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Policy Analyst Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

US Department of Commerce

Policy Analyst

Boulder, CO

$106K/yr

Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and * Contributing to internal or external ...

US Department of Commerce

Policy Analyst

Boulder, CO · On-site

$106K/yr

Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and * Contributing to internal or external ...

US Department of the Treasury

Policy Analyst

Denver, CO · On-site

$125K/yr

Experience with public and/or business administration or public policy; * Using oral and written ... conducting analysis of issues broad in nature, and/or of strategic importance; developed new ...

Colorado Access

Senior Health Policy Analyst

Denver, CO · On-site

$86K - $107K/yr

We are looking for a SENIOR HEALTH POLICY ANALYST who can help shape our vision and support our mission. Here is what the position will look like. * Leads research, monitors, and analyzes various ...

Cymertek

Key Access Control Analyst

Aurora, CO · On-site

Key Access Control Analyst LOCATION Aurora, CO 80014 CLEARANCE TS/SCI Full Poly (Please note this ... In this role, you will oversee access control systems, ensure compliance with security policies ...

ACE Scholarships

Education Policy Advisor

CO · On-site +1

$75K - $90K/yr

Strong analytical and research skills with the ability to interpret complex legislative and ... Intellectual curiosity and interest in education policy and school choice programs * Comfort ...

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All JobsPolicy Analyst JobsPolicy Analyst Jobs in Colorado

Policy Analyst information

See Colorado salary details

$56.3K

$106.2K

$123K

How much do policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy analyst in Colorado is $106,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $87,300.00 and $122,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Policy Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and a relevant degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools (like Excel or SPSS), policy modeling software, and experience with regulatory databases are typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and the ability to synthesize complex information make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for developing evidence-based recommendations and effectively communicating policy implications to stakeholders.

Is a policy analyst an entry level job?

A policy analyst can be an entry-level position, especially for recent graduates with relevant skills in research, analysis, and policy writing. However, many roles also require some experience or advanced education, and higher-level policy analyst positions typically demand several years of experience. Entry-level roles often involve supporting research and data collection under supervision.

What is the role of a policy analyst?

A policy analyst researches, evaluates, and develops public policies to address societal issues. They analyze data, review existing policies, and prepare reports to inform decision-making, often working with government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of policy tools are essential for this role.

What does a Policy Analyst do?

A Policy Analyst researches, evaluates, and develops policies to address specific issues facing governments, organizations, or businesses. They collect and analyze data, assess the impact of existing or proposed policies, and provide recommendations based on their findings. Policy Analysts often prepare reports, briefings, and presentations to communicate their insights to stakeholders and decision-makers. Their work helps inform the creation of effective and evidence-based policies.

Is policy analyst a hard job?

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

What is the highest salary for a policy analyst?

The highest salary for a policy analyst can reach over $100,000 annually, especially for those with extensive experience, advanced degrees, or working in high-cost-of-living areas. Senior policy analysts or those in leadership roles may earn even higher compensation, often supplemented with bonuses and benefits.

What are some common challenges Policy Analysts face when working with diverse stakeholders?

Policy Analysts often collaborate with stakeholders who have differing priorities, backgrounds, and values, which can lead to challenges in achieving consensus. Effectively communicating complex policy proposals in accessible language and balancing competing interests are essential skills. Additionally, Policy Analysts must remain objective and fact-based while navigating political sensitivities, which requires diplomacy and adaptability. Building strong relationships and understanding stakeholder perspectives are key to overcoming these challenges and developing effective policy recommendations.

What is the difference between Policy Analyst vs Policy Advisor?

AspectPolicy AnalystPolicy Advisor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; often a master's is preferredBachelor's or master's in public policy, political science, or law; experience in policy development
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, analyzing data and policy options, often in government agencies or think tanksAdvising policymakers, communicating policy implications, often in government or consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, NGOs, research institutionsGovernment departments, consulting firms, advocacy groups

While both roles involve understanding and developing policies, Policy Analysts primarily focus on research and analysis, whereas Policy Advisors provide strategic advice and communicate policy recommendations to decision-makers.

What Is a Policy Analyst?

Policy analysts research and evaluate current or future public policies. They most often analyze the effectiveness or impact of political policies, such as those relating to immigration or the environment, and how they have or will affect constituents. Their responsibilities include collecting and interpreting data from various sources, like surveys, focus groups, or election results.

More about Policy Analyst jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Analyst jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Policy Analyst jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Analyst jobs in Colorado? For Policy Analyst jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Policy Analyst jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Analyst jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Policy Analyst jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Policy Analyst job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Analyst jobs in CO? For Policy Analyst jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Policy Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Analyst job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 24% Contract. Highlights an 61% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 34% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,150 per year, or $51 per hour.

Policy Analyst

US Department of Commerce

Boulder, CO

$106K/yr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

118th of 839 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), Commercial Data Program with 1 vacancy in Lanham, MD or Silver Spring, MD. Additional duty locations are listed for future vacancies and/or vacancies that may be filled throughout the Department of Commerce. Please select locations for which you want to be considered.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
EDUCATION:There is no positive education requirement for this position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the ZA-4 or GS-13 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZA-3 or GS-12 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Analyzing strategies for short or long-term planning of a program's procedures and policies;
  • Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and
  • Contributing to internal or external policy forums, workshops or meetings, in areas such as agenda development, meeting planning and logistics, or drafting briefing documents and white papers.
Education:Substitution of education for specialized experience is not applicable to this vacancy.Employment Type: OTHER

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