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Policy Researcher Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Chubb

Policy Search Associate

Richmond, IN

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 ...

Chubb

Policy Search Associate

Richmond, IN · On-site

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 ...

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolicy Researcher JobsPolicy Researcher Jobs in Indiana

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 24, 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:
Policy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in Indiana as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,624 per year, or $51.7 per hour.
Director of Research for Academics and Policy

Director of Research for Academics and Policy

NCAA

Indianapolis, IN • On-site

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

The Director of Research for Academics and Policy will develop and oversee research projects on the academic experiences of NCAA student-athletes and oversee surveys of the membership that inform legislation and education efforts. The director will take the lead in research design, analyses and serve as the primary communicator of findings to varied audiences. The Director of Research for Academics and Policy works directly with NCAA members, staff and other relevant parties to apply research insights to inform policymaking.
Job Responsibilities
  • Direct research projects related to student-athlete academic performance. This position, in conjunction with the Managing Director of Research, is responsible for directing research analysis of NCAA and national data, disseminating results, and informing policy on academic topics such as:
    • NCAA initial eligibility standards, progress-toward-degree standards and prediction of college academic success;
    • Academic impacts of transferring between four-year colleges;
    • Successful transfer from two-year colleges to NCAA member institutions;
    • Postgraduate retention and persistence;
    • Measurement of team-level and school-level academic success (through the development of metrics such as the Academic Progress Rate, Graduation Success Rate or Graduation Passport);
    • Impact of NCAA policies on student-athlete academic success, choice of majors, academic satisfaction and post-baccalaureate academic attainment;
    • Methods for detecting and reducing academic risk among student-athletes;
    • Benchmarking student-athlete academic trends (i.e., graduation rates, transfer rates) with the general student body; and
    • Any other relevant topic requested by NCAA committees, member institutions or affiliated groups (e.g., the National Association of Basketball Coaches).
  • Manage design, distribution, analyses and reporting of NCAA membership surveys designed to gather feedback about existing or proposed legislation and educational efforts.
  • Maintain a strong working knowledge of other NCAA research topics (e.g., characteristics of member schools, trends in institutional revenues and expenses, student-athlete wellbeing) that can inform other areas of research or policy discussions.
  • Cultivate personal and staff expertise in important topics in higher education policy that have relevance to NCAA policymakers (e.g., enrollment trends, long-term value of a college degree, student academic pathways, federal policies impacting higher education, transfer infrastructure/outcomes, campus support services).
  • Serve as key research connection and public presenter of research findings to NCAA governance bodies, executive staff members and the membership in the area of academic performance.
  • Support the Managing Director of Research to develop guidelines to facilitate the development of informed requests from governance committees and other areas of the national office.
  • Develop and enhance personal research skills as needed through independent study, collaboration with other staff and engagement with external scholars in the field.

Job Requirements
  • Education Required: Master's degree in psychology, education, statistics, analytics or related field, or master's degree with significant research experience. Doctoral degree preferred.
  • Advanced skills in quantitative research design, descriptive and inferential statistics, statistical software programming (e.g., R, SPSS, STATA), database creation and management, and production of graphical displays.
  • At least 5 years of experience in social science, educational or related policy research.
  • Experience working with large research databases. Familiarity with higher education enrollment data (e.g., NSC data, IPEDS data, institutional-level enrollment and persistence data) strongly preferred.
  • Familiarity with current issues in U.S. higher education.
  • Knowledge of the NCAA, its membership structure and current academic policy issues that can be informed through research.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, including the ability to communicate effectively to audiences with varied interests and technical backgrounds.
  • Experience conveying research findings to the public, lawmakers and media.
  • Demonstrated history of productivity as a researcher.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Willingness to take on a wide variety of tasks and responsibilities.
  • Ability to work well as a team member.
  • Estimated Travel Required <10%
  • This position will be based out of the national office in Indianapolis, Indiana. Current work environment is hybrid; 2 days in the office and 3 days are remote.

Job Competencies
  • Accountability | Holds self and others accountable for measurable high-quality, timely, and cost-effective results. Determines objectives, sets priorities, and delegates work. Accepts responsibility for mistakes. Complies with established control systems and rules.
  • Drives Vision and Purpose | Communicates a compelling picture of the vision and strategy that motivates others to action by: Talking about future possibilities in a positive way. Creating milestones and symbolizing support behind the vision. Showing personal commitment to the vision.
  • Effective Communication | Can exchange ideas, thoughts, opinions, knowledge, and data so that the message is understood with clarity and purpose.
  • Managerial Courage | Provides current, direct, complete, and "actionable" positive and corrective feedback to others, lets people know where they stand, faces up to people problems on any person or situation quickly and directly, is not afraid to take negative action when necessary.
  • Project Management | The discipline of planning, organizing, and managing resources to bring about the successful completion of a specific project.

Core Values
  • LEADERSHIP | We actively listen and continually strive to provide vital solutions, counsel and advocacy for student-athletes and intercollegiate athletics.
  • INCLUSION | We seek and incorporate different perspectives and experiences to drive innovation and impact.
  • COMMUNICATION | We commit to an environment of openness to build trust and make timely decisions.
  • COLLABORATION | We work together, based on mutual respect, to lead and serve our stakeholders.
  • ACCOUNTABILITY | We take ownership for our actions and results to add value every day.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
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About NCAA

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Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Indianapolis, IN, US

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