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Public Policy Jobs in Decatur, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Advisor

Decatur, IL ยท On-site

$147K/yr

Experience researching, analyzing, and evaluating strategic management, public policy, or public administration issues; developing recommendations supported by the analysis performed; preparing ...

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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 Aug 20, 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,066 per year, or $35.6 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

At TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Stronger Communities), our mission is to empower people and strengthen communities with impactful services. Since 1976, we have been guided by the belief that every individual holds the potential for positive change. We advocate, support, and most importantly, empower people to break barriers, find recovery, and reshape their destinies. Through Specialized Case Management๏ฟฝ, we create a world where recovery, justice, and empathy lead to thriving communities. Our foundation is anchored at the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal legal system. Today, TASC also operates at the forefront of transformative solutions. We are a social impact organization that embodies a future where health, safety and justice is synonymous with hope. We are TASC!
Starting at $55,000 ๏ฟฝ $57,000 contingent upon experience, education, etc.
TASC's Center for Health and Justice works with communities, governments, and organizations to address complex public health and public safety challenges through evidence-based strategies and cross-system collaboration. Our work is informed by decades of practice and grounded in the belief that the right intervention, delivered at the right time, can change outcomes for individuals and systems alike.
CHJ builds on TASC's legacy of leadership at the intersection of health and justice, translating frontline experience into scalable solutions that support reform and accountability.
Position Summary: The Program Manager ๏ฟฝ TTA Provider leads the design, implementation, and management of high-impact consulting, training, and technical assistance (TTA) initiatives at the intersection of public safety and public health. This position is highly visible and outward-facing ๏ฟฝ serving as a lead trainer, facilitator, and subject-matter expert for statewide and national initiatives.
The Program Manager is responsible for developing and delivering professional presentations, convenings, and workshops that engage law enforcement leaders, policymakers, community partners, and health professionals. The role demands exceptional public speaking ability, strong project management, and the professionalism to represent TASC's Center for Health and Justice (CHJ) in diverse, high-profile settings.
Candidates must reside in Illinois and be willing to travel throughout the state and occasionally nationwide.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage multidisciplinary consulting, training, and technical assistance projects that strengthen collaboration between first responders and community-based behavioral health systems.
  • Serve as a primary facilitator, trainer, and presenter at meetings, conferences, and public events, representing CHJ and TASC with professionalism and subject-matter expertise.
  • Design and deliver interactive trainings, workshops, and learning experiences (virtual and in-person) tailored to the needs of law enforcement, behavioral health, and community partners.
  • Develop and present compelling content for reports, guides, curricula, slide decks, and public presentations.
  • Conduct stakeholder interviews, facilitate group discussions, and translate findings into actionable recommendations and deliverables.
  • Build and maintain strong, strategic relationships with clients, funders, consultants, and partner organizations, ensuring excellent communication and customer service.
  • Manage project budgets, work plans, timelines, and deliverables, ensuring accuracy, accountability, and compliance with funder requirements.
  • Provide clear and timely project updates, reports, and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.
  • Coordinate and oversee project teams, consultants, and cross-functional staff to deliver high-quality results on time and within scope.
  • Protect confidential and proprietary information in accordance with TASC policy and applicable laws.

Our Ideal candidate:
  • Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree in public health, public policy, criminology, or related field preferred.
  • Minimum 2๏ฟฝ4 years of relevant professional experience in public health, criminal justice, behavioral health, or related systems.
    • Experience with deflection, pre-arrest diversion, co-responder, or community responder models is highly preferred.
  • Demonstrated success managing complex projects and partnerships across multiple sectors, preferably within grant- or contract-funded environments.
  • Proven ability to design and deliver high-impact consulting, facilitation, and technical assistance services, both independently and collaboratively.
  • Expert-level public speaking and presentation skills, with the ability to confidently engage large audiences of executives, policymakers, and practitioners; moderate panels and discussions; and represent CHJ at conferences, statewide summits, and national events.
  • Advanced written communication skills, including the ability to produce reports, presentations, and strategic documents for a range of audiences.
  • High proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, and Adobe products.
  • Strong organizational and analytical skills, including attention to detail, time management, and financial tracking.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and leadership abilities, with a proven capacity to build trust, foster collaboration, and motivate cross-functional teams.

Our benefits package includes:
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life Insurance and Flexible Spending
  • Paid Leave - Short-term Disability (STD)
  • Paid Time Off/Sick Time/ Floating Holiday
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • 403 B (retirement plan)

If you are interested in this position, please visit the TASC website at www.tasc.org and apply online.
TASC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free workplace. The agency does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran or military status or any other protected status in accordance with federal and state law.