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Public Policy Research Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oscar Health

Director, Public Policy

New York, NY · On-site

$198K - $260K/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 ...

Clean Air Task Force

Policy Associate, Fusion Policy

$85K - $106K/yr

Policy Associate, Fusion Policy Reports to: Global Director, Fusion Energy Location: Remote ... This is accomplished through research and analysis, public advocacy leadership, and partnership ...

Akin Gump

Public Policy Fellow

Washington, DC · Hybrid

$62K/yr

Conduct extensive, in-depth and time-sensitive research and package findings. * Draft client-facing ... Public Law & Policy team (and other practices) and our clients. * Other legislative support ...

Oscar Health

Director, Public Policy

Washington, DC · On-site

$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 ...

Oscar Health

Director, Public Policy

New York, NY · Hybrid

$198K - $260K/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 ...

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 ...

BusPatrol

Director of Public Policy

Austin, TX · On-site

$114K - $140K/yr

... Public Policy and Government Relations. This role is ideal for someone with strong political ... Conduct state-by-state policy research and analysis to identify differences in laws and regulations.

BusPatrol

Director of Public Policy

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$225K - $250K/yr

... Public Policy and Government Relations. This role is ideal for someone with strong political ... Conduct state-by-state policy research and analysis to identify differences in laws and regulations.

BusPatrol

Director of Public Policy

Austin, TX · On-site

$114K - $140K/yr

... Public Policy and Government Relations. This role is ideal for someone with strong political ... Conduct state-by-state policy research and analysis to identify differences in laws and regulations.

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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 Jun 16, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 81% In-person, 13% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $76,359 per year, or $36.7 per hour.
Director, Public Policy

Director, Public Policy

Oscar Health

New York, NY • On-site

$198K - $260K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Oscar Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 6 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 261 rated insurance

Job description

Hi, we're Oscar. We're hiring a Director, Public Policy to join our Government Affairs.
Oscar is the first health insurance company built around a full stack technology platform and a relentless focus on serving our members. We started Oscar in 2012 to create the kind of health insurance company we would want for ourselves-one that behaves like a doctor in the family.
About the role:
The Director, Public Policy leads the internal development and coordination of Oscar's public policy strategy with business teams for leadership approval and tracks milestones and progress; manages Oscar's external public policy consultants; oversees internal education and strategic policy support provided to internal clients; and collaborates with and supports Government Affairs leaders in advocacy strategy.
You will report into the VP, Government Affairs.
Work Location: This position is based in our New York City office, requiring a hybrid work schedule with 3 days of in-office work per week. Thursdays are a required in-office day for team meetings and events, while your other two office days are flexible to suit your schedule. #LI-Hybrid
Pay Transparency: The base pay for this role is: $198,720 - $260,820 per year. You are also eligible for employee benefits, participation in Oscar's unlimited vacation program, company equity grants and annual performance bonuses.
Responsibilities:
  • Crafts Policy Positions. Identify, assess, and create strategies to address a broad-spectrum of current, in development, and new healthcare and tech policies of importance to Oscar
    • Develop collateral (background materials, written testimony, talking points, comment letters) to assist Oscar's government affairs team in influencing legislators, regulators, trade associations, and/or professional organizations on matters of public policy
    • Engage, advise, and provide subject matter expertise to members of Oscar's government affairs team and business teams to ensure their understanding of key issues impacting healthcare and technology
    • Communicate research in a compelling, easy-to-understand way to internal and external audiences, including non-policy audiences
  • Thought Leadership. Positions Oscar to lead on policy priorities. Lead public policy strategy to amplify Oscar messaging. Engage think tanks on aligned position papers.
  • Policy Trends. Analyze, prioritize, and organize policy issues and trends to guide strategy development, deployment, and assessment around opportunities and risks.
  • Coalition Building. Identify and engage coalitions to drive policy agenda.
  • On a daily basis, collaborates with internal business leaders and government affairs teams to achieve policy goals. Embrace the unique role of the Government Affairs team and draw on the full resources of our broader team to maximize success.
  • Using an operational mindset, manages internal and external processes and partners.
  • Manage internal team of skilled public policy professionals
  • Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements:
  • Bachelor's Degree or 10+ years experience in fast-paced public policy environments at the federal level, with at least 4+ years experience managing a function critical to business growth.
  • 7+ years of experience in healthcare policy.
  • 2+ years of experience providing strategic counsel to senior policy executives and C-Suite members.
  • 2+ years of experience as representative of an organization before senior level external audiences (regulators, legislative leaders, c-suite professionals, trade organizations).
  • 2+ years of experience in the executive branch (eg. OMB or HHS) or Congress or in a state insurance regulatory role.

Bonus points:
  • Master's or Legal Degree.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the healthcare industry, with a focus on commercial payers and/or ACA plans.
  • Academic experience on healthcare policy or at a healthcare thinktank.
  • Experience running or participating in a public affairs campaign.

This is an authentic Oscar Health job opportunity. Learn more about how you can safeguard yourself from recruitment fraud here.
At Oscar, being an Equal Opportunity Employer means more than upholding discrimination-free hiring practices. It means that we cultivate an environment where people can be their most authentic selves and find both belonging and support. We're on a mission to change health care -- an experience made whole by our unique backgrounds and perspectives.
Pay Transparency: Final offer amounts, within the base pay set forth above, are determined by factors including your relevant skills, education, and experience. Full-time employees are eligible for benefits including: medical, dental, and vision benefits, 11 paid holidays, paid sick time, paid parental leave, 401(k) plan participation, life and disability insurance, and paid wellness time and reimbursements.
Artificial Intelligence (AI): Our AI Guidelines outline the acceptable use of artificial intelligence for candidates and detail how we use AI to support our recruiting efforts.
Reasonable Accommodation: Oscar applicants are considered solely based on their qualifications, without regard to applicant's disability or need for accommodation. Any Oscar applicant who requires reasonable accommodations during the application process should contact the Oscar Benefits Team (accommodations@hioscar.com) to make the need for an accommodation known.
California Residents: For information about our collection, use, and disclosure of applicants' personal information as well as applicants' rights over their personal information, please see our Privacy Policy.

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