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Public Policy Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Utah's Promise

Policy Analyst

Salt Lake City, UT · On-site

Working closely with the Vice President of Public Policy, this position plays a key role in researching policy issues, analyzing legislation, engaging community and government partners, and ...

Tamus

Senior Research Associate

College Station, TX

$45K - $63K/yr

Job Title Senior Research Associate Agency Texas A&M University Department Public Policy Research Institute Proposed Minimum Salary $4,584.00 monthly Job Location College Station, Texas Job Type ...

Downtown Seattle Association

Policy Advisor

Seattle, WA · On-site

$85K/yr

The Policy Advisor supports DSA's public policy, advocacy, and economic development priorities by conducting policy research and analysis, developing policy recommendations, managing strategic ...

HISPANIC FEDERATION, INC.

Policy Analyst

Washington, DC

$60K - $65K/yr

Carry out policy and data analysis and related research: Monitor and evaluate New York State policies and legislation. Develop a plan for evaluating and analyzing relevant public and social policies ...

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How much do public policy research jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 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 is public policy research?

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 does public policy research involve?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed for public policy research?

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.

How to get into public policy research?

To enter public policy research, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, or a related field, with advanced degrees like a master's or Ph.D. often preferred. Developing strong analytical, research, and writing skills, along with proficiency in data analysis tools, can improve job prospects. Gaining experience through internships, research assistant positions, or related roles is also valuable for entering this field.

What careers can you do with public policy research?

Public policy research skills can lead to careers such as policy analyst, government advisor, legislative assistant, or research consultant. These roles involve analyzing data, developing policy recommendations, and communicating findings to stakeholders, often requiring strong analytical, communication, and research skills. Opportunities exist in government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, and consulting firms.

What does a public policy researcher do?

A public policy researcher analyzes laws, regulations, and policy proposals to assess their impact and effectiveness. They gather data, conduct interviews, and use research methods to inform policymakers and stakeholders, often working with statistical tools and policy frameworks.
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Infographic showing various Public Policy Research job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $70,320 per year, or $33.8 per hour.

Policy Analyst

Promise Partnership Utah

Salt Lake City, UT • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

ORGANIZATION SUMMARY
Promise Partnership Utah is a cross-sector partnership that supports youth in their educational journey from cradle to career to ensure they can explore, dream, and take steps to realize their potential. Our approach involves being rooted in data and deeply collaborating with public and private sector partners to transform the education environment, so it produces more equitable outcomes and disparity gaps are eliminated. We operate on the deeply held belief that by working collectively we can have a greater impact on our youth than we could have alone.
There is a dedicated team of individuals who support and convene Promise Partnership Utah, called the "backbone team." This team is housed at Utah's Promise, the support entity for the partnership. The Policy Analyst is part of this backbone team.
Promise Partnership Utah's backbone team, United Way of Salt Lake, and 211 Utah (Salt Lake City team) are part of the Utah's Promise organization. Together, we are committed to 100% of kids and families thriving. Our workplace is fast-paced, friendly, adaptive, and grounded in our core values: relationships, continuous improvement, results, and equity. We offer competitive compensation including a comprehensive benefit package, generous paid time off, and flexible schedules. People with diverse backgrounds and abilities are encouraged to apply.
POSITION SUMMARY
Promise Partnership Utah is seeking a collaborative, strategic Policy Analyst to help advance public policies that improve outcomes for children, youth, and families across Utah. Working closely with the Vice President of Public Policy, this position plays a key role in researching policy issues, analyzing legislation, engaging community and government partners, and supporting advocacy efforts that lead to lasting systems change.
The Policy Analyst works across sectors to identify barriers, develop evidence-informed policy solutions, and help ensure effective implementation of public policies. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys both analysis and relationship-building and is excited to help translate community priorities into policy action.
PRIMARY TASK
Provide policy research, analysis, and advocacy support that advances systems change and strengthens outcomes for children, youth, and families.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Support Promise Partnership Utah's local and state policy work in the following ways:
  1. Conduct policy research, analysis, and development to inform advocacy priorities and legislative strategy.
  2. Monitor and analyze state and local legislation, regulations, and public policy developments at the legislature, State School Board and local school board and city and county councils as assigned.
  3. Partner with coalition members and community stakeholders to identify policy opportunities that advance shared outcomes.
  4. Support implementation of policy priorities by coordinating with partners and identifying barriers to successful execution.
  5. Build and maintain relationships with elected officials, government staff, coalition partners, and community organizations.
  6. Lead community engagement activities that support advocacy efforts, including Days on the Hill, legislative briefings, action alerts, and other public engagement opportunities.
  7. Draft policy briefs, fact sheets, talking points, blogs, testimony, action alerts, and other advocacy materials.
  8. Coordinate meetings with federal, state, and local policymakers and prepare materials to support those meetings.
  9. Track legislation, policy outcomes, and advocacy activities to inform organizational strategy and reporting.
  10. Support compliance with lobbying and advocacy reporting requirements.
  11. Represent Promise Partnership Utah in meetings, presentations, and community events.
  12. Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements
REQUIRED COMPETENCIES
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to evaluate policy issues and develop practical recommendations.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex issues for diverse audiences.
  • Ability to build productive relationships with policymakers, partners, and community stakeholders.
  • Experience synthesizing research and data into clear, compelling policy narratives.
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively across teams and organizations.
  • Sound judgment, professionalism, and a high level of integrity.
  • Commitment to engaging diverse perspectives and incorporating community voice into policy development.
  • Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends during the legislative session and for community engagement activities.

QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in public health, public policy, public administration, nonprofit administration, business administration, social work, sociology, or a related field.
  • Minimum 5 years of applicable experience in government, advocacy, legislative and administrative policy, or equivalent academic experience.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft suite and project management software.
  • Speak and write fluently in a second language is a plus.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The employee regularly communicates with internal and external stakeholders and is required to communicate clearly, in oral and written formats and must be able to exchange accurate information. The employee must be able to transcribe, read extensively, prepare and analyze data and figures, operate a computer, and other standard office machinery. The employee is required to regularly travel to locations outside of Utah's Promise facilities to set up and deliver presentations in person, in hybrid environments, and online.
The employee is required to work primarily in-person, in our UP offices during core business hours Monday - Thursday, with the option to work remotely on Fridays. Utah's Promise currently has a 36-hour work week with Friday afternoons off.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
The position is a full-time, exempt position with full benefits. $68,200-83,000. Salary commensurate with experience. UWSL/UP provides a wide range of benefits, including:
  • Competitive medical, dental, vision insurance • 6% retirement match
  • Life, accidental death, and long & short-term disability insurance • FSA • HSA contribution
  • Free on-site gym & bike storage • Paid parking or public transportation subsidy
  • Two weeks paid office closure (December & July) • Generous PTO & Health time
  • Paid parental leave • Onsite coffee shop & café • Paid time to volunteer

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