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Policy Analyst Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Budget Analyst 1, 2 OR 3

Decatur, IL

$50K - $70K/yr

Performs review and analysis of budget program and policy issues, analyzes financial trends or proposed legislation, and recommend appropriate courses of action to management. Performs expenditure ...

New

TRIGO

Logistics Planning Analyst

Decatur, IL · On-site

$25/hr

Ensure inventory is accurate and maintained at appropriate levels and policies and procedures are ... Analytical Skills - Ability to use thinking and reasoning to solve a problem. * Energetic, friendly ...

ADM

Support Analyst - Decatur, IL

Decatur, IL

$48K - $73K/yr

This group assists location personnel in our network of elevators with established policies and ... analytical abilities, initiative and problem solving skills are necessary to adapt to a rapidly ...

Enterprise

Entegral Financial Analyst

Clintonia, IL · On-site +1

$75K - $90K/yr

ABOUT THE ROLE The Financial Analyst for Entegral plays a key role in analyzing, evaluating and ... Strong understanding of accounting policies and rules * Ability to maintain confidential ...

TecTammina

Maximo Business Analyst

Decatur, IL · On-site

Required skills: * 4+ years of demonstrated experience with IBM Maximo working as a Functional Consultant/Business Analyst. This must include working with Maximo table structures, schemas and ...

AllSTEM Connections

Field Service Analyst

Decatur, IL · On-site

$83K/yr

The pay transparency policy is available here: For temporary assignments lasting 13 weeks or longer, AllSTEM Connections is pleased to offer major medical, dental, vision, 401k and any statutory sick ...

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All JobsPolicy Analyst JobsPolicy Analyst Jobs in Decatur, IL

Policy Analyst information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$51.9K

$97.9K

$113.5K

How much do policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy analyst in Decatur, IL is $97,918.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $80,500.00 and $113,000.00 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 cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Policy Analyst jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Policy Analyst job openings:
Policy Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Analyst job openings in Decatur, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,918 per year, or $47.1 per hour.

Payroll Analyst

Decatur Public Schools District #61

Decatur, IL • On-site

$22.60 - $36.66/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 5 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Position Type:
Secretarial/Clerical/Payroll
Date Posted:
7/8/2026
Location:
Keil Administration Building
Date Available:
TBD
Closing Date:
07/21/2026
TITLE: Payroll Analyst
PAY: $22.60-36.66/hour based on experience
QUALIFICATIONS:
  • High School Diploma or equivalent required.
  • Excellent Computer, record keeping, and organization skills.
  • Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work independently, recognize priorities in work load, and shift between tasks as needed.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality

REPORTS TO: Coordinator of Payroll
Job goal:
To support the smooth and efficient operation of the school/building in order to maximize positive education outcomes for stakeholders.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
The following are the essential functions, including but not limited to, the following job duties as assigned:
  • Assist in bi-weekly payroll processes with time sheets, keying data, verifying account numbers, substitute information, and distributing pay statements.
  • Maintain leave of absence information for payroll processing.
  • Edit and maintain leave bank data.
  • Maintain IMRF enrollment, termination, and disability information.
  • Assist with Worker Compensation tracking within the payroll system.
  • Assist with the annual Teacher Retirement System (TRS) report.
  • Perform other job-related duties, as assigned.

CLASSIFICATION: C
TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:
8 hours per day for 261 in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement
EVALUATION:
Performance of this job will be evaluated in accordance with provisions of the Board's policy on Evaluation of Professional Personnel.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT:
The conditions herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential job functions.
  • Environment

The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate. The job is performed inside under minimal temperature variations and a generally hazard free environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
  • Physical

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use motions with their wrists, hands, and/or fingers, including prolonged use of a computer terminal. The employee is frequently required to sit for prolonged periods, see, talk, and hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand and walk. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
  • Vision

Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus with or without correction.
  • Hearing

The employee is required to hear in the normal audio range, with or without correction.
  • Mental Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly is required to compare, analyze, communicate, coordinate, instruct, synthesize, evaluate, use interpersonal skills, compile, and negotiate. The employee frequently is required to compute. The employee occasionally is required to copy.
Decatur Public Schools is an equal employment opportunity employer with an affirmative action plan.
This position falls under the DECATUR EDUCATIONAL SUPPORT PERSONNEL ASSOCIATION Contract - JULY 1, 2021 - JUNE 30, 2025.
The Salary Schedule is attached above. Benefit information can be found HERE.
Attachment(s):
  • Payroll Analyst 2.8.2022.docx

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