1

Policy Planner Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$130K - $180K/yr

Overview Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to ... SPA has a need for CWMD Plans and Policy Analysts in the NCR and multiple MAJCOM locations to ...

Reporting to the Special Advisor for Policy and Planning, the Policy Analyst will: - Develop and refine briefings and memos for Executive decision-making & high-level policymaking by gathering ...

Knowledge of the practices and principles of public policy planning and formulation. Knowledge of the structure and operations of related state and federal governmental programs. Ability to analyze ...

Senior Planner

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $130K/yr

Advance/policy planning, state and federal permitting procedures and compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) may all be required.

Policy Analyst

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

Reporting to the Special Advisor for Policy and Planning, the Policy Analyst will: -Develop and refine briefings and memos for Executive decision-making & high-level policymaking by gathering ...

Senior Planner

Downey, CA · On-site

$80K - $140K/yr

Advance/policy planning, state and federal permitting procedures and compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) may all be required.

Reporting to the Special Advisor for Policy and Planning, the Policy Analyst will: - Develop and refine briefings and memos for Executive decision-making & high-level policymaking by gathering ...

... policies and programs to strengthen tenant protections, promote housing stability, and ensure ... The Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning oversees key housing, land use, and planning agencies and ...

Policy Analyst

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30K/yr

The Kennedy Commission is seeking a full-time Policy Analyst. A qualified candidate will be an ... use and planning, among others. Our work will help mitigate community inequities and disparate ...

Policy Advisor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$100K - $125K/yr

... policies and programs to strengthen tenant protections, promote housing stability, and ensure ... The Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning oversees key housing, land use, and planning agencies and ...

... policies and programs to strengthen tenant protections, promote housing stability, and ensure ... The Deputy Mayor for Housing and Planning oversees key housing, land use, and planning agencies and ...

Showing results 41-60

Policy Planner information

See salary details

$33K

$69.6K

$113K

How much do policy planner jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy planner in the United States is $69,591.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,000.00 and $81,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Policy Planner, you need a solid background in urban planning, public policy, or a related field, typically supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS), data analysis tools, and planning regulations is commonly required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and stakeholder engagement skills set top performers apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for developing informed, sustainable policies that address community needs and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Policy Planner vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy PlannerPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsGovernment agencies, research organizations, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in planning and development of policies at strategic levelsUsed in analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting policies and data

Policy Planners focus on developing and designing policies, while Policy Analysts evaluate and interpret existing policies. Both roles often require similar educational backgrounds and work in related environments, but their core functions differ: planning versus analysis.

What is a policy planner?

Policy Planners are professionals who research, develop, and evaluate policies and programs for organizations or government agencies. They analyze data, consult with stakeholders, and recommend strategies to address social, economic, or environmental issues. Policy Planners often prepare reports, advise decision-makers, and help ensure that policies align with organizational goals and public needs. Their work plays a key role in shaping effective and sustainable solutions for communities and institutions.

What are some common challenges policy planners face when building consensus among stakeholders?

Policy Planners often encounter the challenge of balancing diverse and sometimes conflicting interests among stakeholders, such as government agencies, community groups, and private organizations. Achieving consensus requires strong communication and negotiation skills, as well as the ability to present data-driven analyses that address varying concerns. Policy Planners must be adept at facilitating meetings, managing expectations, and finding creative compromises to develop effective and widely supported policies. Building trust and maintaining transparency throughout the planning process are also critical for overcoming resistance and ensuring successful policy adoption.
More about Policy Planner jobs

What states have the most Policy Planner jobs?

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

What job categories do people searching Policy Planner jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Planner jobs are:

Infographic showing various Policy Planner 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, with an average salary of $69,591 per year, or $33.5 per hour.

Deterrence Policy Analyst

Systems Planning and Analysis

Arlington, VA • On-site

$130K - $180K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 12 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 Sea, Land, Air Analysis Group's mission is to deliver objective analyses, plans and strategies to US Navy, US Marine Corps, USAF, other DoD, and Australian Defence Force clients to support technology development, acquisition, delivery and sustainment decisions. The group provides the core of 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 a need for a senior Deterrence Policy Analyst to lead analysis and integration of national deterrence guidance into Air Force policy and planning. This role helps AF/A10 shape and interpret strategic documents and reviews for the Air Force deterrence mission.
Responsibilities
The senior Policy Analyst reviews and analyzes national-level documents such as the NSS, NDS, NPR, Missile Defense Review, and related guidance, identifying implications for Air Force deterrence policy and force development. They develop options papers, decision memos, and briefs that support AF/A10's positions in major strategic reviews and planning activities. They help articulate Air Force equities in joint and interagency strategic planning, aligning nuclear, CWMD, and broader deterrence contributions. They also coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure AF/A10 positions are coherent, timely, and fully staffed.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in international relations, strategic studies, security studies, or a related discipline; master's degree preferred
  • 8+ years of experience in strategic policy analysis, deterrence planning, or closely related work in a headquarters, joint, or interagency environment
  • Demonstrated ability to interpret and synthesize complex strategic guidance into clear recommendations for senior leaders
  • Active TS/SCI clearance and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications:
  • Direct experience supporting one or more strategic reviews (e.g., NPR, NDS development, JSCP, major PBRs)
  • Familiarity with nuclear posture, NC3, CWMD, and conventional-nuclear integration issues and how they fit into broader deterrence strategy

Pay Range Information
At 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 $130,000.00/Yr. - USD $180,000.00/Yr.