ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Policy Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

TSNE

Research & Policy Intern

Southington, CT

The Research & Policy Intern should be interested in improving how schools in Connecticut are funded as well as generally increasing equity in the education finance space. This position is intended ...

TSNE

Research & Policy Intern

Southington, CT · On-site

The Research & Policy Intern should be interested in improving how schools in Connecticut are funded as well as generally increasing equity in the education finance space. This position is intended ...

Clean Air Task Force

Policy Associate, Fusion Policy

$85K - $106K/yr

Policy Associate, Fusion Policy Reports to: Global Director, Fusion Energy Location: Remote ... This is accomplished through research and analysis, public advocacy leadership, and partnership ...

New

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPolicy Researcher Jobs

Policy Researcher information

See salary details

$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy researcher in the United States is $113,102.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $67,000.00 and $154,000.00 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.
More about Policy Researcher jobs
What cities are hiring for Policy Researcher jobs? Cities with the most Policy Researcher job openings:
What states have the most Policy Researcher jobs? States with the most job openings for Policy Researcher jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Policy Researcher jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Researcher jobs are:
Policy Researcher jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Researcher job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 92% Full Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Temporary Researcher, National Education Policy Center

Temporary Researcher, National Education Policy Center

University of Colorado

Boulder, CO • On-site

$34.84/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

University Of Colorado rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

149th of 535 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Job Summary
The National Education Policy Center (NEPC) seeks a Temporary Researcher to provide research and project support for the Stuart Foundation Strategic Learning Project and the annual NEPC Fellows Meeting. This temporary, 35% FTE appointment is anticipated to run from June 15, 2026, through mid-September 2026 and will contribute to ongoing research and analysis related to California education policy, support strategic learning activities, and assist with planning and coordination efforts for key project deliverables and events.
The successful candidate will work both independently and collaboratively with the research team to synthesize information, conduct analyses, track findings, and support communication and coordination efforts with project stakeholders.
Given the accelerated timeline and specialized nature of this project, preference will be given to candidates with demonstrated experience working on projects funded by the Stuart Foundation, familiarity with the Foundation's strategic priorities, and knowledge of the California education policy landscape. Existing relationships and experience within these areas will enable the successful candidate to contribute immediately to project objectives and support the team's efforts to meet and exceed funder expectations.
CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.
Who We Are
Our mission in the School of Education at the University of Colorado Boulder aims to center democracy, diversity, equity, and justice as the heart of educational research and practice. With that guiding vision, the work of our faculty, researchers, staff, and students contributes to evidence-based policy and practice, and we strive to engage with our colleagues in schools and communities to make a transformative difference in our schools and society. Our graduates are engaged and informed educators, researchers, policymakers, and community leaders.
We offer groundbreaking, engaging teacher preparation, innovative undergraduate programs, and Colorado's top-ranked graduate education in multiple program areas: Educational Foundations, Policy & Practice, Equity, Bilingualism & Biliteracy, Learning Sciences & Human Development, Literacy Studies, Research, Evaluation & Methodology, STEM Education, and Teacher Learning, Research, and Practice.
What Your Key Responsibilities Will Be
  • Conduct research and analysis of California education policy publications and related materials.
  • Develop and apply an understanding of Stuart Foundation priorities within the California education policy landscape.
  • Prepare written analyses, summaries, and research briefs.
  • Maintain and track project analyses and deliverables using shared software and project management tools.
  • Work independently while maintaining regular communication and calibration with the NEPC research team.
  • Assist with planning and preparation for the annual NEPC Fellows Meeting.
  • Manage communications with fellows and project participants.
  • Synthesize information from multiple sources to support project goals and reporting requirements.
  • Provide general research and project support as needed to ensure successful completion of project objectives.

What You Should Know
  • This is a temporary, grant-funded appointment at 35% FTE.
  • The position is expected to begin on June 15, 2026, and conclude in mid-September 2026.
  • Continuation beyond the anticipated end date is not expected and is contingent upon project needs and available funding.

What We Can Offer
The hourly rate for this temporary, part-time position is $34.84.
Benefits
Temporary positions at the University of Colorado are not benefits-eligible, however, all positions are eligible for paid sick leave .
Be Statements
Be ambitious. Be inspired. Be Boulder.
What We Require
  • PhD degree in education, public policy, social sciences, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Experience conducting policy research, analysis, and synthesis.
  • Strong written communication and organizational skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities within established timelines.
  • Experience collaborating with research teams and stakeholders.
  • Experience working with the CU Boulder School of Education.

What We Would Like You to Have
  • Knowledge of California education policy and policy-relevant research.
  • Experience supporting grant-funded research projects.
  • Familiarity with foundation-funded initiatives and strategic learning projects.
  • Experience planning meetings, convenings, or stakeholder engagement activities.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to synthesize complex information for diverse audiences.

Special Instructions
To apply, please submit the following materials:
  1. A current Resume/CV.
  2. Optional : Transcripts/Proof of Degree - If you are selected as the finalist, your degree will be verified by the CU Boulder Campus Human Resources department using an approved online vendor. If your degree was obtained outside of the United States, please submit a translated version (if applicable) as an optional attachment.

We may request references at a later time.
Please apply by June 5th, 2026 for consideration.
Note: Application materials will not be accepted via email. For consideration, please apply through CU Boulder Jobs .

What University Of Colorado employees say

Pay

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply