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Public Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst

Queens, NY ยท On-site

$85K/yr

We're tackling a broad range of public health issues with innovative policies and programs and ... The Policy Analyst's duties will include but not be limited to the following: * Conduct research to ...

Policy Analyst - Health

Richmond, VA ยท On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

General Public - G Job Duties The Office of Governor Abigail Spanberger is seeking an organized, driven, collaborative, and hard-working team player to serve as a Policy Analyst. This position offers ...

Public Policy Director

Washington, DC ยท On-site +1

$134K - $164K/yr

The role provides expert analysis of policy challenges facing the LL/LD community, engages ... The Public Policy Director supports external communication strategies and public announcements ...

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

Amazon is seeking a Manager, Public Policy to assist in developing and coordinating fast-moving ... analyze employment and workforce policy developments at the federal level, identifying how ...

Bachelor's/HND or Master's degree in economics, public policy, development studies, or related field. * 2-4 years' experience in research, policy analysis, consulting, or related role. * Strong ...

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

The Manager, Public Policy will serve in a liaison capacity between Public Policy and multiple ... A day in the life You will research and analyze employment and workforce policy developments at the ...

Senior Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$95K - $113K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Business Administration, Public ... Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills. * Strong written and verbal ...

Bachelor's/HND or Master's degree in economics, public policy, development studies, or related field. * 2-4 years' experience in research, policy analysis, consulting, or related role. * Strong ...

Showing results 41-60

Public Policy Analyst information

See salary details

$37.5K

$98.2K

$145K

How much do public policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy analyst in the United States is $98,215.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $73,000.00 and $131,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public policy analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Policy Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and a background in public policy, economics, or political science, often supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, statistical software (such as SPSS or Stata), and policy management systems is typically required. Exceptional written and verbal communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities enable analysts to develop evidence-based recommendations, effectively communicate findings, and influence policy decisions.

What is a public policy analyst?

Public Policy Analysts are professionals who research, evaluate, and recommend policies to address public issues. They collect and analyze data, assess the effectiveness of current policies, and help shape new policies for government agencies, non-profits, or private organizations. Their work often involves preparing reports, advising decision-makers, and engaging with stakeholders to ensure policies are informed, effective, and equitable.

Is a public policy analyst entry-level?

Public policy analyst positions can be entry-level or require several years of experience, depending on the organization. Entry-level roles typically require a bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related fields, and may involve internships or research assistant experience. Advanced roles may require a master's degree or specialized skills in data analysis or policy evaluation.

What does a public policy analyst do?

As a public policy analyst, you research the effectiveness of legislation to help determine its actual effect and impact. Many public policy analysts specialize in specific areas of concern, such as education or public safety. In this role, you may use surveys to understand an issue better, take the initiative when deciding how to collect data, and otherwise measure both the impact and the awareness of passed and proposed legislation. Public policy analysts frequently work for the government, but occasionally work for think tanks, nonprofits, and other research institutions. Some public policy analysts write for newspapers or magazines, testify before legislative bodies, appear on news programs, or speak at conferences.

Is public policy a high paying job?

Public policy analysts typically earn median salaries that are moderate compared to other professional roles, with pay varying based on experience, education, and location. Senior positions or those in government agencies and consulting firms tend to offer higher compensation, often supplemented with benefits and job stability.

What is the difference between Public Policy Analyst vs Policy Advisor?

AspectPublic Policy AnalystPolicy Advisor
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsSimilar educational background; often requires experience in policy development
Work EnvironmentResearch-focused, analyzing data, preparing reportsAdvising policymakers, strategic communication
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsGovernment, political offices, consulting firms

While both roles involve policy work, Public Policy Analysts primarily focus on research and analysis, whereas Policy Advisors provide strategic recommendations and direct advice to policymakers. The roles often overlap but differ in their focus and responsibilities.

What are some common challenges public policy analysts face when working with diverse stakeholders?

Public Policy Analysts often navigate complex relationships between government agencies, advocacy groups, and the public, each with differing priorities and perspectives. Balancing these interests while ensuring data-driven, unbiased recommendations can be challenging. Analysts must possess strong communication and negotiation skills to facilitate consensus and address conflicting viewpoints effectively. Collaborating across sectors also requires adaptability and a thorough understanding of the political and social landscape surrounding the policies in question.

Is a public policy analyst a hard job?

A public policy analyst's job can be challenging due to the need for strong research, analytical skills, and understanding of complex policy issues. The role often involves tight deadlines, detailed report writing, and stakeholder communication, requiring critical thinking and attention to detail.
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Analyst job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy Analyst jobs? The most popular types of Public Policy Analyst jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Public Policy Analyst jobs? The top employers for Public Policy Analyst jobs are:
What states have the most Public Policy Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Analyst jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Policy Analyst jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Policy Analyst jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Public Policy Analyst jobs? For Public Policy Analyst jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Public Policy Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,215 per year, or $47.2 per hour.

Policy Analyst, Decarceration and Decriminalization

Southern Poverty Law Center

Atlanta, GA โ€ข On-site

$102K/yr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

The SPLC is seeking a Policy Analyst who is committed to reforming our criminal legal system!
The SPLC Policy team works to advance the SPLC's agenda with government officials, advocating policy, legal, and legislative recommendations in alignment with the SPLC's Impact Statement. Reporting to the Policy Research Manager, The Policy Analyst for Decarceration and Decriminalization is dedicated to creating compelling assets that build the case for dismantling systems of mass incarceration that especially impact Black and Brown people, including the school-to-prison pipeline, sentencing and parole reform, and the targeting of immigrant populations. Working closely with the SPLC's federal and state policy teams and other internal stakeholders, the Policy Analyst, Democracy and Decriminalization is responsible for conducting fact and policy research; producing excellent written policy research products, reviewing and analyzing data; and cultivating partnerships and collaborations with think tanks, academic institutions, and community partners to develop and advance policies to protect voting rights and expand democracy.
Who You Are
Experienced. Demonstrated experience in public policy with knowledge and advocacy expertise on issues related to criminal legal systems.
Effective Communicator. Ability to effectively communicate in writing and verbally.
Thoughtful and analytical. Ability to formulate research strategies and analyze data.
Efficient. Ability to effectively manage time while working in a fast-paced environment. Pivoting from one assignment to another to accomplish goals and the complete assignments.
Collaborative. Demonstrated ability to work with internal departments, external organizations, and stakeholders to execute specific policy research strategies to advance the work of the policy department.
Mission, Vision & Culture Alignment. Demonstrated awareness for SPLC's mission and vision; and a commitment to ideals of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and fostering an anti-racist work culture and antiracist principles and learning.
What You'll Do
Formulate the research strategy for SPLC's democracy policy analysis in our states and at the federal level, ensuring high-quality data analyses, development of evidence-based policy options, and effective public and policy-maker educational efforts aimed at changing state and federal law, policy and practice.
Produce high-impact publications (reports, white papers, etc.) related to trends in the criminal legal system and evaluations of policy reforms.
Collaborate with federal and state policy teams, the criminal legal system litigation team, Learning for Justice, the Intelligence Project, and other internal stakeholders to identify needs, develop strategies and implement work plans.
Collaborate with the Research Manager and federal/state policy teams, cultivate productive relationships and communication with a wide range of constituencies interested in criminal justice policy, including policymakers, government officials, researchers and advocates.
Support legislative advocacy by tracking and analyzing the impact of policy proposals and interpreting research and data for policymakers in coordination with other policy staff.
Provide real time support to the SPLC's policy team to deliver quick, accurate answers to emerging criminal legal system policy research questions.
Collaborate with federal and state policy teams, the Communications Department, SPLC programs, and internal stakeholders to develop communication strategies around campaigns and serve as spokesperson upon request.
Represent SPLC in various fora, including before community groups, policy makers, and agencies upon request.
Uphold our JEDIprinciples by seeking diverse collaborators and partners that can deliver genuine, authentic and impactful work while ensuring their contributions are directed towards the shared mission, vision and values of the center and department's goals.
Perform other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties in this job classification.
Minimum Qualifications
We are committed to equitable hiring practices; therefore you must meet the minimum qualifications to be considered for the role.
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in public policy, with a demonstrated knowledge in criminal legal systems, with a combination or experience, education and training that would provide the level of knowledge, skills and abilities required; and
  • Bachelor's Degree in Public Policy or related field.
Compensation & Benefits
This is an exempt role, and the minimum starting salary is $102,637 annually. Salary will be commensurate with experience.
Click here to view the benefits available to SPLC staff.
Where & How You'll Work
This role has the following work designation options:
  • Local Remote: Will work remotely, but is expected to attend work-related activities that occur at the SPLC offices or in the states in which the SPLC operates.
  • Telework: Will work at an SPLC office at least three days per week and may work two days per week from an alternative work location.
  • This position will report to the Policy Research Manager.
Other Special Considerations
This job is performed under general office conditions and is not subject to any strenuous physical demands or dangerous conditions.
This position is represented by the Washington-Baltimore News Guild.
Disclaimer:
The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by the employee in this position. These statements are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of a person in this position.
An Equal-Opportunity Employer with a Commitment to Diversity
Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and as an organization committed to diversity and the perspective of all voices, we consider applicants equally without regard to age, caregiver status, color, disability, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, gender identity, marital status, national origin, on the basis of genetic information, political affiliation, pregnancy, or veteran status.