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Policy Research Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Product (feature and roadmap priorities), Policy (regulatory and incentive positioning), R&D (technical requirements), and Marketing (positioning and messaging). Own this as a standing feedback loop ...

Surface field findings to Product (feature and roadmap priorities), Policy (regulatory and incentive positioning), R&D (technical requirements), and Marketing (positioning and messaging) through a ...

Surface field findings to Product (feature and roadmap priorities), Policy (regulatory and incentive positioning), R&D (technical requirements), and Marketing (positioning and messaging) through a ...

Field Strategist

OR · On-site +1

$121K - $156K/yr

This could look like complex systems research in academia, policy research at a think tank, market research in a product role, or analyst research in the intelligence community. * generalist: able to ...

Adheres to site policies and procedures. * Participates in quality activities and continuous ... Headlands Research is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race ...

Join Us in Improving Lives through Clinical Research At Headlands Research, we're not just building ... Adheres to site policies and procedures. * Participates in quality activities and continuous ...

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Policy Research information

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?

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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Research jobs in Oregon?

The most popular types of Policy Research jobs in Oregon are:

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Policy Research jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Policy Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Policy Research job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 94% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Child Care Policy Research Analyst (Research Analyst 3)

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife

Salem, OR

$5.1K - $7.9K/mo

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 15 days ago


Oregon Youth Authority rating

9.2

Company rating: 9.2 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Initial Posting Date:

08/20/2026

Application Deadline:

09/07/2026

Agency:

Department of Early Learning and Care

Salary Range:

$5,193 - $7,968

Position Type:

Employee

Position Title:

Child Care Policy Research Analyst (Research Analyst 3)

Job Description:

TheOregonDepartment of Early LearningandCareis excited to announce apermanentopening for aChild Care Research Analyst (Research Analyst 3).Now is your chance to turn datacollectioninto action thatwill makea difference for Oregon's children and families. As a Child Care Research Analyst, youwillcombine data engineering, research, and storytelling tohelp shapechild carepolicy and improve access, affordability, and quality across Oregon.

This positionwill worka hybridscheduleof working bothin the office(Salem)and at an alternatelocation (home).In office work isanticipatedas once per month, or as needed.

About the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC):

At DELC, we are dedicated to helping Oregon's young children and families learn and thrive. As the state agency responsible for early learning programs,child carelicensing, and family support services, we play a crucial role in shaping the future of Oregon's children from birth to kindergarten.

We administer state-funded early learning programs, including home visiting and site-based infant, toddler, and preschool services. We also develop coordinated systems through Early Learning Hubs and collaborate with Child Care Resource and Referral organizations to provide training, coaching, and quality improvement opportunities for early learning providers.

With over 275,000 young children in Oregon, we have a unique opportunity to transform early childhood support systems, creating a brighter future for families across the state. Research shows that investing in early childhood has lifelong benefits, and now is your chance to be part of an agency making a lasting impact for generations to come.

WhyJoinOurTeam?We are passionate about equity in early childhood education. At DELC, we value dedication, integrity, and collective wisdom, fostering a diverse, inclusive, and welcoming workplace where all employees can thrive. We challenge ourselves to lead with courage, refine practices, and drive meaningful change for children and families statewide.

WhatWeOffer:

  • Comprehensive Benefits: Low-cost medical, vision, and dental coverage for you and your family, plus optional benefits like life and disability insurance, deferred compensation, and flexible spending accounts.

  • Work-Life Balance: 11 paid holidays, 3 personal days, 1 special day, monthly sick leave, and vacation accruals that increase every 5 years.

  • Student Loan Forgiveness: Potential federal loan forgiveness after 120 qualifying payments.

  • Inclusive Culture: A diverse, welcoming workplace committed to equity and continuous improvement.Click on the following link tolearn more about what it's liketo work at DELC.

Our Commitment to Equity:Equity is at the heart of our mission. We strive to remove barriers, foster inclusiveness, and create meaningful change for underrepresented communities. Our goal is to ensure all DELC employees,child careprovidersand the children and families we support thrive. If you are ready to make a difference and help shape Oregon's future, we would love to have you on our team!

What you will do:

As a Child Care Research Analyst, you will use data, research, and technology to help inform Oregon'schild carepolicies and programs. Youwilldesign andmaintaindata pipelines and analytical datasets,conduct research and statistical analysis, develop Power BI dashboards and reports, and ensure the quality, security, andappropriate useofchild caredata.This positionalso collaborateswith state agencies, research partners, and internal program teams to collect andtransformdata, translate findings into actionable policy recommendations, and communicate complex information to a variety of audiences.

To view a complete job description, click here

What we are looking for(minimum qualifications):

  • ABachelor's Degreein any discipline that included six-quarter units in statistics or quantitative analysis methods and procedures, and one year experience using computerized applications to independently gather, compile, and analyze data and prepare narrative or statistical reports;
    OR

  • Four years of research experience using computerized applications to independently gather, compile, and analyze data and prepare narrative or statistical reports.

In addition, we are looking for applicants that have the following Desired Attributes(requested skills):

  • Experience designing, building, andmaintainingdata pipelines and transformation workflows, including experience with Snowflake, SQL, Git/version control, or equivalent data environments.

  • Experience analyzing complex datasets and using quantitative and qualitative methods toidentifytrends, patterns, relationships, and findings that answer program, research, or policy questions.

  • Experience applying data and research findings to inform policy recommendations, program decisions, regulations, requirements, or improvements, particularly in complex public-sector environments.

  • Experience designing, building, and documenting dashboards, reports, and graphical representations of data using Power BI, Excel, Visio, or equivalent tools.

  • Experiencevalidatingdata,identifyingand resolving data quality issues, and developing and documenting workflows, procedures, data processes, and methodologies.

  • Experience communicating professionally and effectively, orally and in writing, with a variety of audiences; explaining complex information; answering questions; and appropriately handling confidential or sensitive information.

  • Experience working effectively with technical and program staff, external partners, other agencies, or organizations to coordinate data, resolve issues, and achieve sharedobjectives.

  • Experience managing multiple projects, competing priorities, technical deliverables, and external policy-driven deadlines whilemaintainingaccuracy and quality.

TheOregonDepartmentof Early LearningandCarestrivesto create an inclusive environment that welcomes and values the diversity of the people we serve. We foster fairness, equity, and inclusion to create a workplace environment where everyone is treated with respect anddignity.Candidates of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as bilingual/multicultural individuals, are encouraged to apply.

ToApply:

The screening of candidates will be based on a review of an attached resume (limit to two pages).While a cover letter is notrequired, it is highly encouraged. If yousubmita cover letter, please tailor it to the position and address your experience with the desired attributes listed above.Candidates whose backgrounds most closely match the desired attributes and experience section as outlined in this announcement will be invited to interview.Forhelpfultips on putting together your application materialsand interviewing, visitourResources forJob Seekerspage.Please do not attach transcripts or letters of recommendationto your application, only a resume and cover letter will be reviewed. Ifadditionalinformation is needed, we will follow up.

Additional Information:

This recruitment announcement will be used toestablisha list of qualified candidates to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.

This position is subject to both a Child Protective Services and Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) check, including FBI fingerprinting, and will berequiredto enroll in the Central Background Registry.Both of thesechecks must be completed and approved prior to starting with the agency. The results can take 1-3 weeks to get back. Adverse background datawillbe grounds for immediate disqualification. This positionwillrequire occasional travel to field officesand for meetings, therefore, a valid driver license and acceptable driving record isrequired, unless the successful applicant can providea satisfactoryalternatemode oftransportation.

EligibleVeteransand Oregon National GuardServicememberswho meet the qualifications will be givenVeterans' preference. For further information, please see the following website:Veterans Resources.

TheOregon Department of Early LearningandCaredoes not offer visa sponsorship. Within three days of hire, all applicants willbe requiredto complete the US Department of Homeland Security's Form I-9, confirming authorization to work in the United States. TheDepartmentis an E-Verify employer.

The job posting closes at 11:59 PM (PDT) on the close date.After yousubmityour application, be sure to respond to the two questionnaires relating to public records requests and veterans' preferenceimmediatelyfollowing your submittal. These questions are necessary to complete the application process.

External Applicants (non-state of Oregon employees):If you would like toretaina copy of this job posting, please print a copy beforesubmittingyour application. Once the job posting has closed, you will not be able to access the posting.

The employee in this position will be represented by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and will be subject to allterms and conditionsof the collective bargaining agreement. Pay and benefits on all job listings may change without notice.

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Not from Oregon?Learn more about ourbeautiful statehere

Applicants with a disability may request a reasonable accommodation toparticipatein the hiring process. For assistanceregardingreasonable accommodation requests, please contact the agency recruitment team atDELC.Jobs@delc.oregon.gov

TheOregon Department of Early LearningandCareis an equalopportunity,affirmative action employer committed to a diverse workforce. We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job. We would encourage you to apply, even if youdon'tmeet every one of ourdesired attributeslisted.If you are unsure whether you meet the qualifications of this position, please feel free to contact us to discuss yourapplication.


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