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Policy Think Tank Jobs in Utah (NOW HIRING)

Policy Think Tank information

See Utah salary details

$48.7K

$91.9K

$106.5K

How much do policy think tank jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for policy think tank in Utah is $91,901.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,600.00 and $106,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Policy Think Tank vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy Think TankPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsMaster's degree or higher in public policy, political science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's degree in similar fields
Work EnvironmentResearch institutes, non-profit organizations, or think tanks focused on policy researchGovernment agencies, consulting firms, or advocacy groups
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by policy research organizations to develop and analyze policiesEmployed by government or private sector to analyze and recommend policies

Policy Think Tanks and Policy Analysts both work within the policy development sphere, often requiring similar educational backgrounds. Think tanks focus on conducting research and producing policy reports, while Policy Analysts typically analyze existing policies and provide recommendations. Both roles are essential in shaping public policy but differ mainly in scope and organizational setting.

What is a policy think tank?

A policy think tank is a group of individuals who research public policy issues, interact with various ideas on how to improve policies, and come up with recommended solutions. It is a place to process ideas scientifically, research a topic, analyze a strategy, and create an agenda. A policy think tank may interact with advocacy groups but ultimately aims to generate new ideas rather than promoting reasons why policy change is needed. It can cover a wide variety of topics and works to make a difference in the community. Policy think tanks may utilize universities and scholars. They can also be a for-profit group funded by a business or organization.

What are some common challenges faced when working in a policy think tank environment?

Working in a policy think tank often involves juggling multiple projects with tight deadlines and adapting to rapidly evolving policy landscapes. Professionals must balance in-depth research with clear, accessible communication for diverse audiences, including policymakers, stakeholders, and the public. Collaboration is key, as teams frequently include experts from different disciplines, requiring strong interpersonal and project management skills. Additionally, staying up-to-date with current events and legislative changes is essential to ensure that research and recommendations remain relevant and impactful.

What is a policy think tank?

A policy think tank is an organization that conducts research and analysis on public policy issues. These organizations aim to inform and influence government decision-making, public debate, and policy development through studies, reports, and recommendations. Think tanks may focus on a range of topics including economics, social policy, defense, and the environment. They often employ researchers, analysts, and subject matter experts to provide evidence-based insights. Funding can come from governments, private donors, or foundations, and their work is often published for public or governmental use.

What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Think Tank jobs in Utah?

The most popular types of Policy Think Tank jobs in Utah are:

Infographic showing various Policy Think Tank job openings in Utah as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $91,901 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

Business Manager-Wheatley Institute

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New


Brigham Young University rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 88 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

337th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Why Work at BYU

As the flagship higher education institution of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Brigham Young University (BYU) strives to be among the exceptional universities in the world. At BYU, we are devoted to our faith and to our students. We take an active role in the University's Mission: "To assist individuals in their quest for perfection and eternal life."

Our unique mission, deeply rooted in the Gospel of Jesus Christ, provides countless ways to serve and make an impact. This, along with our remarkable culture of belonging, weekly devotionals, and endless opportunities for learning and growth-all situated within a beautiful and historic campus-make it an inspiring place to work.


Brigham Young University strongly prefers to hire faithful members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.


Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints must hold and be worth to hold a current temple recommend.

Business Manager - Wheatley Institute

The Wheatley Institute seeks a mission-driven Business and Operations Manager to oversee its financial, logistical, and administrative functions in support of BYU's mission to become a national thought leader on family, religion, human flourishing, and constitutional government. This critical position ensures accurate financial management, compliance with University policies, and efficient support of office, HR, and travel functions. The manager provides financial analysis and strategic recommendations to leadership, supervises support staff, and represents the Institute on University financial and HR councils. The ideal candidate will demonstrate exceptional organization, judgment, adaptability, and a strong commitment to BYU's mission and values.

What you'll do in this position:

Financial and Business Management

  • Manage all financial transactions, accounting processes, and reporting for the Wheatley Institute.

  • Implement and refine accounting and record-keeping in compliance with GAAP and University standards.

  • Prepare, review, and reconcile monthly and annual financial statements, journal entries, and budget amendments.

  • Analyze and interpret financial data and reports; provide fiscal guidance and recommendations to Institute leadership.

  • Manage development and execution of finance strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and processes in Workday

  • Manage monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reviews leveraging Workday reports to ensure accuracy

  • Ensure compliance and internal controls are properly followed by monitoring Workday workflows for approvals, spend authorizations, requisitions, journal entries, and budget amendments

  • Act as the Office Specialist and Spend Approver in Workday for the Wheatley Institute

  • Collaborate with Business Partner and university accountant to ensure accurate processes, reconciliations, and reports

  • Approve financial transactions and contracts involving both appropriated and donor funds.

  • Serve as liaison with the University designated Controller and other financial entities

  • Oversee and train staff in financial procedures (purchasing, travel, reconciliation, etc.).

  • Maintain donor records and ensure timely acknowledgment of contributions

  • Oversee the preparation and administration of annual contracts for on-campus and off-campus fellows, ensuring timely processing of stipends, research funding, and travel reimbursements.

  • Provide guidance on university policies and procedures, ensuring consistent understanding, compliance, and application

  • Represent the Wheatley Institute on the University Controller's Council.

Office, HR, and Organizational Management

  • Support managers in all phases of the hiring, onboarding, and termination processes for staff and student employees.

  • Support managers and oversee timekeeping and payroll accuracy.

  • Provide support and training to students, staff, and directorate on WorkDay system

  • Manage procurement and inventory of office supplies and equipment.

  • Oversee office systems and records management in compliance with University retention requirements.

  • Manage Institute space assignments, equipment tracking, and resource utilization.

  • Foster a professional, collaborative, and efficient work environment.

  • Represent the Wheatley Institute on the Human Resource Coordinators Council.

Travel Management

  • Coordinate and manage travel arrangements for Institute directors, staff, students, and guests in partnership with BYU Travel.

  • Prepare and approve travel authorizations, itineraries, reimbursements and reconciliation

  • Ensure compliance with University travel policies and timely processing of related expenses.

What qualifies you for this role:

Minimum education/experience required

Bachelor's degree and minimum of three years' experience with financial and office management

Preferred

Master's degree with significant work history in educational, think-tank, or non-profit setting and a demonstrated history of trustworthy fiduciary responsibility

Skills, abilities, knowledge, licenses, certifications

Commitment to the mission of BYU and the Wheatley Institute

Unimpeachable integrity and a strong sense of stewardship

High acumen with bookkeeping and financial reporting a mentoring and growth-oriented mindset

Initiative in identifying and seizing opportunities for fulfilling the mission

Excellent communication skills

Demonstrated ability to track and guide multiple lines of concurrent work

Demonstrated ability to prevent and solve problems

Superb discernment and judgment;

Commitment to excellence and customer service;

Well-developed sense of appropriate levels of conversation with the wide variety of people with whom this position interacts

Excellent communication skills

Preferred:

Familiarity and proficiency in BYU financial systems

What we offer in return:

This position comes with fantastic benefits, including:

  • 401k. BYU automatically contributes 8% at no cost to you. Additionally, if you contribute 5%, BYU adds an additional 4% (Rehires may qualify for different retirement plans)
  • Excellent work-life balance: 13 paid holidays + 22 days paid vacation + 12 sick days, accrued annually
  • Employee assistance program, available to the employee and all members of their household
  • Tuition benefits for employees and eligible family members
  • Access to athletic facilities
  • Excellent medical/dental benefits
  • Short/long-term disability benefits
  • Paid parental and maternity leave
  • Wellness Program
  • Free on-campus parking
  • Free UTA passes for employees, spouses, and qualified dependents
  • Discounts at the BYU Store and for many events at BYU

Pay Grade: 53

Typical Starting Pay: $73,000-$95,000

The actual compensation offered will take into consideration internal equity and may vary based on the candidate's job-related experience, knowledge, skills, and other relevant factors. Candidates with very significant work-related experience may receive an offer higher than the posted typical range.

Required Documents:

All Staff positions require a resume.

Refer to the Job Posting for any additional required documents.

Brigham Young University is an equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veteran status.


Brigham Young University (BYU) is widely recognized not just for its world-class education, but for its deep commitment to inspired religious values. Gathered together in a Christ-centered atmosphere, BYU employees are a vital part of a community of belonging, where we value the experiences, perspectives, and talents of each individual. If you share in our devotion to faith and to excellence, we have a place for you here at BYU!



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