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Public Policy Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Amputee Coalition

Public Policy Director

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$134K - $164K/yr

The Public Policy Director will advance the Amputee Coalition's mission through its legislative and ... Lead key organizational policy initiatives and programs, through policy research, legislative ...

Amputee Coalition

Public Policy Director

Washington, DC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

The Public Policy Director will advance the Amputee Coalition's mission through its legislative and ... Lead key organizational policy initiatives and programs, through policy research, legislative ...

The Georgetown University

Requirements Job Overview Temporary Part-Time Research Assistant, Economic Dignity Lab, McCourt School of Public Policy - Georgetown University. The Economic Dignity Lab develops evidence-based ...

Tencent

Associate, Global AI Policy

Palo Alto, CA

Partner with internal teams across public affairs, legal, compliance, product, engineering, and research functions. * Assist with the development of policy positions, consultation responses, and ...

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 ... Understanding the big picture, connecting the dots, and diving deep in research will be essential ...

Robert Half

Policy Analyst

Hanover, MD · Remote

$30/hr

Stay current on global policy trends, emerging regulations, and legislative activity. * Assist with ... Experience working with regulatory intelligence, public affairs, or policy research initiatives.

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Public Policy Research Assistant information

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$58

How much do public policy research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for public policy research assistant in the United States is $28.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of projects do Public Policy Research Assistants typically work on, and how do they contribute to policy development?

Public Policy Research Assistants often support projects such as legislative analysis, policy impact assessments, and stakeholder interviews. Their responsibilities may include gathering and synthesizing data, drafting reports, and preparing briefing materials for senior analysts or policymakers. By providing accurate research and clear summaries, they help inform decision-making and ensure that recommendations are evidence-based. Collaboration with team members, including policy analysts and external experts, is common, offering valuable exposure to the policy-making process and opportunities for professional growth.

What does a Public Policy Research Assistant do?

A Public Policy Research Assistant supports policy analysts and researchers by gathering, analyzing, and summarizing data related to public policies and government programs. Their responsibilities include conducting literature reviews, compiling statistics, preparing reports, and helping draft policy recommendations. They may also assist with organizing events, tracking legislative developments, and communicating findings to various stakeholders. This role is essential in ensuring research accuracy and providing foundational information for policy decisions.

What is the difference between Public Policy Research Assistant vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPublic Policy Research AssistantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch institutions, government agencies, think tanksGovernment agencies, consulting firms, advocacy organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily research-focused roles supporting policy developmentAnalyzing, developing, and recommending policies based on research

Public Policy Research Assistants typically support policy research through data collection and analysis, while Policy Analysts interpret research findings to develop policy recommendations. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in related environments, but Policy Analysts tend to have more responsibility for policy formulation and strategic decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Public Policy Research Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Public Policy Research Assistant, you need strong analytical skills, research proficiency, and a background in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools (such as Excel, SPSS, or Stata), academic databases, and sometimes experience with survey platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, written communication, and the ability to work collaboratively are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are essential for producing accurate, impactful research that informs effective policy recommendations and supports organizational goals.
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Public Policy Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,830 per year, or $28.3 per hour.
KAP 2026-2027 - Research Associate/Assistant - Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity

KAP 2026-2027 - Research Associate/Assistant - Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity

Stand Together

Washington, DC • Hybrid

$45K - $60K/yr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

The Koch Associate Program (KAP) is a career accelerator for early to mid-career professionals with a drive to tackle our country's most pressing challenges in more effective, principled ways. KAP equips associates with the tools, mindsets, and community to succeed as social entrepreneurs-individuals excited to find new and better ways to break barriers and eliminate injustice. Associates spend one day each week engaging in experiential learning with Stand Together Fellowships and work at one of our many partner organizations the rest of the week. Our curriculum is designed to supercharge your development and equip you for long-term success as you seek to have an impact on the problems that prevent people from realizing their potential.  

About FREOPP 

The Foundation for Research on Equal Opportunity (FREOPP) is a nonprofit think tank that produces policy research and practical implementation strategies designed to expand opportunity for Americans who need it most.

FREOPP advances policy ideas that:

  • address the needs of individuals with wealth or income below the national median;
  • have the potential to earn bipartisan support; and
  • increase individual liberty.

Through rigorous analysis and practical implementation strategies, FREOPP develops durable policy solutions across healthcare, welfare reform, child welfare, housing, K-12, higher education, and more that expand opportunity and strengthen individual agency.

Position Summary:

FREOPP seeks a full-time research assistant or associate (depending on experience) to support FREOPP's policy research, with a focus on safety net reform, workforce development, child welfare, and housing, as well as other opportunity issues.

This role is ideal for an early-career professional who is eager to become an established policy professional in this space.

The Research Assistant/Associate may work virtually from anywhere in the United States, though preference will be given to candidates willing to work from the FREOPP's Washington, DC office. This position will report directly to the Senior Vice President of Policy Research.

Qualified candidates should submit a resume with references, cover letter demonstrating their interest in and qualifications for the position and FREOPP, academic transcripts, and a writing sample.

Core Responsibilities:

Research and writing:

  • Research, edit, and assist in producing research products related to FREOPP's policy work. Work will include, and is not limited to, primary and secondary research, analyzing public policy, producing charts and graphic displays, and preparing research memos and background information for meetings and media appearances
  • Contribute to the production of policy research, including providing feedback and edits on the work of our scholars.
  • Conduct original policy research and grow expertise on issues core to FREOPP's mission.
  • Assist the Senior Vice President of Policy Research, Executive Vice President, and President with research projects as needed.
  • File FOIA requests with different agencies to gather information.
  • Coordinate small and major, long-term research projects.

 

Administrative Support:

  • Work internally on outreach for scholars' work.
  • Coordinate events, gatherings, and projects as needed.
  • Manage additional administrative responsibilities as needed
Qualifications

Required

  • 0-4 years of experience in public policy research, or a related field such as economics or political science.
  • A strong commitment to FREOPP's mission
  • Strong data skills, with an ability to work in Excel as well as at least one other platform (R, Python, or Stata).
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Comfort receiving direct feedback and incorporating that feedback quickly.
  • An ability to identify and complete important work in a timely manner.
  • Positive, collaborative attitude and willingness to contribute where needed.
  • Creative, hardworking, and mission-aligned approach.

Preferred

  • Previous relevant experience as a research assistant supporting scholars.
$45,000 - $60,000 a year
About Stand Together Fellowships 
Learn more about Stand Together Fellowships.
  
Stand Together Fellowships believes that diversity in experiences, perspectives, knowledge and ideas fuels creativity, broadens knowledge, and helps drive success. Our admissions office treats all program participantsand applicantswith honesty, dignity, respectand sensitivity.We welcome all qualified applicants regardless ofcolor,race,religion,religious creed,sex,genderor gender identity,gender expression,sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, ethnicity, ancestry, age, physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, pregnancy(including medical needs which may arise from pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions),military andveteran status,genetic information,maritalor familialstatus, political affiliation,or any other legallyrecognized protected basis under federal, state or local laws, regulations or ordinances. 
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
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