1

Policy Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Risk Mgmt Policy Analyst

Chicago, IL · On-site

$81K - $135K/yr

The Risk Management Policy Associate must have strong knowledge of U.S. regulatory requirements for clearing houses and be able to apply that knowledge to Clearing House rules and services. The Risk ...

NY · On-site

$94 - $156/hr

... our associates to do meaningful work and make a lasting impact in the communities we serve ... Research accounting policy questions and assist in providing accounting guidance and advice to ...

The Policy Counsel works closely with the Senior Policy Associate and reports to the Director of Policy. LDF operates in a hybrid work environment where employees are expected to be in the office a ...

Showing results 21-40

Policy Associate information

What is a policy associate?

Policy Associates are professionals who support the development, analysis, and implementation of policies within organizations such as government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy groups. They conduct research, draft policy documents, and help communicate policy recommendations to stakeholders. Policy Associates often work closely with senior policy staff, legislators, and external partners to ensure that policies are evidence-based and effectively address relevant issues. Their role can also involve tracking legislative developments, organizing events, and preparing reports.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a policy associate?

To thrive as a Policy Associate, you need strong research and analytical skills, a relevant degree (such as in public policy or political science), and a solid understanding of legislative processes. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy tracking software, and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite are typically required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to build relationships with stakeholders are valuable soft skills. These capabilities are crucial for effectively shaping policy recommendations, supporting advocacy efforts, and ensuring informed decision-making.

What are some common challenges policy associates face when working on legislative research and analysis?

Policy Associates often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, rapidly changing legislative priorities, and the need to synthesize large volumes of complex information into concise briefs. Additionally, collaborating with diverse stakeholders and adapting to shifting political or organizational landscapes can require flexibility and strong communication skills. Staying organized and proactive is key to managing multiple projects simultaneously and ensuring that research and recommendations remain relevant and impactful.
More about Policy Associate jobs

What cities are hiring for Policy Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Policy Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy jobs?

The most popular types of Policy jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Policy Associate jobs?

The top employers for Policy Associate jobs are:

What states have the most Policy Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Policy Associate jobs include:

Infographic showing various Policy Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Director of Applied Research & Policy

Prosperity Now

Washington, DC • On-site

$112K - $163K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 21 hours ago


Job description

Description:

Since 1979, Prosperity Now has been a trusted leader in strengthening financial security, expanding access to capital, and ensuring economic stability for businesses, families, and communities. We work across sectors to develop practical, scalable solutions that create lasting change through innovation, strategic investment, collaboration, and evidence-informed action.

Position Summary

The Director of Applied Research & Policy leads Prosperity Now's enterprise research agenda, ensuring the organization produces rigorous, nonpartisan, evidence-informed research that identifies practical solutions to strengthen financial well-being, expand opportunity, and improve economic prosperity. Reporting to the Chief Programs Officer, the Director establishes research priorities, oversees applied research projects, supervises the Applied Research & Policy Associate and future Research Scientist, and translates complex economic and social science evidence into actionable insights that inform program design, policy development, strategic partnerships, and organizational decision-making.
 

Unlike traditional academic or advocacy-focused research, Prosperity Now's applied research emphasizes objective analysis, methodological rigor, and practical application. The Director ensures the organization evaluates what works, why it works, and how research can inform more effective public policy, stronger markets, and scalable solutions.


Responsibilities: 

Research Strategy & Enterprise Leadership

  • Develop and lead the enterprise applied research agenda aligned with organizational priorities.
  • Establish research priorities, methodologies, quality standards, and publication schedules.
  • Lead flagship initiatives including the State of Prosperity research portfolio.
  • Advise executive leadership on economic, demographic, and policy trends.

Applied Research & Evidence Generation

  • Direct quantitative and qualitative research on financial well-being, wealth-building, entrepreneurship, housing, tax opportunity, and family financial health.
  • Ensure methodological rigor using appropriate economic and mixed-methods research.
  • Evaluate policies, markets, and interventions using objective evidence.
  • Oversee production of reports, briefs, dashboards, and research publications.

Policy Analysis & Solution Development

  • Translate research findings into practical policy options and implementation strategies.
  • Assess feasibility, tradeoffs, and expected outcomes of proposed solutions.
  • Partner with Programs and Public Policy to ensure research informs organizational priorities.

Research Partnerships & Resource Development

  • Develop partnerships with universities, research institutions, and government agencies.
  • Support grant proposals by developing methodologies and technical narratives.
  • Represent Prosperity Now through presentations and publications.

People Leadership

  • Supervise, coach, and develop the Applied Research & Policy Associate and future Research Scientist.
  • Establish research standards and review work products.

Organizational Culture

  • Model collaborative leadership.
  • Participate in planning, goal setting, and performance management.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.


Requirements:

Qualifications:

  • Master's degree required; Ph.D. preferred in Economics, Applied Economics, Public Policy, Anthropology, Sociology, Demography, Statistics, or related discipline.
  • 8-10 years of progressively responsible applied research experience.
  • Demonstrated experience producing objective, evidence-informed research.
  • Strong grounding in economics, quantitative analysis, and mixed-methods research.
  • Experience with large public datasets and STATA, R, Python, or equivalent.
  • Experience supervising research staff.
  • Exceptional writing and presentation skills.


Supervisory Responsibility:  Applied Research & Policy Associate; future Research Scientist 

Supervisory Responsibility: None 


Work Environment and Travel: This job operates in a professional office environment and is 100% remote. 10% travel may be required. 


Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This job description is subject to change at any time. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to communicate and exchange information. The employee must frequently remain stationary and constantly operate computers and other office productivity machinery. 


FLSA Classification: Exempt 


Salary Range: Grade/Level: 3


Prosperity Now does not sponsor applicants for any kind of work visas. 


Prosperity Now is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We believe that diversity of background and perspective are strengths, and seek to continue to grow a diverse, highly committed, skilled, and collaborative staff. We encourage candidates from various backgrounds to apply.