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Policy Research Jobs in Silver Spring, MD (NOW HIRING)

Public Policy Manager

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$85 - $90/hr

Monitor, research, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to nicotine and tobacco, substance use prevention, cannabis regulation, opioid ...

Monitor, research, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to nicotine and tobacco, substance use prevention, cannabis regulation, opioid ...

Public Policy Manager

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$85K - $90K/yr

Monitor, research, and analyze federal, state, and local legislation, regulations, and policy developments related to nicotine and tobacco, substance use prevention, cannabis regulation, opioid ...

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Policy Research information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$27.1K

$70.5K

$134K

How much do policy research jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy research in Silver Spring, MD is $70,484.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,531.00 and $85,393.00 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?

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 Silver Spring, MD?

The most popular types of Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What are popular job titles related to Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Research jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Policy Research jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Policy Research job openings:

Infographic showing various Policy Research job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,484 per year, or $33.9 per hour.

Policy Research Specialist

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Inc.

Washington, DC โ€ข On-site

$103 - $139/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

## Policy Research SpecialistApplylocations: US DC G St NWtime type: Full timeposted on: Posted 2 Days Agojob requisition id: JR5969Job Description Summary: This role contributes to the development, management and production of policy research that furthers the BCBS mission and drives policy solutions. Assists in the analysis of federal and state government policy proposals affecting the health care financing sector. Helps develop analyses and analytical models to conduct impactful research on public policy priorities in health financing, such as affordability for patients, consumers and public programs, provider reimbursement and prescription drug pricing. Supports, prepares and presents findings to drive impactful policy agenda forward.**Responsibilities include but are not limited to:*** Conduct qualitative and quantitative analyses to develop insights that will inform and drive health financing public policy that is consistent with the BCBSA mission.* Develop and manage system for tracking research projects from start to finish, including procurement, contracting, project milestones, and financing.* Manage a central site of all published research and analytical modeling performed both internally and by third party vendors and make it available for use by others in BCBSA.* Maintain comprehensive awareness of key health care financing topics and the broader business environment, with a focus on topics likely to impact health insurers and consumers.* Manage a monthly update for member companies and internal leadership to compile relevant and recent policy research, working closely with subject matter experts and team members across BCBSA to draft, edit and distribute.* Use expertise in quantitative and qualitative research to interpret and โ€œtranslateโ€ research findings into compelling and persuasive information for stakeholders, including senior executives.**The posting range for this position is:**102,640.18 - 138,805.26**Required Education, Certifications and Experience:** Education* Required Bachelor's Degree Political Science, Public Policy, Public Health, Economics, or a related discipline; or equivalent work experience* Preferred Master's Degree Public Policy, Public Health, Economics, Political Science, or a related disciplineExperience* Required 5+ Years Policy analysis and research, either through substantial projects in the classroom, internships, or paid workKnowledge Skills and Abilities* In-depth knowledge and expertise in using Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and other software used to prepare documents, and in analytic methods used in qualitative and quantitative analyses, including preparing literature reviews, and using statistical software packages.* Knowledge and expertise regarding health policy issues, economics, and statistics, which will be core skills for this position. Solid academic background in statistics and economics, and in using software supporting analysis in those fields, such as Excel, SAS, Stata, etc.* Understanding of the federal legislative process, regulation, and government programs.* Able to manage complex projects, working with colleagues throughout the organization, navigating administrative processes* Strong attention to deadlines and budgetary guidelines, tracking details, keeping to key timelines, and communicating appropriately with supervisor.* Ability to figure out answers to challenging analytical questions, including deciding on appropriate data sources, proper methods for using the data, and presentational questions and challenges.* Knowledge and understanding of Program budgeting and contracting process.* Presentation skills, both in producing slides and defending work.* Excellent writing, both for shorter documents, such as memos, as well as more extensive research documents.* Teamwork and close collaboration with colleagues is essential.* Ability to work with people from different professional backgrounds, both those with an understanding of policy analysis and those without.* Ability to manage through ambiguity and adapting to changing priorities.* Demonstrates AI literacy and an understanding of generative AI tools, including appropriate business applications and limitations.**Certifications & Licenses*** Preferred: Certified Project Management Professional (PMP) - PMI**Additional Preferred Experience:*** Working in a social science research environment, such as working for a think tank, government agency or trade association policy team.* Experience with Data Analytics, Data Science, Healthcare Claims Data#LI\_HYBRIDThe posted salary range is the lowest to highest salary we, in good faith, believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting. We may ultimately pay more or less than the hiring range and this hiring range may also be modified in the future. A candidateโ€™s position within the hiring range may be based on several factors including, but not limited to, specific competencies, relevant education, qualifications, certifications, relevant experience, skills, seniority, performance, shift, travel requirements, and business or organizational needs. This job is also eligible for *annual bonus incentive* pay.We offer a comprehensive package of benefits *including paid time off, 11 holidays, medical/dental/vision insurance, generous 401(k) matching, lifestyle spending account and many other benefits* to eligible employees.Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, or any other form of compensation that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Companyโ€™s sole discretion, consistent with the law. #J-18808-Ljbffr