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Public Policy Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Job Title: Public Affairs Specialist Agency: Bureau of Investigation Job Requisition ID: JR0000003765 Shift: Any (United States of America) Compensation Details: $40,000 This is a sensitive ...

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Public Policy information

See Decatur, IL salary details

$31.5K

$74.1K

$111.1K

How much do public policy jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for public policy in Decatur, IL is $74,066.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $55,800.00 and $85,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a public policy professional do?

Public policy professionals research, analyze, and develop policies that address societal issues and guide government action. They work in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, think tanks, and private companies. Their responsibilities often include conducting policy analysis, advising lawmakers, engaging with stakeholders, and advocating for policy changes. The goal is to create effective solutions that promote the public good and respond to community needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a public policy professional?

To thrive as a Public Policy professional, you need strong analytical skills, research abilities, and a solid educational background in public administration, political science, or a related field. Familiarity with policy analysis tools, statistical software (such as STATA or SPSS), and experience with legislative tracking systems are typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills set top performers apart in this field. These competencies are essential for developing effective policies, influencing decision-makers, and ensuring policies address societal needs.

What are some common challenges faced by public policy professionals?

Professionals in public policy often encounter challenges such as balancing diverse stakeholder interests, navigating complex regulatory environments, and responding to rapidly shifting political landscapes. Collaboration across departments and with external organizations is essential, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills. Additionally, public policy professionals must stay current on legislative updates and be adaptable in developing evidence-based recommendations under tight deadlines.

What is the difference between Public Policy vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPublic PolicyPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsGovernment agencies, consulting firms, research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in public sector and advocacy groupsCommonly employed in policy research and analysis roles

Public Policy and Policy Analyst roles often require similar educational backgrounds and are found in similar work environments. Public Policy is a broader field focusing on developing and evaluating policies, while Policy Analysts typically conduct research and provide recommendations within that framework. Both roles are essential in shaping and analyzing policies in government and nonprofit sectors.

How to break into public policy?

Breaking into public policy typically involves obtaining a relevant degree such as political science, public administration, or law, and gaining experience through internships, volunteering, or entry-level positions. Building skills in research, analysis, and communication, as well as networking with professionals in the field, can improve job prospects in public policy roles.

Is public policy in high demand?

Public policy professionals are in steady demand due to the need for government agencies, non-profits, and advocacy groups to develop and analyze policies. Employment opportunities often require strong research, communication skills, and knowledge of government processes, with demand influenced by political and economic factors.

What are the careers in public policy?

Careers in public policy include roles such as policy analyst, government affairs specialist, legislative assistant, public affairs manager, and policy advisor. These positions often require strong research, analytical, and communication skills, and may involve working for government agencies, think tanks, non-profit organizations, or advocacy groups.

What is a public policy job?

A public policy job involves analyzing, developing, and advocating for policies that address societal issues, often within government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations. These roles typically require strong research, communication, and analytical skills, and may involve policy drafting, stakeholder engagement, and data analysis.

What are popular job titles related to Public Policy jobs in Decatur, IL?

For Public Policy jobs in Decatur, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Public Policy jobs?

Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Public Policy job openings:

Infographic showing various Public Policy job openings in Decatur, IL as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,066 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Public Affairs Specialist

Decatur, IL • On-site

$40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop social media strategies for GBI social media platforms.

  • Create content for all GBI social media platforms (graphics, videos, carousels, written posts, etc.).

  • Manage communication with the public via social media.


Job description

Explore a World of Opportunity with the State of Georgia!

We are the force that drives Georgia!
Georgia State Government is a large enterprise, composed of various agencies and entities with a common goal to improve the lives of Georgia's more than 10 million citizens!
Join Team Georgia and impact lives everyday while receiving a robust benefits package designed for every stage of your career!

Job Title:

Public Affairs Specialist

Agency:

Bureau of Investigation

Job Requisition ID:

JR0000003765

Shift:

Any (United States of America)

Compensation Details:

$40,000

Job Description:

This is a sensitive government position.

The GBI will follow State Personnel Board Rules for current state employees.

Please review the GBI Employment Disqualifiers before applying for this position. Employment for the selected candidate(s) is contingent upon the successful completion of a GBI background investigation including criminal, credit and driver's history checks, polygraph examination, fingerprinting and drug screening.

*

The GBI follows the Federal statute regarding drug use and is a drug-free workplace. Although some locations (domestic and foreign) have legalized recreational drug use,
applicants who use or have used drugs or controlled substances will be subject to disqualification from employment with the GBI.

  • Marijuana Usage- Candidates that have used marijuana or cannabis in any form (natural or synthetic) and in any location (domestic or foreign)within (1) year preceding the date of application, will be disqualified.
  • Other Drugs - Candidates that have used any drugs other than marijuana, within 10 years preceding the date of application, will be disqualified.

JOB SUMMARY:

Oversees the GBI's interactions with the public via social media through implementing content strategies on GBI social media platforms. Assists with general duties of the Public & Governmental Affairs Office.

PRIMARY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Develop social media strategies for GBI social media platforms.
  • Create content for all GBI social media platforms (graphics, videos, carousels, written posts, etc.)
  • Manage communication with public via social media.
  • Analyze and identify trends in audience engagement and direct strategies based on this data.
  • Assist with editing and writing news releases.
  • Respond to incoming media inquiries.
  • Manage GBI Podcast.
  • Coordinate with and supervise interns.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • May be required to work extended hours.
  • Statewide travel is required.
  • Must have a valid Georgia Driver's License.
  • May be required to work outside in different weather conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

The incumbent will occasionally be required to stand; walk; reach with hands and arms; stoop and kneel. Occasionally light lifting/or moving boxes or supplies may be required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

This position requires the incumbent to work in an office setting with other professionals.

NOTE: This position requires some travel and operating a state vehicle. A valid Georgia driver's license is required.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university OR Three years of communications or related experience.

The GBI reserves the right to close this job announcement once a qualified applicant pool has been identified.

  • Due to the volume of applications we receive, we are unable to provide information on application status by phone or by e-mail.All qualified applicants will be considered but may not necessarily receive an interview. Applicants who are not selected for an interview will not receive notification.
  • Foreign Education:Applicants who have completed part or all of their education outside the U.S. must have their foreign education evaluated by an accredited organization to ensure that the foreign education is equivalent to education received in accredited educational institutions in the U.S.This evaluation must be a course-by-course evaluation that includes each completed course/subject and the U.S. credit equivalent.Applicants must submit (2) copies of the credential evaluations to the address noted above by the deadline.For a listing of services that can perform this evaluation, see the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services website athttp://www.naces.org/members.htm.
  • Due to budget constraints, the GBI is unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa.
  • Applicants must present a professional image during all phases of the GBI hiring process, to include when interviewing, either in-person or virtually. The attire and appearance of applicants interviewing must be what is generally accepted as both professional and appropriate for a business work environment.
  • Please contact GBI Office of Human Resources at 404-270-8335 or humanresources@gbi.ga.gov if reasonable accommodation is needed in the application and/or interview process.

THE GBI IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Minimum Qualifications:

Associate degree in marketing or a related field from an accredited college or university and two (2) years of job-related experience; or one (1) year of experience required at the lower level Marketing Spec 1 (GSP070) or position equivalent.

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

The State of Georgia does not discriminate based on race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or other protected categories in employment or the provision of services.
Qualified applicants may request reasonable accommodation when needed during the application and/or screening process by contacting the appropriate agency Human Resources department.