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Public Policy Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Sun King

We are seeking a Research Associate to support the VP for Public Policy & Government Relations. This role will play a critical part in advancing our engagement on energy access, electrification, and ...

Rice University

Research Associate

Houston, TX · On-site

$60K/yr

The Baker Institute is seeking a Research Associate (RA) to support energy policy research in the ... Founded in 1993, Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy has established itself as one ...

Rice University

Research Associate

Houston, TX

$60K/yr

The Baker Institute is seeking a Research Associate (RA) to support energy policy research in the ... Founded in 1993, Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy has established itself as one ...

McKesson Corporation

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 ...

McKesson

Director Public Policy

Washington, DC

$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 ...

McKesson

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 ...

Oscar Health

Director, Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site +1

$178K - $234K/yr

Communicate research in a compelling, easy-to-understand way to internal and external audiences ... Lead public policy strategy to amplify Oscar messaging. Engage think tanks on aligned position ...

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All JobsPublic Policy Research Associate Jobs

Public Policy Research Associate information

See salary details

$32.5K

$76.4K

$114.5K

How much do public policy research associate jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy research associate in the United States is $76,359.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,500.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Public Policy Research Associate, you need strong analytical skills, research methodology expertise, and typically a degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SPSS or Stata, and experience with qualitative and quantitative research methods, are commonly required. Excellent written and verbal communication, attention to detail, and the ability to synthesize complex information help professionals excel in this role. These competencies are crucial for producing accurate, impactful policy recommendations that inform decision-making and drive effective public outcomes.

What does a Public Policy Research Associate do?

A Public Policy Research Associate conducts research and analysis on policies, laws, and social issues to support decision-making in government, nonprofit, or private sectors. They gather and interpret data, prepare reports, and provide recommendations to policymakers or advocacy groups. Their work often involves reviewing legislation, evaluating program effectiveness, and staying informed about current policy trends. The role requires strong analytical, writing, and communication skills, as well as familiarity with policy-making processes.

What are some common challenges faced by Public Policy Research Associates when working on policy analysis projects?

Public Policy Research Associates often encounter challenges such as gathering reliable and up-to-date data, navigating complex stakeholder interests, and synthesizing large volumes of information into actionable recommendations. Balancing objectivity with organizational or client priorities can also be demanding. Additionally, tight deadlines and rapidly evolving policy landscapes require associates to be adaptable and proactive in their research approach.

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

AspectPublic Policy Research AssociatePolicy 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, think tanks, government agenciesGovernment agencies, think tanks, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsagePrimarily research-focused roles in policy developmentAnalyzing, developing, and recommending policies
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level research roles in policyComparing policy research and analysis careers

The Public Policy Research Associate typically focuses on gathering data and supporting research projects within policy organizations, while a Policy Analyst often takes a step further by analyzing data to develop policy recommendations. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and work in related environments, but the Policy Analyst usually has more responsibility for policy development and strategic recommendations.

More about Public Policy Research Associate jobs
What cities are hiring for Public Policy Research Associate jobs? Cities with the most Public Policy Research Associate 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 Associate jobs? States with the most job openings for Public Policy Research Associate jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Public Policy Research Associate jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Public Policy Research Associate jobs are:
Public Policy Research Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Public Policy Research Associate job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,359 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Research Analyst - Public Policy

Research Analyst - Public Policy

Sun King

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Job location: Any of Sun King Africa Markets.
About the role:
We are seeking a Research Associate to support the VP for Public Policy & Government Relations. This role will play a critical part in advancing our engagement on energy access, electrification, and broader economic development policy across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. The ideal candidate will have interest in energy policy, trade and industrialization policy, and economic development, with the ability to conduct rapid and rigorous research and present insights in compelling ways.
  • Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to support policy review, advocacy, and strategy development.
  • Collect, clean, and analyze large datasets (household surveys, energy access data, trade and investment data, etc.) to generate insights.
  • Apply geospatial analysis and GIS tools to assess market opportunities, customer distribution, infrastructure gaps, and policy impacts.
  • Develop clear, concise briefs, reports, presentations, and visualizations to communicate findings to senior Management, policymakers, and external stakeholders.
  • Track global and regional policy developments in energy, trade, industrialization, and sustainable development, providing timely updates and recommendations.
  • Support preparation for high-level meetings with governments, MDBs/DFIs, and development partners through background research and talking points.
  • Contribute to the development of evidence-based policy positions and thought leadership pieces.
  • Work collaboratively with cross-functional teams (data, operations, communications) to integrate insights into strategy and delivery.
  • 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 foundation in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
  • Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., Stata, R, Python, or equivalent).
  • Experience with GIS platforms (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS) and spatial analysis.
  • Strong skills in data visualization and presentation (Tableau, PowerBI, or equivalent).
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to tailor outputs for technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Demonstrated interest in energy access, renewable energy, and/or economic development policy.

Desired Attributes
  • World-class research expertise in socioeconomic fields, with demonstrated experience in household survey design, sampling methods, and econometric modeling.
  • Experience working in or with emerging markets, especially Africa .
  • Familiarity with global energy access debates, trade and industrialization strategies and policies, and development finance.
  • Ability to translate complex findings into actionable policy recommendations.
  • Curious, able to absorb complex information quickly and translate it into actionable insights.
  • Hands-on and collaborative, willing to take on both strategic and detailed tasks with equal commitment.
  • Strong work ethic, resilience, and comfort with ambiguity.
  • Fluency in English is mandatory, French or Portugese would be an added advantage.
  • Professional growth in a dynamic, rapidly expanding, high-social-impact industry
  • An open-minded, collaborative culture made up of enthusiastic colleagues who are driven by the challenge of innovation towards profound impact on people and the planet.
  • A truly multicultural experience: you will have the chance to work with and learn from people from different geographies, nationalities, and backgrounds.
  • Structured, tailored learning and development programs that help you become a better leader, manager, and professional through the Sun Center for Leadership.

Apply