1

Policy Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$115K - $145K/yr

He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115 - $145/hr

He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers ...

... * Assist Government Leads in preparing various quarterly and annual data calls regarding asset management from the agency, other IC agencies, and Congress to support national security policies and ...

... * Assist Government Leads in preparing various quarterly and annual data calls regarding asset management from the agency, other IC agencies, and Congress to support national security policies and ...

The Policy Office has implemented a shared responsibility model to better formulate, coordinate ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

The Policy Office has implemented a shared responsibility model to better formulate, coordinate ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

... Assist in the development of strategic communications collaboration in support of Army leadership. Review Executive Orders for issues that impact Installation and Housing and provide summaries to ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$130K - $145K/yr

The Policy Office has implemented a shared responsibility model to better formulate, coordinate ... These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers ...

SummaryThe Policy Analyst will provide direct research and analytical support to Sr. Army ... Assist in the development of strategic communications collaboration in support of Army leadership.

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review, coordination, adjudication, promulgation, communication, and compliance in accordance with NGA's Policy ...

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review, coordination, adjudication, promulgation, communication, and compliance in accordance with NGA's Policy ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Policy Assistant information

What does a policy assistant do?

A Policy Assistant supports policy analysts, advisors, and managers in researching, developing, and implementing policy initiatives. Their tasks often include conducting background research, preparing reports and briefing notes, tracking legislative developments, and coordinating meetings or consultations with stakeholders. Policy Assistants play a key role in ensuring that policymakers have the information they need to make informed decisions. They may work in government, think tanks, non-profits, or advocacy organizations.

What are some typical challenges policy assistants face when supporting multiple projects or stakeholders?

Policy Assistants often juggle several projects simultaneously, each with its own deadlines and stakeholder expectations. A common challenge is managing competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail in research, drafting documents, and coordinating meetings. Successful Policy Assistants develop strong organizational skills, adapt quickly to shifting priorities, and communicate proactively with their teams to ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Collaboration with senior policy staff and external partners is frequent, requiring flexibility and a collaborative attitude.

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

To thrive as a Policy Assistant, you need strong research and analytical skills, proficiency in written and verbal communication, and typically a relevant degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, policy analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is often required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out. These competencies ensure effective policy development, clear communication of recommendations, and smooth support of legislative or advocacy efforts.

What is the difference between Policy Assistant vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy AssistantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, economics, or related field
Work EnvironmentSupportive office settings, government agencies, NGOsResearch-focused roles, government departments, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment, non-profits, advocacy groupsGovernment agencies, research organizations, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level policy support rolesAnalyzing policy impacts and recommendations

Policy Assistants typically support policy development through administrative tasks and research, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Policy Analysts conduct in-depth research and analysis to develop policy recommendations, often needing advanced degrees. Both roles are common in government and non-profit sectors, but Policy Analysts usually have more responsibility for strategic decision-making.

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

The most popular types of Policy jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Policy Assistant jobs in Virginia?

For Policy Assistant jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Policy Assistant jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Assistant jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Policy Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Policy Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Policy Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Policy Analyst

Systems Planning and Analysis

Arlington, VA • On-site, Remote

$115K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Overview

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.  

The SLA Analysis Group provides objective analyses, plans, and strategies to USN, USAF, Australian Defence, and DARPA clients to support acquisition, delivery, and sustainment decisions. Embedded within the group lies the core SPA thought leadership on Undersea Strategy, Software Development, and Cost Estimating with additional benchmark capabilities in AI/ML & Decision Analytics, Modeling and Simulation, and Future Force Assessments.

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst.  This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. #KS

Responsibilities

The Senior Policy Analyst will support SPA's Navy Staff client in the development of Navy and Joint plans, programs, and policies. The analyst will be required to provide advice and analysis regarding inter-agency plans and policies, Navy plans on force employment and posture, how the Navy  will meet anticipated national security requirements, and Navy-wide coordination and integration with the Coast Guard and Marine Corps. He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers and requests for information; and coordinate and participate in reviews and other meetings, developing information papers and briefings, wargaming support, coordination of off-site activities, facilitation of planning conferences, coordinating policy positions across Navy stakeholders, advocacy support for the development and coordination of N5 topics and related issues across DoD and DON. Additional activities include delivering presentations to senior leaders.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research, maritime policy,

    international relations, national security affairs, strategic studies of Government, or related fields; Project Management Professional is preferred

  • Ten (10) years or more of progressive DoD experience to include experience in Echelon 1 policy and planning; fluency in OSD and Naval organizations; familiarity with current U.S. Service, Joint and DoD Capstone Strategies and Policies; OPNAV documentation, editorial, analytic and research standards; prior OPNAV and/or SECNAV experience preferred
  • Previous experience working in OPNAV or comparable Navy staff roles, including familiarity with tasker process, action memos, and other workflows
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, the ability and willingness to multi-task, and capable of professionally addressing client questions and issues
  • Proficiency with the MS Office Suite of products (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Active DoD Secret clearance is required, and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications: 

  • Experience with Navy or Coast Guard policy, plans, and programs and service integration
Pay Range InformationAt SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $115,000.00/Yr. - USD $145,000.00/Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME