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Policy Research Associate Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Tamus

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Galveston, TX · On-site

Job Title Postdoctoral Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Department Institute For A ... policy solutions. The Department of Ocean Engineering conducts world-class research in offshore and ...

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Policy Research Associate information

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$15

$31

$44

How much do policy research associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for policy research associate in Houston, TX is $31.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.00 and $35.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a policy research associate do?

A Policy Research Associate is responsible for gathering, analyzing, and presenting data and information related to public policies. They support policy development by conducting research on social, economic, or political issues, evaluating policy impacts, and preparing reports or briefs for stakeholders. Their work helps organizations, government agencies, or advocacy groups make informed decisions and craft effective policies. They often collaborate with experts, attend policy meetings, and stay updated on relevant legislation or trends.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a policy research associate?

To thrive as a Policy Research Associate, you need strong analytical abilities, research skills, and a relevant degree in public policy, political science, or a related field. Experience with data analysis tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), and policy databases is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and critical thinking are vital soft skills for this position. These skills are essential for producing accurate, influential policy analyses and supporting informed decision-making in government or nonprofit organizations.

What are common challenges policy research associates face when working on multiple projects?

Policy Research Associates often juggle several projects at once, each with different deadlines, stakeholders, and areas of focus. Managing competing priorities and adapting to shifting policy landscapes can be challenging, especially when new research requests arise unexpectedly. Successful associates develop strong time-management and organizational skills, regularly communicate with team members, and remain flexible to adjust their workload as project needs evolve. Collaboration and clear documentation also help ensure research quality is maintained across all assignments.

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

AspectPolicy Research AssociatePolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; some roles prefer master'sBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, often in think tanks, NGOs, or government agenciesAnalysis and policy development, often in government, think tanks, or advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in research organizations, NGOs, government agenciesWidely used in government, think tanks, and policy consulting firms

Policy Research Associates primarily focus on gathering and analyzing data to support policy development, while Policy Analysts interpret data to recommend specific policy actions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, but their core functions differ in emphasis on research versus analysis.

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Research jobs in Houston, TX?

The most popular types of Policy Research jobs in Houston, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Policy Research Associate jobs in Houston, TX?

For Policy Research Associate jobs in Houston, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Policy Research Associate jobs in Houston, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Research Associate jobs in Houston, TX are:

Policy Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research Associate job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 5% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $64,638 per year, or $31.1 per hour.

Postmaster Research Associate - Transportation

Texas Southern University

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

Postmaster Research Associate - Transportation

Postmaster Research Associate – Transportation supports research initiatives within the transportation program by contributing to data collection, analysis, and project coordination. This position is designed for individuals who have completed a master's degree and are seeking advanced research experience in transportation systems, policy, and planning. The role supports faculty-led and grant-funded projects while ensuring compliance with institutional and sponsor requirements. This is a Grant Funded position.

Essential Duties Summary - Brainstorm research concepts, secure external funding, design transportation test plans, develop transportation computational models, and interpret research results in sustainable transportation studies. Contribute to the work of experimentalists and other computational researchers in the group. Contribute to the mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students. Assist in the design, implementation, and management of transportation-related research projects.

Conduct data collection, analysis, and interpretation using appropriate analytical tools and methodologies. Support the preparation of technical reports, research papers, and grant proposals. Perform literature reviews and synthesize findings to support ongoing research efforts. Coordinate project activities, timelines, and deliverables in collaboration with faculty and research staff. Maintain accurate research documentation and ensure compliance with institutional, state, and federal guidelines.

Present research findings at meetings, conferences, and workshops as needed. Utilize transportation modeling tools, GIS software, and statistical analysis programs as required.

Position End Date (if temporary)

Posting Detail Information

UA EEO Statement - It is the policy of Texas Southern University to provide a work environment that is free from discrimination for all persons regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, individuals with disability, sexual orientation, or protected veteran status in its programs, activities, admissions or employment policies.

This policy of equal opportunity is strictly observed in all University employment-related activities such as advertising, recruiting, interviewing, testing, employment training, compensation, promotion, termination, and employment benefits. This policy expressly prohibits harassment and discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, genetic history, national origin, individuals with disability, age, citizenship status, or protected veteran status.

This policy shall be adhered to in accordance with the provisions of all applicable federal, state and local laws, including, but not limited to, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act. Manual of Administrative Policies and Procedures

Open Until Filled (overrides close field) - Yes

Special Instructions to Applicants - Open to all applicants.

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