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Policy Researcher Jobs (NOW HIRING)

City of New York

Policy Director, Housing

Manhattan, NY · Hybrid

$129K - $158K/yr

Key Responsibilities - Lead the Office's policy research and oversight on housing affordability, housing production and preservation, tenant protections, homelessness, land use, and related issues ...

North Carolina Justice Center

Policy Analyst

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$57K - $67K/yr

The North Carolina Justice Center is seeking a Policy Analyst to support the organization's research, analysis, and advocacy efforts that advance its strategic priorities and policy initiatives. This ...

City of New York

Policy Advisor

Manhattan, NY

Under the direction of the Program Director, the Policy Advisor will conduct research and policy analysis, manage strategic initiatives, and coordinate across agencies and stakeholders to advance the ...

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Policy Researcher information

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$30K

$113.1K

$164.5K

How much do policy researcher jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 24, 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 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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $113,102 per year, or $54.4 per hour.
Policy Director, Housing

Policy Director, Housing

City of New York

Manhattan, NY • Hybrid

$129K - $158K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

City Of New York rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 79 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

530th of 703 rated public administrative organizations

Job description

Job Description

The Office of the New York City Comptroller serves as the City's chief fiscal steward, responsible for auditing City agencies, managing pension funds, overseeing contracts, and advancing policy solutions that promote equity, transparency, and effective government. Under Comptroller Mark Levine's leadership, the Office is focused on strengthening public systems, improving affordability, and delivering effective and equitable outcomes for all New Yorkers.
The Policy Director for Housing will lead the Comptroller's housing policy and oversight agenda, helping shape the Office's work to address New York City's housing affordability crisis.
Working as part of the Office's Policy Bureau, the Policy Director will independently lead complex policy initiatives, advise the Comptroller and senior leadership, develop innovative policy recommendations, and represent the Office before government agencies, stakeholders, and the public. The position will coordinate closely with Budget, Audit, Legal, Contracts, and the Bureau of Asset Management to advance the Office's housing priorities and strengthen accountability across City government.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the Office's policy research and oversight on housing affordability, housing production and preservation, tenant protections, homelessness, land use, and related issues.
- Independently manage complex research and policy projects from conception through publication and implementation.
- Develop strategic policy recommendations and advise the Comptroller and senior leadership on emerging housing issues.
- Produce major policy reports, testimony, public statements, briefing materials, and legislative analyses.
- Coordinate housing initiatives across Budget, Audit, Legal, Contracts, Bureau of Asset Management, and other bureaus.
- Work closely with the Bureau of Asset Management, which leads the Comptroller's housing investment initiatives, to ensure coordination across the Office's broader housing agenda.
- Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, government agencies, housing providers, advocates, researchers, philanthropic organizations, and other external stakeholders.
- Represent the Office in public meetings, conferences, legislative hearings, working groups, media briefings, and stakeholder convenings.
- Perform other related duties as may be required.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and five (5) or more years of professional experience in housing policy, urban planning, public policy research and analysis in government, nonprofit organization, academia, or a related area; or a satisfactory combination of education and experience equivalent to the above.
RESEARCH AND LIAISON COORDINAT - 13198

Qualifications

1. A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college with major in accounting, business administration, public relations, city planning, urban renewal, law, or a related field and three (3) years of satisfactory, full-time, responsible experience in housing, education, health services, planning, state-federal-city relations, or community relations involving administration or program development and evaluation; or
2. A satisfactory equivalent.

Additional Information

The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.

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