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Public Policy Data Science Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Director Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$134K - $164K/yr

Experience in healthcare drug pricing, reimbursement, and/or health data, digital, or technology ... Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Public Health, Law, Political Science, or related field ...

Director Public Policy

Washington, DC

$134K - $164K/yr

Experience in healthcare drug pricing, reimbursement, and/or health data, digital, or technology ... Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Public Health, Law, Political Science, or related field ...

Director Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$134K - $164K/yr

Experience in healthcare drug pricing, reimbursement, and/or health data, digital, or technology ... Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Public Health, Law, Political Science, or related field ...

Social Work, Political Science, Public Policy or a related field ~and~ * At least 2 years of experience working in public policy, legislation, government, or nonprofit advocacy * Any equivalent ...

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA · On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

... using data and metrics to drive improvements - 5+ years of relevant public policy and advocacy ... experience - Experience in driving end to end delivery, and communicating results to senior ...

Director, Public Policy

Seattle, WA · On-site +1

$191K - $305K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Business Administration, or related field. Advanced degree preferred. * A minimum of 15 years of experience in public policy and operations ...

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Public Policy Data Science information

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$24K

$92.7K

$189K

How much do public policy data science jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy data science in the United States is $92,698.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,000.00 and $124,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Does the FBI hire data scientists?

Yes, the FBI employs data scientists in roles related to intelligence analysis, cybersecurity, and criminal investigations. These positions often require skills in data analysis, programming, and familiarity with tools like Python, R, or SQL, and may require security clearances. Data scientists at the FBI contribute to national security and law enforcement efforts through data-driven insights.

What is a Public Policy Data Science job?

A Public Policy Data Science job involves using data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning to inform policy decisions. Professionals in this field work with large datasets to identify trends, evaluate policy effectiveness, and provide evidence-based recommendations to governments, nonprofits, or think tanks. They often collaborate with policymakers and researchers to ensure that data-driven insights contribute to social and economic improvements. Strong skills in programming, data visualization, and policy analysis are essential for success in this role.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of someone working in Public Policy Data Science?

Professionals in Public Policy Data Science typically gather and analyze data to assess the impact of existing or proposed policies, create data-driven reports, and develop predictive models to forecast policy outcomes. They work closely with policymakers, program managers, and subject-matter experts to interpret findings and translate them into actionable recommendations. Day-to-day tasks may include cleaning datasets, performing statistical analyses, visualizing results, and presenting insights to stakeholders. Collaboration and clear communication are essential, as the role often bridges technical analysis and policy strategy to support evidence-based decisions.

What careers can you get with a public policy degree?

A public policy degree can lead to careers such as policy analyst, government advisor, legislative assistant, nonprofit manager, or data scientist in the public sector. These roles often require skills in research, data analysis, and understanding of policy processes, with some positions requiring familiarity with tools like statistical software or policy databases.

What is the 80 20 rule in data science?

In data science, the 80 20 rule, also known as the Pareto principle, suggests that roughly 80% of results come from 20% of the efforts or data. Public policy data scientists often use this concept to focus on the most impactful variables or datasets to improve analysis efficiency and decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Public Policy Data Science position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Public Policy Data Science, you need strong skills in data analysis, statistical modeling, and a background in public policy or social sciences, often attained through an advanced degree in a related field. Familiarity with tools like R, Python, SQL, and data visualization platforms, as well as certifications in data science or analytics, is frequently expected. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills help professionals convey complex findings to both technical and non-technical audiences. These skills are crucial for transforming data into actionable insights that inform effective policy decisions and drive positive societal outcomes.

What is data science for public policy?

Data science for public policy involves analyzing large datasets to inform decision-making and develop evidence-based policies. Public policy data scientists use statistical methods, machine learning, and data visualization tools to identify trends, evaluate programs, and support government or organizational objectives.
More about Public Policy Data Science jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Data Science jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Data Science job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy Data Science jobs? The most popular types of Public Policy Data Science jobs are:
What states have the most Public Policy Data Science jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Data Science jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Policy Data Science jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Policy Data Science jobs are:
Infographic showing various Public Policy Data Science job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $92,698 per year, or $44.6 per hour.
Technology and Public Policy Search (open rank)

Technology and Public Policy Search (open rank)

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Harvard University rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position
Details
Title
Technology and Public Policy Search (open rank)
School
Harvard Kennedy School
Department/Area
Position Description
Harvard Kennedy School invites applications for two open rank appointments in technology and public policy. We seek applications from scholars whose research and/or practice focuses on the intersection between emerging technologies and solving of public problems; tools, methods, and governance models to balance the societal and geopolitical opportunities and challenges technologies will create, or innovation, digital transformation, regulation, and other priority issues at the intersection of technology and public policy.
One position will focus on the application of new technologies to the solving of public problems. We are particularly interested in computer scientists or social scientists who harness tools of AI, data science, and computer science to improve the performance of public and social sector institutions in critical policy areas.
One position will focus at the intersection of science, technology, public policy, and global affairs. We seek scholars, practitioners, or technologists whose work explores how scientific and technological change shapes global affairs, and/or public policies and models of governance to address scientific and technological change. Fields of expertise could include, but would not be limited to, scientific innovation, technology development and deployment, global science and technology cooperation and competition, cybersecurity, biosecurity and biotechnology, nuclear issues, AI and autonomous systems, quantum technologies, space competition, critical-infrastructure resilience, and/or industrial and innovation policy. The successful candidate will be an affiliate of the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs.
Candidates for both positions should have a demonstrated interest in public or policy engagement and applying their perspectives to the practice of public policy. Applicants from academic backgrounds will require a doctorate or equivalent credential in a relevant field and a strong capacity to integrate methods and insights across disciplinary boundaries. Applicants who are policy practitioners or technologists will require extraordinary experience in their domain. Applicants should submit a cover letter and CV online at https://academicpositions.harvard.edu/postings/15561
Review of applications will begin December 1 and full consideration will be given to applications received before January 15th. We will consider applications until the position is filled.
Harvard University is committed to equal opportunity and non-discrimination. We seek talent from all parts of society and the world, and we strive to ensure everyone at Harvard thrives. Our differences help our community advance Harvard's academic purposes.
Harvard has an equal employment opportunity policy that outlines our commitment to prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, religion, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or identified in the university's non-discrimination policy. Harvard's equal employment opportunity policy and non-discrimination policy help all community members participate fully in work and campus life free from harassment and discrimination.
Basic Qualifications
Applicants from academic backgrounds will require a doctorate or equivalent credential in a relevant field and a strong capacity to integrate methods and insights across disciplinary boundaries. Applicants who are policy practitioners or technologists will require extraordinary experience in their domain.
Additional Qualifications
Special Instructions
Jr. Candidates - In addition to CV and cover letter, please include a research statement, sample papers and reference information.
Contact Information
Laura Medeiros
Contact Email
hksacademicpositions@hks.harvard.edu
Salary Range
165k - 310k
Minimum Number of References Required
Maximum Number of References Allowed
3
Keywords
technology
public policy
AI
data science

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