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Policy Analyst Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Public Policy Manager

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $106K/yr

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

Demonstrated experience analyzing legislation and regulations, preparing policy briefs, and advising leadership on advocacy strategies. Preferred Education, License/Certification, or Work Experience:

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Showing results 1-20

Policy Analyst information

See Iowa salary details

$50.3K

$94.8K

$109.9K

How much do policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy analyst in Iowa is $94,818.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $78,000.00 and $109,400.00 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Analyst jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Policy Analyst jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Analyst jobs in Iowa? For Policy Analyst jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Policy Analyst jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Policy Analyst job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Analyst jobs in IA? For Policy Analyst jobs in IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Policy Analyst job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $94,818 per year, or $45.6 per hour.
CWMD Strategy & Policy Analyst

CWMD Strategy & Policy Analyst

Booz Allen Hamilton

Peterson, IA

$61K - $141K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Booz Allen Hamilton rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 73 rated business consultants


Job description

CWMD Strategy & Policy Analyst

The Opportunity:

As a defense mission professional, you ask questions others don't. You understand the nuances of complex environments, and you leverage your skills to think bigger, push further, and solve difficult challenges. We're looking for someone like you to help create innovative solutions for missions that secure the safety and stability of our nation.

As aCWMD Strategy & Policy Analyst, you'll combine your policy analysis, strategic planning, and analytical expertise to design and implement mission-critical solutions for CWMD programs. You'll contribute to the research, development, and assessment of strategic initiatives aimed at improving policies and mission alignment while supporting critical decision-makers. Your knowledge of compliance, risk management, and analytical workflows will ensure optimized performance and informed action as part of an integrated defense mission.

You'll impact the work we do for CWMD missions and the solutions we deliver for national security, defense planning, and program compliance. Engaging with a cross-functional team of experts, you'll help shape key policies and ensure procedural excellence in addressing key national priorities, including readiness, deterrence, and security efforts.

Grow your career with us as you help solve complex design, integration, and policy challenges for some of our nation's most critical objectives. Work with us as we help to ensure a safer future for generations to come.

Join us. The world can't wait.

You Have:

  • Experience developing and analyzing procedures, workflows, and documentation for CWMD or defense policy programs

  • Knowledge of national security policy, compliance standards, and risk identification and mitigation strategies

  • Ability to deliver timely and effective analyses to support decision-making in complex operational environments

  • Top Secret clearance

  • Bachelor's degree or 5+ years of experience in an analytical or CWMD field in lieu of a degree

Nice If You Have:

  • Experience with stakeholder engagement for cross-agency coordination under national security programs

  • Knowledge of treaty compliance, policy optimization strategies, and defense mission planning

  • Master's degree in Policy Analysis, National Security Studies, Public Administration, or a related field

  • Project Management Professional (PMP) or other relevant Policy or Defense Certifications

Clearance:

Applicants selected will be subject to a security investigation and may need to meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information;Top Secret clearance is required.

Compensation

At Booz Allen, we celebrate your contributions, provide you with opportunities and choices, and support your total well-being. Our offerings include health, life, disability, financial, and retirement benefits, as well as paid leave, professional development, tuition assistance, work-life programs, and dependent care. Our recognition awards program acknowledges employees for exceptional performance and superior demonstration of our values. Full-time and part-time employees working at least 20 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in Booz Allen's benefit programs. Individuals that do not meet the threshold are only eligible for select offerings, not inclusive of health benefits. We encourage you to learn more about our total benefits by visiting the Resource page on our Careers site and reviewing Our Employee Benefits page.

Salary at Booz Allen is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $61,900.00 to $141,000.00 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Booz Allen's total compensation package for employees. This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Identity Statement

As part of the hiring process, we will ask you to complete an identity verification process that leverages advanced biometrics and artificial intelligence to ensure authenticity and protect against identity fraud. You are expected to be on camera during interviews and assessments. We reserve the right to take your picture to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

Candidate AI Usage Policy

AI is a part of our daily work at Booz Allen, and we are committed to the responsible and ethical use of AI tools. However, we want to ensure a fair candidate process based on your own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or other tools to assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is prohibited unless permission is explicitly provided.

Work Model
Our people-first culture prioritizes the benefits of collaboration, whether it occurs in person or virtually. To support engagement and effective communication, employees working virtually are generally expected to have their cameras on during meetings.

  • Remote: If this position is listed as remote, there may still be occasions when you are required to work in person at a Booz Allen or customer facility.

  • Hybrid: If this position is listed as hybrid, you will be expected to work from a Booz Allen facility frequently, in alignment with leadership expectations and the needs of the role. You may also be required to work from or visit a customer facility.

  • Onsite: If this position is listed as onsite, work will primarily be performed at a Booz Allen office or customer facility, where employees will collaborate directly with colleagues and customers as required by the role.

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local, or international law.


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About Booz Allen Hamilton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Booz Allen Hamilton is a leading provider of management and technology consulting services to the US government in defense, intelligence, and civil markets. Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the firm also serves major corporations, institutions, and not-for-profit organizations. Founded in 1914 by Edwin G. Booz, the company has a long-standing tradition of helping clients achieve success by delivering a wide range of consulting services that include strategic planning, human capital and learning, communication, systems development, and others. The company's mission is to empower people to change the world, and it has a reputation for maintaining the highest standards of integrity and-excellence.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

McLean, VA, US

Year founded

1914