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Policy Analyst Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

US Department of Commerce

Policy Analyst

Madison, WI · 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 ...

WPS

Senior IT Security Analyst

Madison, WI · On-site +1

$90K - $115K/yr

Our Senior Security Policy Analyst is responsible for developing, implementing, and maintaining security policies, standards, and procedures while leveraging ServiceNow to streamline policy ...

SmartIPlace

Business Analyst

Madison, WI · Remote

$35 - $49/hr

Use knowledge and experience to assist the employees and other experienced Program and Policy Analysts in their day-to-day duties. * Reviews, analyzes, and evaluates business systems and user needs.

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All JobsPolicy Analyst JobsPolicy Analyst Jobs in Madison, WI

Policy Analyst information

See Madison, WI salary details

$53.9K

$101.7K

$117.9K

How much do policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy analyst in Madison, WI is $101,735.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,600.00 and $117,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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.

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.

How do you get a job as a policy analyst?

To become a policy analyst, typically a bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or a related field is required, with many roles preferring a master's degree. Relevant skills include research, data analysis, and strong communication, often supported by experience through internships or entry-level positions. Familiarity with policy research tools and a good understanding of government or organizational processes are also beneficial.

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 experienced analysts or those working in high-cost areas may earn higher compensation, often supplemented with benefits and opportunities for advancement.

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.
More about Policy Analyst jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Analyst jobs in Madison, WI?

The most popular types of Policy Analyst jobs in Madison, WI are:

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For Policy Analyst jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Policy Analyst jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Policy Analyst jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Policy Analyst job openings:

Policy Analyst jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Analyst job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 91% In-person, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,735 per year, or $48.9 per hour.

Policy Analyst

Work with us | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

Madison, WI • On-site

$106K/yr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

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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