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Policy Researcher Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

UX Researcher Contractor (Rapid Research / Sprint Support) On-Site Role Compensation: $60 per hour ... All employees receive the same benefits, policies, and terms of employment. EEO: We are committed ...

Perform the appropriate research steps and document results as per procedures * Perform document copying, policy assembly, and quality reviews as required * Be available to provide accurate and ...

Perform the appropriate research steps and document results as per procedures * Perform document copying, policy assembly, and quality reviews as required * Be available to provide accurate and ...

Facilitate policy-focused discussions between MISO and stakeholders on energy industry matters ... S. Through use of groundbreaking research and advanced technology, our highly skilled employees ...

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Policy Researcher information

See Indiana salary details

$28.5K

$107.6K

$156.5K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy researcher in Indiana is $107,624.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $63,800.00 and $146,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

Policy researchers typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are more common in executive roles, investment banking, or specialized medical fields. High-paying positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, or leadership responsibilities. For policy-related roles, top executive or consulting positions may reach this level with significant seniority.

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 political science, public policy, or a related field, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), data visualization tools, and academic databases is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and attention to detail set standout researchers apart. These skills are vital for producing accurate, actionable insights that inform policy decisions and drive effective advocacy.

What is a policy researcher?

A policy researcher is a professional who analyzes, evaluates, and develops public policies and programs. They use research methods, data analysis, and critical thinking to inform decision-making and often work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations.

What jobs pay 200,000 a year in the USA?

Policy researchers typically do not earn $200,000 annually, but senior roles such as policy directors, senior analysts, or consultants in government agencies, think tanks, or large organizations can reach or exceed this salary level. These positions often require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and strong analytical skills, and may involve leadership responsibilities or specialized expertise. High-paying roles in related fields include executive positions in policy or strategy, which often require a combination of experience, advanced education, and a proven track record.

What does a Policy Researcher do?

A Policy Researcher analyzes data, evaluates policies, and provides recommendations to help organizations or governments make informed decisions. They conduct research on social, economic, or political issues, gather and interpret data, and produce reports or briefing materials. Their work often involves staying updated on current policy debates, collaborating with stakeholders, and presenting their findings to decision-makers. Policy Researchers play a crucial role in shaping effective and evidence-based public policies.

What is the difference between Policy Researcher vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy ResearcherPolicy Analyst
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, think tanks, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily in research-focused roles within policy developmentInvolved in analyzing, developing, and recommending policies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding research roles in policyUnderstanding policy analysis and development roles

Policy Researchers focus on conducting in-depth research, data collection, and analysis to inform policy decisions. Policy Analysts interpret research findings, evaluate policy options, and develop recommendations for policymakers. While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in overlapping environments, Policy Researchers are more research-oriented, whereas Policy Analysts are more involved in applying research to policy formulation and advocacy.

What are some common challenges Policy Researchers face when translating complex findings into actionable recommendations?

Policy Researchers often grapple with distilling complex data and nuanced findings into clear, concise recommendations that are easily understood by policymakers and stakeholders. Balancing accuracy with accessibility can be challenging, as oversimplification may lead to misinterpretation, while too much detail can overwhelm decision-makers. Additionally, researchers must consider diverse stakeholder perspectives and ensure their recommendations are both practical and aligned with policy goals, often under tight deadlines. Developing strong communication skills and collaborating closely with policy analysts, subject matter experts, and advocacy teams can help address these challenges.

Is there a demand for policy analysts?

Policy researchers and analysts are in demand across government agencies, think tanks, and private organizations due to the need for data-driven decision-making and policy development. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as organizations seek expertise in analyzing and evaluating policies, often requiring strong research skills and familiarity with statistical tools. Job prospects can vary based on economic conditions and government funding levels.
What are popular job titles related to Policy Researcher jobs in Indiana? For Policy Researcher jobs in Indiana, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Policy Researcher jobs in Indiana look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Researcher jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Policy Researcher jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Policy Researcher job openings:
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in Indiana as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,624 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Policy Analyst

$125K/yr

Other

Posted 7 days ago


U.S. Department Of The Treasury rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 13 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

223rd of 668 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

WHAT IS TAXPAYER SERVICES?
A description of the business units can be found at: https://www.jobs.irs.gov/about/who/business-divisions
  • Position(s) are to be filled in following area(s):
    • Submission Processing Headquarters, Deputy Director's Office
  • This job (or announcement) is open to current permanent IRS competitive service employees in Taxpayer Services business units.
REVIEW THE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION BELOW FOR FURTHER DETAILSQualifications:

Federal experience is not required. Experience may have been gained in the public sector, private sector or through Volunteer Service. One year of experience refers to full-time work; part-timework is considered on a prorated basis. To ensure full credit for your work experience, please indicate dates of employment by month/day/year, and indicate number of hours worked per week, on your resume.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:
GS-14 Level:
You must have one year of specialized experience at a level of difficulty and responsibility equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the Federal service. Specialized experience for this position must include:

  • Managing multiple assignments that require a wide range of management and program oversight;
  • Performing analytical and evaluative methods and techniques to accomplish complex projects or studies broad in scope and magnitude;
  • Applying management principles and processes to perform project/program management duties and coordinating objectives and recommendations;
  • Contributing to the development and management of SharePoint tools, including the elicitation of requirements;
  • Identifying and resolving issues, including documenting issues, researching solutions, and recommending enterprise solutions;
  • Representing BOD for deployment of enterprise-level software upgrades;
  • Serving as the authoritative expert for ad-hoc technology questions;
  • Using oral and written communication to brief leadership on project status and prepare briefings.

AND
You must also meet the following requirement(s):

  • TIME AFTER COMPETITIVE APPOINTMENT (TACA): By the closing date (or if this is an open continuous announcement, by the cut-off date) specified in this job announcement, current civilian employees must have completed at least 90 days of federal civilian service since their latest non-temporary appointment from a competitive referral certificate, known as time after competitive appointment. For this requirement, a competitive appointment is one where you applied to and were appointed from an announcement open to "All US Citizens"
  • TIME IN GRADE (TIG): For positions above the GS-05,applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year (52 weeks) at the next lower grade level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the grade you are applying for. For positions at the GS-05, you cannot advance to the GS-05 if you have held a GS-02 in the past 52 weeks. There is no TIG restriction for GS-02, 03 or 04 positions.


For more information on qualifications please refer to OPM's Qualifications Standards.

Education:A college or university degree generally must be from an accredited (or pre-accredited) college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For a list of schools which meet these criteria, please refer to Department of Education Accreditation page.
FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying. Click here (Section 3, Explanation of Terms) or here for Foreign Education Credentialing instructions.
We recommend choosing an evaluator from a member organization of one of the following national associations of credential evaluation services: National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) or Association of International Credentials Evaluators (AICE).Employment Type: OTHER

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