1

Public Policy Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$136K - $166K/yr

Essential Duties) Public Policy Research & Analysis * Monitor, research, and analyze federal legislation, regulatory proposals, and budgetary actions relevant to the organizations mission and ...

Director Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$134K - $164K/yr

Director Public Policy Location: Washington, DC (REQUIRED) Onsite/Remote/Hybrid: Onsite position ... Familiarity with AI-enabled research, productivity, or workflow tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot ...

Under general supervision, the Public Policy Associate supports the execution of ACCESS' public policy agenda through research, analysis, relationship building, and participation in relevant ...

Under general supervision, the Public Policy Associate supports the execution of ACCESS' public policy agenda through research, analysis, relationship building, and participation in relevant ...

Under general supervision, the Public Policy Associate supports the execution of ACCESS public policy agenda through research, analysis, relationship building, and participation in relevant democracy ...

Director Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$134K - $164K/yr

Director Public Policy Location: Washington, DC (REQUIRED) Onsite/Remote/Hybrid: Onsite position ... Familiarity with AI-enabled research, productivity, or workflow tools (e.g., Microsoft Copilot ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Public Policy Research information

See salary details

$25K

$70.3K

$135K

How much do public policy research jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy research in the United States is $70,320.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,000.00 and $83,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities for someone working in public policy research?

In a public policy research role, your daily activities may include gathering and analyzing data, reviewing existing policies, preparing detailed reports, and synthesizing research findings to support policy recommendations. You will often collaborate with other researchers, policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and subject matter experts. Attending conferences, conducting interviews, and staying updated on relevant legislation and policy trends are also common. The work is typically a balance of independent research and teamwork, ensuring accurate, actionable insights that drive decision-making.

What is a Public Policy Research job?

A Public Policy Research job involves analyzing government policies, social issues, and economic trends to provide insights and recommendations for decision-makers. Researchers gather and assess data, conduct qualitative and quantitative studies, and produce reports to inform policy development. They may work for government agencies, think tanks, nonprofits, or private organizations to evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies and propose improvements. Strong analytical, research, and communication skills are essential in this field.

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

A successful Public Policy Research professional needs strong analytical skills, research experience, and a background in public policy, political science, economics, or a related field. Familiarity with statistical analysis software, data visualization tools, and academic research databases is commonly required. Effective communication, critical thinking, and collaboration are crucial soft skills for conveying findings and working with diverse stakeholders. These abilities are integral for generating evidence-based recommendations that inform and shape impactful policy decisions.

More about Public Policy Research jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Research jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Research job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Public Policy Research jobs? The most popular types of Public Policy Research jobs are:
What states have the most Public Policy Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Public Policy Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,320 per year, or $33.8 per hour.
Director, SSU Institute for Appalachian Public Policy

Director, SSU Institute for Appalachian Public Policy

Shawnee State University

Portsmouth, OH • On-site

$69K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

Salary: $69,380.00 - $78,052.00 Annually
Location : 940 Second St. Portsmouth, OH 45662, OH
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: POS-755
Division: Executive Affairs
Opening Date: 11/21/2025
Closing Date: Continuous
Job Description Summary
The Director, Institute for Appalachian Public Policy's mission and purpose is to develop, implement, and oversee a public policy research apparatus aimed at prioritizing research, data, and recommendations to advance Appalachian Ohio's socio-economic development and public health; develop and implement a public policy internship program for SSU students; and develop and coordinate IAPP Conferences/Symposiums.
Principal Duties and Responsibilities
FUNCTIONS:
  1. Direct the Appalachian Ohio public policy research apparatus
  2. Coordinate IAPP Conferences/Symposiums
  3. Lead the Bears on the Square government and public policy internship program for SSU students
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  1. Direct the Appalachian Ohio public policy research apparatus
    1. Conduct contract, and produce actionable research, utilizing visiting faculty, SSU students, and institute fellows
    2. Interface with policy makers, corporate and NGO leadership at the federal, state, and local level to develop and maintain a dynamic policy agenda involving education, economic workforce development, health care, and addiction/recovery, with future topics to be developed
    3. Deliver research to support SSU and the SSU grants operation, community and regional partners, and contribute to regional and national conversation on Appalachian Ohio topics
  1. IAPP Conferences/Symposiums
    1. Plan and execute all aspects of IAPP conferences/symposiums
    2. Follow up and analyze conferences/symposiums for continuous improvement
  1. Lead the Bears on the Square government and public policy internship program for SSU students
    1. Competitive application in spring to name 2-4 SSU Appalachian Public Policy Scholars
    2. Fall orientation and training program
    3. Spring advocacy visits with SSU leadership to regional, state, and federal government officials

Minimum Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  1. Ability to conduct actionable, peer-reviewed research and analyze and evaluate data
  2. Initiative and creativity in project development
  3. Strong project management skills
  4. Ability to establish and maintain meaningful relationships with university partners, scholars, thought leaders, and policy-makers at all levels

Minimum Qualifications
  1. MBA or Masters in Social Sciences required
  2. 5+ years' experience in government relations, state and Appalachian policy in the areas of higher education, college access, rural health care, and rural economic and workforce development issues
  3. Experience and research emphasis in Ohio and Appalachian Ohio is preferred

Shawnee State University offers a competitive starting salary (commensurate with overall qualifications) including an attractive benefits package. See Overview of Employee Benefits for more information. Some of our benefits include:
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Winter Break in December
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Tuition Waiver
  • Life Insurance
  • Retirement Plans