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Public Policy Manager Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Amazon

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA · On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

The Manager, Public Policy will serve in a liaison capacity between Public Policy and multiple business partners. They will develop and execute government affairs advocacy objectives and political ...

Amazon

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA · On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

Amazon is seeking a Manager, Public Policy to assist in developing and coordinating fast-moving policy strategy in support of Amazon's commitment to Strive to Be Earth's Best Employer. You will ...

Amazon

Manager, Public Policy

Arlington, VA · On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

Amazon is seeking a Manager, Public Policy to develop and execute the company's federal and state public policy efforts related to digital trust and safety issues. You will be responsible for ...

NABCA

Public Policy Research Intern

Arlington, VA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

The individual selected for this role will have opportunities to meet exceptionally talented managers and colleagues throughout the organization. Duties: The Public Policy Intern performs the ...

CONSERVATION INTERNATIONAL

$136K - $166K/yr

Senior Manager, Ocean Policy Conservation International protects nature for the benefit of humanity ... public and private sectors and civil society. * Excellent written and oral communication skills ...

IQVIA

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA

S. public policy and government affairs strategy. This senior leader will operate at the ... Experience managing relationships with trade associations, industry groups, and external ...

IQVIA

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA · On-site

S. public policy and government affairs strategy. This senior leader will operate at the ... Experience managing relationships with trade associations, industry groups, and external ...

IQVIA, Inc.

VP, Public Policy

Falls Church, VA · On-site

S. public policy and government affairs strategy. This senior leader will operate at the ... Experience managing relationships with trade associations, industry groups, and external ...

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All JobsPublic Policy JobsPublic Policy Manager JobsPublic Policy Manager Jobs in Virginia

Public Policy Manager information

See Virginia salary details

$52.5K

$130.6K

$144.7K

How much do public policy manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy manager in Virginia is $130,562.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,500.00 and $143,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public policy manager do?

A public policy manager is a broad descriptor that can relate to many different areas, as there are a lot of varying sectors of public policy. Generally speaking, a public policy manager is responsible for working within the government to dictate how legislative actions are implemented. Your duties in this career can also involve interaction with the public, such as providing a query response to questions asked regarding specific policy implementations. A public policy manager directs the actions of regulatory departments to provide for the adequate application of governmental policies.

What does a public policy manager do?

A Public Policy Manager is responsible for analyzing, developing, and advocating for policies that align with an organization's goals and interests. They monitor legislative and regulatory developments, build relationships with policymakers, and create strategies to influence public policy decisions. This role often involves collaborating with internal teams, external partners, and government officials to ensure the organization's voice is heard in the policy-making process.

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

To thrive as a Public Policy Manager, you need a strong background in policy analysis, political science, or public administration, often supported by an advanced degree and experience in government or advocacy. Familiarity with policy research tools, legislative tracking systems, and data analysis software is commonly required. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills help build consensus and influence decision-makers. These skills are crucial for effectively shaping policies, navigating complex regulatory environments, and advancing organizational goals.

How does a public policy manager typically collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to advance organizational goals?

A Public Policy Manager frequently works cross-functionally, partnering with internal teams such as legal, communications, and government affairs to develop unified policy positions. Externally, they engage with government officials, industry groups, and advocacy organizations to represent their organization's interests and build coalitions. Effective collaboration often involves coordinating meetings, preparing briefing materials, and ensuring consistent messaging across all channels. This role requires strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, as balancing diverse perspectives is key to advancing policy objectives.

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

AspectPublic Policy ManagerPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; often some experience in policy or government rolesBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; research and analytical skills emphasized
Work EnvironmentLeads teams, manages projects, interacts with stakeholders, and develops policy strategiesConducts research, analyzes data, prepares reports, and provides policy recommendations
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, nonprofits, advocacy groups, and corporations involved in policy developmentThink tanks, government offices, research institutions, and consulting firms

In summary, Public Policy Managers oversee policy initiatives and manage teams, while Policy Analysts focus on research and analysis to inform policy decisions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

More about Public Policy Manager jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Public Policy jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Public Policy Manager jobs in Virginia?

For Public Policy Manager jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Public Policy Manager jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Public Policy Manager jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Public Policy Manager jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Public Policy Manager job openings:

Public Policy Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Manager job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,562 per year, or $62.8 per hour.

Public Policy Manager, National Security Institute

George Mason University

Arlington, VA • On-site

$136K - $166K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

George Mason University rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

130th of 627 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Department: Antonin Scalia Law School
Classification: Program Admin Specialist 1
Job Category: Classified Staff
Job Type: Full-Time
Work Schedule: Full-time (1.0 FTE, 40 hrs/wk)
Location: Arlington, VA
Workplace Type: On Site Required
Sponsorship Eligibility:
Pay Band: 04
Salary: Salary commensurate with education and experience
Restricted: Yes
Criminal Background Check: Yes
About the Department:
The National Security Institute (NSI) aims to be the intellectual powerhouse supporting a robust American national security posture-dedicated to incorporating a realistic assessment of the threats facing the United States and finding real-world answers to hard national security questions-and we also strive to educate the next generation of leaders.
About the Position:
The NSI Public Policy Manager is responsible for the successful planning and coordination of NSI policy program efforts and events. This position is expected to work flexible hours, and travel domestically and internationally as needed.
Responsibilities:
  • Builds relationships with Congressional staff, Congressional members and executive branch officials, associations, industry partners, nonprofits, and other third-parties to promote and build support for NSI's mission and policy expertise through both regular in person and virtual meetings and engagements, both informal and formal;
  • Independently represents NSI before Congressional and executive branch officials and staff in briefings and in other settings, as well as in front of industry and nonprofit partners;
  • Works with NSI leadership to identify and develop organizational policy priorities, including assessing organizational resources and the needs and interests of the policy field;
  • Manages the development and execution of programs, including private briefings, and off-the-record and public events that advance NSI's mission, as well as work with NSI staff to ensure successful marketing and communications efforts;
  • Creates, develops, and disseminates policy materials, as well as brainstorms new forms of written materials, to policymaking and public audiences;
  • Leads and coordinates NSI expert participation and engagement in NSI policy programming, including managing whiteboarding sessions, expert briefings, and external policy programming efforts;
  • Manages program and project budget and coordinates other necessary administrative support;
  • Interacts with NSI leadership and staff, as well as media, the general public, and government officials to plan and coordinate activities;
  • Supports NSI team in all aspects of NSI's work;
  • Assists with research, writing, and publishing NSI research and advocacy papers, as well as media pieces and other written materials; and
  • Reviews and analyzes regulations, legislation, laws, and public policy that informs and impact NSI's policy priorities, including managing the tracking of legislative and congressional developments.

Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience;
  • Considerable policy experience (typically 3+ years);
  • Strong database experience;
  • Knowledge of national security policy and familiarity with defense, intelligence, or cyber policy communities;
  • Demonstrated, advanced skill in written and oral communication;
  • Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office suite;
  • Demonstrated organizational skills, with the ability to independently juggle multiple tasks and priorities effectively;
  • Ability to interact effectively and respectfully with persons at all levels, including senior government, industry, and academic officials, in a professional manner and in different settings; and
  • Self-starter, highly motivated, and detail oriented.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Master's degree in related field; and
  • Experience working on Capitol Hill and/or with Congressional offices.

Instructions to Applicants:
For full consideration, applicants must apply for the Public Policy Manager, National Security Institute at https://jobs.gmu.edu/. Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a cover letter and resume.
Posting Open Date: May 6, 2026
For Full Consideration, Apply by: May 20, 2026
Open Until Filled: Yes
Mason Ad Statement
George Mason University is a nationally ranked R1 research university committed to creating a more just, free, and prosperous world. With 40,000 enrolled students, George Mason is the largest and most diverse public research university in Virginia, offering degree programs at the master's, doctoral, and professional level, along with certificates and credentials.
George Mason fosters an All Together Different environment for students, faculty, and staff, driven by our core beliefs. We believe in inclusivity over exclusivity; we believe in advancing our mission by being willing to take risks, not avoiding them; and we believe our best work is possible when we apply our diversity of origin, identity, circumstance, and thought.
Equity Statement
George Mason University is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, committed to promoting inclusion and equity in its community. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any characteristic protected by law.
Campus Safety Information
Mason's Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is available at http://police.gmu.edu/annual-security-report/

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