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Policy Researcher Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

State of Virginia

Policy Analyst - Health

Richmond, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Conduct policy research and analysis on assigned issue areas. Monitor state and federal legislative, regulatory, and policy developments in real-time relevant to assigned issue areas. Review and ...

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All JobsPolicy Researcher JobsPolicy Researcher Jobs in Virginia

Policy Researcher information

See Virginia salary details

$29.7K

$112.1K

$163.1K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy researcher in Virginia is $112,132.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,400.00 and $152,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

What are popular job titles related to Policy Researcher jobs in Virginia?

For Policy Researcher jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Policy Researcher jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Researcher jobs in Virginia are:

Policy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 60% In-person, and 40% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $112,132 per year, or $53.9 per hour.

Public Policy Specialist - Energy and Environment (REMOTE role or Hybrid role based in Reston, Virgi

ICF International, Inc.

Reston, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

PUBLIC POLICY SPECIALIST - Energy and Environment
Are you interested in working on current and emerging energy and environmental policy issues? Do you want to apply your education and experience to help government agencies improve the way they develop and implement regulations, policies, and programs? Our Regulatory, Policy, and Economics portfolio has over 30 years of experience supporting the design, implementation, and improvement of Federal programs and is seeking a policy researcher to support clients like the Environmental Protection Agency, Department of the Interior, and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Join our multidisciplinary team of policy analysts, economists, attorneys, business analysts, scientists, and engineers. We combine legal, economic, engineering, and scientific research and analysis to solve unique public policy challenges through innovative, accurate, timely, and high-quality products and services. Our dynamic work environment involves working on multiple projects simultaneously, supporting a wide range of clients, and providing a wide range of support services.
The position will be REMOTE or have the option to be located in our Reston, Virginia headquarters with hybrid schedule.
Ideal candidates will combine a detail-oriented approach and effective organizational capabilities, excellent verbal and interpersonal skills, and equally strong research, writing, and editing skills to work with our Federal clients to support their development and implementation of policies and programs.
What you'll do
  • Interact directly with clients within the EPA, DOI, and NRC, among other agencies
  • Assist in compiling, drafting, formatting, and editing documents related to Federal agency rulemakings
  • Synthesize information from rulemaking documents, literature, and other technical reports
  • Analyze and summarize public comments on proposed rules
  • Attend intra-agency meetings and working groups and support document clearance processes
  • Assess the costs and benefits of proposed regulations
  • Draft reports, manuals, guidance, and regulatory language
  • Immerse oneself rapidly in varied projects for multiple clients
  • Provide other technical and administrative support to clients, as requested

Minimum Requirements
  • Master's Degree in engineering, environmental science, environmental policy, natural or physical science, public policy, government, or related subjects.
  • Bachelor's degree plus at least 2 years relevant experience will be accepted
  • U.S. Citizenship is required per Federal contracts
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a moderate-level government security clearance

Professional skills we're looking for
  • Excellent verbal, interpersonal, and written communications skills
  • Problem-solving skills with a strong attention to detail and organization
  • Ability to prioritize assignments and exercise time management to work on multiple tasks under strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment
  • Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment
  • Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint), MS Teams and SharePoint, and Adobe Acrobat

Preferred qualifications:
  • Academic or work experience in policy research and analysis
  • Demonstrated experience with technical writing and editing
  • Regulatory research skills
  • Understanding of the Federal rulemaking process

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Working at ICF
ICF is a global advisory and technology services provider, but we're not your typical consultants. We combine unmatched expertise with cutting-edge technology to help clients solve their most complex challenges, navigate change, and shape the future.
We can only solve the world's toughest challenges by building a workplace that allows everyone to thrive. We are an equal opportunity employer. Together, our employees are empowered to share their expertise and collaborate with others to achieve personal and professional goals. For more information, please read our EEO policy.
We will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Reasonable Accommodations are available, including, but not limited to, for disabled veterans, individuals with disabilities, and individuals with sincerely held religious beliefs, in all phases of the application and employment process. To request an accommodation, please email Candidateaccommodation@icf.com and we will be happy to assist. All information you provide will be kept confidential and will be used only to the extent required to provide needed reasonable accommodations.
Read more about workplace discrimination rights or our benefit offerings which are included in the Transparency in (Benefits) Coverage Act.
Candidate AI Usage Policy
At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.
However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.
Pay Range - There are multiple factors that are considered in determining final pay for a position, including, but not limited to, relevant work experience, skills, certifications and competencies that align to the specified role, geographic location, education and certifications as well as contract provisions regarding labor categories that are specific to the position.
The pay range for this position based on full-time employment is:
$60,967.00 - $103,643.00
Reston, VA (VA30)

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