking For * Strong AI/ML engineering skills from top tier CS, EECS, Math and Physics programs. * Proven track record of delivering AI/ML projects ...

Voltai

Software Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... and Senior Foreign-Policy Advisor to four US presidents. What we are Looking For * 3+ Years of Software Engineering experience graduated from top-tier CS, EECS, math or physics programs.

Voltai

Lab Automation Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

... Policy Advisor to four US presidents. About this Role You'll design, implement, and maintain the automation infrastructure that powers Voltai's hardware validation labs. You'll build systems that ...

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All JobsPolicy Advisor JobsPolicy Advisor Jobs in California

Policy Advisor information

See California salary details

$43.4K

$103.4K

$154.4K

How much do policy advisor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy advisor in California is $103,388.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $125,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a policy advisor?

Policy advisors research and analyze the policies in a specific field. As a policy advisor, your job duties involve reviewing current policies, developing more effective strategies, and communicating these changes to those in charge. Policy advisors often work for schools, medical facilities, and government agencies. Positions are also available as political policy analysts with the federal government, political think tanks, and private firms. Your exact job responsibilities as a policy advisor vary greatly depending on your field and specific employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a policy advisor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Advisor, you need strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of public policy, and typically a relevant degree such as in political science, public administration, or law. Familiarity with data analysis tools, legislative tracking systems, and policy research databases is important to conduct thorough evaluations. Excellent written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder management are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are vital for effectively shaping policy recommendations, influencing decision-makers, and ensuring policies are evidence-based and impactful.

How does a policy advisor typically collaborate with various stakeholders when developing new policies?

Policy Advisors frequently work with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, subject matter experts, advocacy groups, and community representatives. Effective collaboration involves conducting consultations, facilitating meetings, and synthesizing feedback to ensure policies are both practical and broadly supported. Strong communication and negotiation skills are essential, as Policy Advisors must balance differing interests while maintaining alignment with organizational objectives. This collaborative approach is crucial for creating well-informed and implementable policy recommendations.

What is the difference between Policy Advisor vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy AdvisorPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; often advanced degrees preferredBachelor's or master's in public policy, political science, economics, or related areas
Work EnvironmentAdvises government officials or organizations, often in office settings, attending meetings and briefingsResearch-focused, analyzing data and policy options, working in offices or research institutions
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, think tanks, consulting firmsGovernment departments, research organizations, think tanks, consulting firms

While both Policy Advisors and Policy Analysts work within the policy field, Policy Advisors primarily provide strategic advice and recommendations to decision-makers, whereas Policy Analysts focus on researching, analyzing, and evaluating policy options. The roles often overlap, but Advisors tend to have more direct influence on policy development and implementation.

What education is needed to be a policy advisor?

A policy advisor typically needs at least a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law, economics, or a related field. Many roles prefer or require a master's degree or higher, along with strong analytical, communication, and research skills. Relevant experience and knowledge of government processes or policy analysis are also important.

What is the typical policy advisor salary?

The salary for a policy advisor typically ranges from $60,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior policy advisors or those in specialized fields may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $120,000. Compensation can also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.
More about Policy Advisor jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Advisor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Policy Advisor jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Policy Advisor jobs in California?

For Policy Advisor jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Policy Advisor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Advisor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Policy Advisor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Policy Advisor job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Policy Advisor jobs in CA?

For Policy Advisor jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Policy Advisor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Advisor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $103,388 per year, or $49.7 per hour.

Environmental Science and Policy Peer Advisor

Chapman University

Orange, CA • On-site

$16.90/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Chapman University rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

264th of 628 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/40863 Job Number SE232124
Position Information
Department or Unit Name Biology Position Headcount 1 Position Title Environmental Science and Policy Peer Advisor Academic Year Fall 2026 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $16.90 - $16.90 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Richelle Tanner Supervisor Email rtanner@chapman.edu
Scheduling

Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)

Desired Start Date 09/04/2026 Projected End Date 05/23/2027 Average number of hours per week Up to 10 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Environmental Science and Policy (ES&P) Peer Advisor supports current and prospective ES&P students by providing peer-to-peer guidance on academic planning, course selection, departmental resources, and campus support services. 
As a student representative of the ES&P program, this position helps students navigate their academic journey while promoting student engagement, success, and connection to the university community.
Responsibilities
  • Respond to student inquiries regarding course selection, registration, degree requirements, and departmental resources.
  • Provide peer advising support while referring complex academic concerns to faculty advisors and professional advising staff as appropriate.
  • Maintain accurate student files, records, and advising documentation.
  • Document student interactions and pertinent advising information in accordance with departmental procedures.
  • Assist students with academic planning and provide guidance on available university resources.
  • Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with faculty advisors, the Academic Advising Center, and departmental staff.
  • Assist in planning and delivering presentations at advising events, open houses, recruitment activities, and New Student Orientation programs.
  • Promote awareness of Environmental Science and Policy program opportunities, resources, and requirements.
  • Represent the ES&P program in a professional and positive manner.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
  • Current Chapman University student in good academic standing.
  • Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Interest in mentoring, advising, and supporting fellow students.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling student information.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to learn departmental and university policies, procedures, and resources.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Dependable, professional, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
  • Commitment to providing excellent customer service and student support.
Desired Qualifications
  • Major or minor in Environmental Science and Policy (ES&P) or a related field.
  • Familiarity with Chapman University's academic programs, registration processes, and student support resources.
  • Previous experience in peer mentoring, tutoring, student leadership, orientation programs, customer service, or academic support roles.
  • Strong presentation and public speaking skills.
  • Experience working with diverse student populations.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Enthusiasm for environmental issues, sustainability, student success, and community engagement.
  • Demonstrated involvement in campus organizations, departmental activities, research, service, or leadership opportunities.

Training will be provided on advising resources, registration processes, departmental expectations, confidentiality requirements, and student support procedures.

Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS

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