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Policy Research Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Policy Analyst

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Conduct policy research and analysis to support development of enterprise policies and programs. * Evaluate existing policies to identify gaps, risks, and improvement opportunities. * Develop, update ...

Senior Policy Analyst

Linthicum, MD · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Conduct policy research and analysis to support development of enterprise policies and programs. * Evaluate existing policies to identify gaps, risks, and improvement opportunities. * Develop, update ...

Conduct policy research and analysis to support development of enterprise policies and programs. * Evaluate existing policies to identify gaps, risks, and improvement opportunities. * Develop, update ...

In doing so, the institute aims to support businesses and policies that better the lives of people ... The Research Analyst will also work closely with the Institute's Research Initiatives team on ...

New

Senior Policy Research Specialist Job Summary The Policy Research Sr Specialist supports work on ... The position provides research, analysis, and subject matter support throughout the lifecycle of ...

Perform data analysis and research related to identified policy areas to inform decision making.Prepare portions of policy reports in support of Policy Directors in various issue areas.Draft rapid ...

Showing results 41-60

Policy Research Analyst information

See salary details

$38.5K

$74K

$99.5K

How much do policy research analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy research analyst in the United States is $73,965.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a policy research analyst do?

A Policy Research Analyst studies and evaluates policies, laws, and regulations to provide informed recommendations to organizations, government agencies, or advocacy groups. They gather and analyze data, review existing policies, and prepare reports to help guide decision-making. Analysts often specialize in areas like healthcare, education, environment, or public administration, and their work helps shape effective and evidence-based policies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a policy research analyst?

To thrive as a Policy Research Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in quantitative and qualitative research, and a relevant degree such as public policy, economics, or political science. Familiarity with statistical analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, Stata), policy databases, and data visualization software is often required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail help convey complex information effectively and collaborate with stakeholders. These skills are crucial for producing accurate, actionable policy recommendations that drive informed decision-making.

What are some common challenges policy research analysts face when synthesizing complex data for policy recommendations?

Policy Research Analysts often encounter the challenge of translating large volumes of complex, and sometimes conflicting, data into clear and actionable policy recommendations. Balancing thoroughness with the need for concise communication, especially for non-technical stakeholders, can be demanding. Analysts must also ensure that their findings are unbiased and grounded in evidence, while adapting to evolving policy priorities and tight deadlines. Effective collaboration with subject matter experts and policy makers is essential to overcome these hurdles and produce impactful research.

What is the difference between Policy Research Analyst vs Policy Advisor?

AspectPolicy Research AnalystPolicy Advisor
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsSimilar educational background, often with additional experience in policy development
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, think tanksGovernment departments, legislative offices, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in research-focused roles within public and private sectorsAdvising policymakers and stakeholders on policy decisions
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles, data analysis, policy evaluationPolicy development, strategic advice, stakeholder engagement

While both roles involve policy work, Policy Research Analysts focus on data collection, analysis, and research to inform policy decisions. Policy Advisors, on the other hand, provide strategic guidance and recommendations directly to policymakers, often utilizing research findings to shape policy outcomes.

More about Policy Research Analyst jobs

What cities are hiring for Policy Research Analyst jobs?

Cities with the most Policy Research Analyst job openings:

What states have the most Policy Research Analyst jobs?

States with the most job openings for Policy Research Analyst jobs include:

Infographic showing various Policy Research Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, 27% Hybrid, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,965 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Senior Policy Analyst

Spry Methods

Linthicum, MD • On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Company Overview
Spry Methods is a proven provider of mission-focused technology, cybersecurity, and program management solutions supporting critical Federal and DoD missions. We specialize in delivering integrated, high-impact solutions across cyber operations, enterprise resource management, and mission support services. Our culture emphasizes collaboration, accountability, and innovation - empowering our teams to deliver meaningful outcomes in complex, high-security environments.
Who We're Looking For (Position Overview)
The Senior Policy Analyst provides policy research, analysis, and development support across enterprise programs. This role supports the development, coordination, and maintenance of policies, taskings, and agreements to ensure alignment with organizational objectives, regulatory requirements, and mission priorities.
The position enables informed decision-making by analyzing complex policy issues, developing recommendations, and supporting stakeholder engagement across government, industry, and academic partners.
What Your Day-To-Day Looks Like (Position Responsibilities)
  • Conduct policy research and analysis to support development of enterprise policies and programs.
  • Evaluate existing policies to identify gaps, risks, and improvement opportunities.
  • Develop, update, and coordinate policy documents aligned with federal and DoD guidance.
  • Manage policy initiatives, including project plans, timelines, and dependencies.
  • Establish and maintain policy frameworks supporting program execution and performance measurement.
  • Monitor implementation progress and support resolution of policy and execution issues.
  • Identify emerging trends and assess impacts on policy and mission objectives.
  • Develop policy recommendations, proposals, and supporting documentation for leadership review.
  • Engage stakeholders to gather input, build consensus, and support coordinated policy development.
  • Represent the organization in working groups and stakeholder engagements.
  • Prepare briefings, reports, and presentations to communicate policy issues clearly.
  • Respond to policy-related inquiries across government, industry, and partner organizations.

What You Need to Succeed (Minimum Requirements):
  • Active Secret security clearance.
  • Demonstrated experience developing, analyzing, and managing policy within federal or DoD environments, particularly within cybersecurity, digital forensics, cyber operations, or related mission domains.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to assess complex technical and operational issues, identify impacts, and develop actionable recommendations.
  • Proven ability to research, interpret, and apply policy guidance from federal, DoD, and Intelligence Community sources, ensuring alignment with applicable directives, regulations, and standards.
  • Demonstrated experience communicating complex policy issues clearly and effectively in both written and oral formats, including preparation of briefings, reports, and executive-level materials.
  • Knowledge of policies impacting cybersecurity, digital forensics, cyber training, system development, or mission support functions within a federal or DoD context.
  • Experience coordinating across multiple stakeholders, including government leadership, technical teams, and external partners, to support policy development and implementation.
  • Ability to manage multiple concurrent policy initiatives, including developing and tracking project plans, timelines, deliverables, and dependencies.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure accuracy, consistency, and traceability of policy documentation and supporting materials.

Ideally, You Also Have (Preferred Qualifications):
  • Experience supporting policy development in cybersecurity, digital forensics, or cyber operations environments.
  • Familiarity with national-level cybersecurity or intelligence community policy frameworks.
  • Experience participating in policy working groups, governance boards, or interagency coordination efforts.
  • Knowledge of DoD or Intelligence Community resource planning and governance processes.
  • Ability to translate complex technical topics into clear, actionable policy recommendations.

$150,000 - $170,000 a year
This position is tied to a federal proposal effort. Employment is contingent upon contract award and successful completion of the customer's onboarding and security requirements. Start dates and final reporting instructions will be confirmed upon award.
Perks of Working for Us (Benefits):
Medical Coverage - Cigna - 4 Options
- Traditional - PPO Open Access Plus Network
- (2) HDHP - PPO Open Access Plus Network
- HDHP - EPO Open Access Plus Network
Dental Coverage - Cigna - PPO Base & Buy-Up Plans
Vision Coverage - Principal - VSP Choice Network
Paid Holidays: Full-time employees receive 11 paid federal holidays
Paid Time Off (PTO) - PTO accrual starts at 15 days per year
Training Benefit - Annual training allowance available toward any job-related training or education
401(k) - Multiple Fund Choices through Fidelity with a company match
For our full list of benefits, please visit http://www.sprymethods.com/careers/benefits/
EEO Statement
At Spry, we believe talented and dedicated employees are our most valued assets and the foundation of our success. We are committed to crafting a diverse and inclusive workplace that endorses engagement, creativity, quality and innovation.
We are proud to be an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer and as such, we evaluate qualified candidates in full consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, disability status, protected veteran status, and any other protected status.
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.