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Policy Institute Jobs (NOW HIRING)

University of Nebraska

Office Associate

Omaha, NE · On-site

$15.25 - $20.50/hr

... policy institute of the University of Nebraskacommitted to helping transform early childhood development and education in Nebraska and across thenation. The long-term goal of the Institute is to be a ...

University of Nebraska

Office Associate

Omaha, NE · On-site

$16.25 - $21.75/hr

... policy institute of the University of Nebraskacommitted to helping transform early childhood development and education in Nebraska and across thenation. The long-term goal of the Institute is to be a ...

Institute for Justice

Senior Research Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $130K/yr

Experience conducting original analytical research, such as with a policy institute, in alegislative, executive, or regulatory role, orthrough a university-based research center. * Strong skills with ...

University of Nebraska

Early Childhood Specialist

Omaha, NE · On-site

$17.25 - $23/hr

... policy institute of the University of Nebraska committed to helping transform early childhood development and education in Nebraska and across the nation. A long-term goal of the Institute is to be a ...

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Policy Institute information

What is a Policy Institute?

A Policy Institute is an organization dedicated to researching, analyzing, and developing public policies on a range of issues, such as economics, health, education, and social welfare. These institutes often produce reports, hold events, and provide expert advice to policymakers, the media, and the public. Their goal is to inform decision-making and contribute to the creation of effective, evidence-based policies. Policy Institutes can be independent, affiliated with universities, or connected to government bodies.

What is the difference between Policy Institute vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy InstitutePolicy Analyst
CredentialsTypically advanced degrees in public policy, political science, or related fieldsBachelor's or master's degree in similar fields
Work EnvironmentResearch organizations, think tanks, or advocacy groupsGovernment agencies, think tanks, or consulting firms
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, universities, research institutionsGovernment, NGOs, private sector
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding organizational roles and functionsAnalyzing policies, providing recommendations

While a Policy Institute is an organization that conducts research and develops policy recommendations, a Policy Analyst is an individual role within or associated with these organizations, responsible for analyzing policies and providing insights. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds, but the Policy Institute is the employer or organization, whereas the Policy Analyst is the professional working within or for such organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working at a policy institute, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals at policy institutes often encounter challenges such as balancing rigorous research with the need for timely policy recommendations, managing diverse stakeholder interests, and effectively communicating complex findings to non-expert audiences. To address these challenges, it's important to develop strong time-management skills, collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, and continuously refine communication strategies for maximum impact. Proactively seeking feedback from colleagues and stakeholders can also help ensure research stays relevant and actionable.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive at a Policy Institute, and why are they important?

To thrive at a Policy Institute, you need strong research, analytical, and writing skills, often supported by an advanced degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy modeling software, and academic databases is typically required. Excellent communication, collaboration, and critical thinking skills help individuals effectively engage with stakeholders and convey complex policy ideas. These skills are crucial for producing impactful research, shaping policy recommendations, and contributing meaningfully to public discourse.
What cities are hiring for Policy Institute jobs? Cities with the most Policy Institute job openings:
What states have the most Policy Institute jobs? States with the most job openings for Policy Institute jobs include:
Policy Institute jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Institute job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution.
Research Associate for Budget and Entitlement Policy

Research Associate for Budget and Entitlement Policy

Cato Institute

Washington, DC • On-site

$57K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description:


The Cato Institute is seeking a Research Associate to support the Director of Budget and Entitlement Policy with research and related administrative tasks.


The Research Associate will help produce research summaries and original policy analysis for different publications, including working papers, blog posts, op-eds, tweets, and books. They will support the Director with topical briefs, fiscal data analyses, and organizational tasks that support Cato’s mission. The ideal candidate has a strong grasp of economics and is a self-starter, curious, and detail-oriented.


This position could be hybrid, fully remote, or at Cato’s office.


The projected salary range for this role is $57,000 – $62,000 per year. Compensation is based on the successful candidate's educational background, experience, and skills.


About Cato


The Cato Institute is a public policy research organization—a think tank—dedicated to the principles of individual liberty, limited government, free markets, and peace. Its scholars and analysts conduct independent, nonpartisan research on a wide range of policy issues.


Founded in 1977, Cato owes its name to Cato’s Letters, a series of essays published in 18th- century England that presented a vision of society free from excessive government power. Those essays inspired the architects of the American Revolution. And the simple, timeless principles of that revolution — individual liberty, limited government, and free markets – turn out to be even more powerful in today’s world of global markets and unprecedented access to information than Jefferson or Madison could have imagined. Social and economic freedom is not just the best policy for a free people, it is the indispensable framework for the future.


Cato Institute is an Equal Opportunity Employer.


Responsibilities

  • Support the research of the Budget and Entitlement Policy team.
  • Support the administrative and organizational needs of the Budget and Entitlement Policy team.
  • Produce the weekly Debt Digest, including synthesizing fiscal developments, analyzing budget data, and drafting concise summaries for publication, and similar newsletter features.
Requirements:

Education and Experience

  • A bachelor’s degree in economics or political science.
  • No prior work experience required.

Skills

  • Passion for the intersection of economics, government policy, and libertarianism.
  • Familiarity with basic economic and budgeting concepts.
  • Empirical skills and familiarity with R, STATA, Excel, and other statistical programs are a plus.
  • Strong organizational skills and a commitment to accuracy.
  • Strong writing skills.
  • Intellectual curiosity and demonstrated ability to question assumptions, think independently, and advance new ideas.

To Apply

Please submit the following materials in one PDF file:

  • CV/Resume
  • Cover Letter/Intro Email.
  • Two work samples (original data analyses, research reports, working papers, peer-reviewed articles, dissertations, data memos, blog posts, etc.).

Benefits

All Cato employees are provided with:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Employer contribution to a Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Generous vacation and sick days
  • Paid parental leave
  • Employer-provided life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) employer match
  • Transit/Parking benefits
  • Pet discount plan


Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. This position does not offer visa sponsorship.