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Policy Development Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

ENRA NERC Spec Prin

Columbus, OH · On-site

$98K - $128K/yr

Policy development - Lead the development of AEP's policy positions by synthesizing SME input, drafting recommendations, and shaping clear, defensible corporate perspectives. Regulatory analysis ...

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Policy Development information

See Ohio salary details

$41.8K

$99.6K

$148.8K

How much do policy development jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy development in Ohio is $99,595.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,100.00 and $121,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is policy development?

Policy development is the process of creating, evaluating, and implementing rules, guidelines, or courses of action that guide decisions and achieve rational outcomes within organizations or governments. This process involves identifying issues, researching possible solutions, consulting stakeholders, drafting policy documents, and often reviewing and revising policies based on feedback and changing circumstances. Effective policy development helps ensure consistency, compliance, and the achievement of organizational or governmental objectives.

How does a Policy Development professional typically collaborate with other departments within an organization?

Policy Development professionals often work closely with departments such as legal, compliance, operations, and communications to ensure that proposed policies are practical, legally sound, and align with organizational objectives. Collaboration often involves cross-functional meetings, gathering input from stakeholders, and integrating feedback into policy drafts. This team-oriented approach helps ensure policies are comprehensive, implementable, and well-communicated across the organization.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Policy Development, and why are they important?

To thrive in Policy Development, you need strong analytical, research, and writing skills, often supported by a degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, data visualization software, and legislative tracking systems is typically required. Outstanding communication, stakeholder engagement, and critical thinking abilities help professionals excel when building consensus and navigating complex issues. These skills are essential for crafting effective, evidence-based policies that address societal challenges and achieve organizational goals.

What is the difference between Policy Development vs Policy Analysis?

AspectPolicy DevelopmentPolicy Analysis
Primary FocusCreating and drafting policiesEvaluating and analyzing policies
Skills RequiredResearch, writing, policy draftingData analysis, critical thinking, evaluation
Work EnvironmentCollaborative, policy offices, government agenciesResearch institutions, government departments, think tanks
Common CertificationsPolicy or public administration degreesPublic policy, statistics, or research certifications

Policy Development involves creating and drafting policies to address specific issues, often requiring strong writing and research skills. Policy Analysis focuses on evaluating existing policies through data analysis and critical assessment. While both roles require understanding of public policy and related credentials, Policy Development is more about crafting policies, whereas Policy Analysis emphasizes evaluating their effectiveness.

What are popular job titles related to Policy Development jobs in Ohio? For Policy Development jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Public Policy and Strategic Communications Intern (Graduate Student)

Public Policy and Strategic Communications Intern (Graduate Student)

AARP

Columbus, OH • On-site

$28/hr

Internship

Posted 12 days ago


AARP rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

110th of 680 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

Overview
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health and financial security, and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation's largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and the AARP Bulletin.
The AARP Ohio team seeks a highly motivated Public Policy and Strategic Communications Intern to support advocacy, policy, and communications initiatives aligned with Age-Friendly Ohio and livable communities work. This role offers a unique opportunity to operate at the intersection of policy development, stakeholder engagement, and public-facing communications-translating complex policy issues into compelling narratives that drive awareness and action. The intern will gain hands-on experience supporting legislative priorities, community-based initiatives, and integrated communications strategies that advance AARP's mission across Ohio. This paid internship is set to start in Summer 2026, with a possibility of continuing until the end of the year.
Responsibilities
  • Support development of policy briefs, backgrounders, testimony, and messaging documents tied to priority issues (family caregiving, fraud prevention, livable communities)
  • Translate policy and research into accessible communications content (op-eds, talking points, fact sheets, digital content)
  • Conduct policy and landscape research related to Age-Friendly Ohio and local livability initiatives
  • Assist in stakeholder mapping and engagement strategies across key communities (e.g., Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Delaware)
  • Support advocacy campaign execution, including coordination of communications tactics across PESO channels
  • Participate in strategy discussions with advocacy, communications, and community engagement teams
  • Track legislative activity and summarize key developments for internal use
  • Provide on-site or virtual support for advocacy events, community meetings, or public forums

Qualifications
  • Must be enrolled in a degree program at an accredited college or university as a graduate student or postdoctoral student and remain academically enrolled throughout the internship
  • Strong preference for candidates pursuing a J.D., Master of Public Policy (MPP), Master of Public Administration (MPA), Urban Planning, Advocacy, or related graduate degree
  • Exceptional research, analytical, and writing skills
  • Ability to synthesize complex policy topics into clear, audience-friendly messaging
  • Interest in public policy, advocacy, livable communities, urban planning, or community-based initiatives
  • Ability to manage multiple projects, anticipate needs, and prioritize effectively
  • Ability to work well with diverse populations, including age, gender, race, and sexual orientation
  • Technical proficiency in Microsoft Office programs; familiarity with communications tools is a plus

AARP will not sponsor an employment visa for this position at this time.
Additional Requirements
  • Regular and reliable job attendance
  • Exhibit respect and understanding of others to maintain professional relationships
  • Independent judgement in evaluation options to make sound decisions
  • In office/open office environment with the ability to work effectively surrounded by moderate noise
  • Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds

Hybrid Work Environment
AARP observes Mondays and Fridays as remote workdays, except for essential functions. Remote work can only be done within the United States and its territories.
Compensation and Benefits
The hourly range is $18 for undergraduates, $21 for graduate students, $28 for Ph.D. candidates. Internships are non-exempt positions and are not eligible for employee benefits.
Equal Employment Opportunity
AARP is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and sustaining an inclusive culture. AARP does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, color, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, mental or physical disability, genetic information, veteran status, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law.