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Policy Researcher Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

LinQ Global

Housing Code Policy Manager

Boston, MA

$32/hr

The role will focus on researching building codes, developing policy recommendations, working with stakeholders, and preparing code-change proposals. Key Responsibilities * Lead research and analysis ...

Point32Health

Payment Policy Analyst

Canton, MA · On-site

$63K - $95K/yr

Research proposed policies and policy changes by accurately defining financial impact. * Development and ongoing maintenance of payment policies * Utilize comprehensive coding knowledge of CPT, HCPCS ...

Point32health

Payment Policy Analyst

Canton, MA · Hybrid

$63K - $95K/yr

Research proposed policies and policy changes by accurately defining financial impact. * Development and ongoing maintenance of payment policies * Utilize comprehensive coding knowledge of CPT, HCPCS ...

MIT Human Resources

Senior Policy Manager

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$118K - $127K/yr

SENIOR POLICY MANAGER , Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab , will support senior staff to create ... competitive research fund; develop in-depth knowledge of one of J-PAL's sectors; and provide ...

MIT Human Resources

Policy Manager - AI & Health

Cambridge, MA · On-site

$118K - $127K/yr

The Policy & Communications Group plays a key role in translating research by J-PAL affiliates into actionable poverty alleviation policies around the world. Staff connect the dots between economics ...

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Fiscal Policy Analyst

Boston, MA · On-site

$107K - $126K/yr

Fiscal Policy Analysts work on a wide array of fiscal and budgetary matters that come before the ... Excellent research, analytical and interpersonal skills; Excellent writing and communication skills ...

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All JobsPolicy Researcher JobsPolicy Researcher Jobs in Boston, MA

Policy Researcher information

See Boston, MA salary details

$32.7K

$123.2K

$179.2K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy researcher in Boston, MA is $123,207.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $167,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 popular job titles related to Policy Researcher jobs in Boston, MA?

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

What job categories do people searching Policy Researcher jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Researcher jobs in Boston, MA are:

Policy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,874 per year, or $59.1 per hour.

Policy Analyst

University of Massachusetts Medical School

Westborough, MA

$65K - $77K/yr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Job description

GENERAL SUMMARY OF POSITION: 

Under the general direction of an Associate, Senior Associate or Principal, the Policy Analyst is responsible for supporting the policy analysis, writing and research activities by identifying, obtaining, organizing and analyzing quantitative and qualitative data, reviewing academic and professional literature, and gathering information from multiple sources on the costs, utilization, quality and access to health care and human services.


MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Perform policy and data analyses of health care and human services topics and issues, which will typically require an understanding of the project’s goals, the policy context, and the ability to combine and synthesize data and information from multiple sources. May assist with complex analyses.  
  • Prepare written summaries and reports of policy and data analyses and provide input to written reports and other materials in easily understood formats for both internal and external distribution. Prepare charts, graphs, tables, and presentations.  May draft written reports.
  • Obtain data and information from a wide variety of sources, including federal agencies, state agencies, insurers, health care providers, human services providers, academic and professional journals, professional organizations, foundations, news outlets, blogs, consulting project clients and consulting project partners.
  • Assess the quality of the data obtained by analyzing the data for missing data and/or inconsistencies and, as needed, assist with the development and implementation of methods to improve the quality of the data by obtaining missing values, resolving inconsistencies or excluding selected data from analyses.
  • Organize data by constructing databases and spreadsheets and organize qualitative information in a manner that facilitates its use for policy analysis.
  • Assist in identifying sources of data and information relevant to specific analytic projects on health care and human services topics and issues.
  • Perform other duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Master’s degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. public policy, law, public health, health economics, public or business administration with a concentration in health care); or equivalent.
  • One (1) year of related work experience. Required work experience may include internships or research assistant roles requiring analysis, writing or research.
  • Demonstrated ability to conduct thoughtful and accurate analysis, research and writing in a relevant discipline.
  • Demonstrated ability to produce thorough, accurate results and to meet project milestones and deadlines.
  • Excellent quantitative and qualitative policy research and analytical skills.
  • Excellent analytical and writing skills as demonstrated in writing sample and past analytical work.
  • Excellent oral communication skills.
  • Ability to learn new issues quickly.
  • Ability to take initiative on assignments and work independently.
  • Demonstrated expertise in computer based tools, including spreadsheets, database management, work processing, and presentation software.
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain harmonious working relationships with others at all levels of responsibility

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Knowledge of the Massachusetts health care system and current health care policy issues.
  • Knowledge of federal and state legislative, regulatory and policymaking processes.
  • Knowledge of health care payment methods.
  • Experience presenting complex data, analyses and information in easily understood formats.
  • Experience in using statistical software, such as SAS.
  • Experience writing project proposals, grants, vendor contracts and other types of business proposals at the local, state and/or federal level or conducting a procurement initiative at a state agency or foundation.
  • Excellence in work performance, as evidenced by letters of reference or awards for performance or similar indicators.

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