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$26.5K

$68.9K

$131K

How much do policy research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy research in the United States is $68,921.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is policy research?

Policy research is the process of systematically investigating and analyzing public policies, programs, or proposals to provide evidence-based recommendations to policymakers and stakeholders. It involves collecting and evaluating data, assessing the effectiveness of current policies, and exploring alternative approaches to address social, economic, or political issues. Policy researchers work in government agencies, think tanks, academic institutions, and non-profit organizations to inform decision-making and improve outcomes for communities.

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

To thrive as a Policy Researcher, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a background in public policy or a related field, often supported by an advanced degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS or Stata, as well as proficiency in literature review databases and policy analysis frameworks, is commonly required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are crucial soft skills that help convey complex information clearly. These competencies enable effective evidence-based recommendations and impactful contributions to policy development.

How does a Policy Researcher typically collaborate with policymakers and other stakeholders in their daily work?

Policy Researchers often work closely with policymakers, advocacy groups, and subject matter experts to ensure their findings are both practical and actionable. Daily tasks may include drafting reports, presenting research results in meetings, and responding to feedback from stakeholders. Collaboration is key, as researchers must balance rigorous analysis with the real-world needs and constraints of the organizations and communities they serve. Regular communication and teamwork help ensure that research informs policy decisions effectively and remains relevant to pressing issues.

What is the difference between Policy Research vs Policy Analysis?

AspectPolicy ResearchPolicy Analysis
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 EnvironmentResearch institutions, think tanks, government agenciesGovernment agencies, consulting firms, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageUsed for gathering data and understanding issuesUsed for evaluating options and making recommendations

Policy Research involves gathering data, conducting studies, and understanding issues, while Policy Analysis focuses on evaluating options and providing recommendations based on research findings. Both roles often overlap but serve different stages in the policy development process.

More about Policy Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Policy Research jobs? Cities with the most Policy Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Research jobs? The most popular types of Policy Research jobs are:
What states have the most Policy Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Policy Research jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Policy Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Research jobs are:
Policy Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,921 per year, or $33.1 per hour.

Policy Research Analyst

University of Louisiana, Lafayette

Lafayette, LA

Other

Posted 13 days ago

University Of Louisiana At Lafayette rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

132nd of 536 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Kathleen Blanco Public Policy Center at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is an independent, interdisciplinary research center and archive engaged in research across a range of topics in public policy, including education, poverty and economic opportunity, criminal justice reform, health and healthcare, the coast and environment, and governmental ethics.  
The Policy Research Analyst, under the supervision of a Research Scientist, will support a wide range of public policy research and data management work including quantitative analysis of large administrative data sets and building subject matter expertise in key policy areas. 
Essential functions: 

Support the LA FIRST research team by: 

  • Building a center of expertise in criminal justice and criminal justice reform in Louisiana using quantitative and qualitative research skills, including but not limited to interviews with practitioners and policymakers, building and maintaining a library of extant literature, and crafting expert literature reviews and presentations that can inform research focus and policy discussions 
  • Conducting exploratory data analysis and statistical analyses of longitudinal or cross-sectional data using Stata statistical software  
  • Carrying out research designs under the supervision of the Research Scientist 
  • Completing administrative tasks of the research team at the discretion of the Research Scientist (e.g., scheduling, documentation, communications, and special project management) 
  • Translate research findings for broad and varied audiences in academic papers and presentations, policy briefs and papers, public presentations, webinars, video recordings, and data visualizations and dashboards 
  • Participate in training, user agreements, and business processes established by the LA FIRST Information Division to protect individual data privacy and confidentiality 
  • Participate in synchronous and asynchronous team management practices of the LA FIRST team 

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