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Science Policy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Meta

Product Policy Manager, GenAI

Menlo Park, CA · On-site +1

$153K/yr

Bachelor's degree in political science, policy, law, comms, computer science or related field * 8+ years of experience working in policy, policy enforcement, law, government, product design, product ...

Meta

Product Policy Manager, GenAI

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$153K/yr

Bachelor's degree in political science, policy, law, comms, computer science or related field * 8+ years of experience working in policy, policy enforcement, law, government, product design, product ...

Clearpath

Research Fellow, Clinical Trial Policy

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Reporting to the director of science and innovation, the senior fellow will be responsible for producing original research and commentary, developing policy ideas, and building relationships with ...

New

PSE Healthy Energy

Energy Transitions Scientist

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $102K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

About PSE Healthy Energy PSE Healthy Energy is an independent science and policy research institute dedicated to generating science-based energy and climate solutions that protect public health and ...

PSE Healthy Energy

Energy Transitions Scientist

Oakland, CA · On-site +1

$89K - $102K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

About PSE Healthy Energy PSE Healthy Energy is an independent science and policy research institute dedicated to generating science-based energy and climate solutions that protect public health and ...

Fox

Senior Product Manager, Ad Technology

Los Angeles, CA

$136K - $179K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Partner closely with engineering, data science, policy, operations, legal, and business teams to shape solutions, align tradeoffs, and drive execution of new capabilities. * Influence stakeholders ...

TikTok

Applied Research Scientist - Trust and Safety

San Jose, CA · On-site

$219K - $408K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The researcher will partner closely with Data Science, Policy, Product, Operations, and Engineering teams to shape how we understand and address evolving safety challenges at scale. Responsibilities:

Chapman University

Student Faculty Support

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE215524 Position Information Department or Unit Name Environmental Science & Policy Position Headcount 1 Position Title Student Faculty ...

Chapman University

Student Faculty Support

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Posting Details Student Title Classification Information Quick Link Job Number SE215524 Position Information Department or Unit Name Environmental Science & Policy Position Headcount 1 Position Title ...

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All JobsScience Policy JobsScience Policy Jobs in California

Science Policy information

See California salary details

$54.8K

$95.6K

$153K

How much do science policy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for science policy in California is $95,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $74,500.00 and $113,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is science policy?

Science policy refers to the development, implementation, and evaluation of public policies that affect scientific research, technological advancement, and the use of science in society. Professionals in science policy bridge the gap between scientists, policymakers, and the public to ensure that scientific knowledge informs decisions on issues such as health, environment, and technology. They may work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, academia, or industry to advocate for evidence-based policies and funding for research.

What is science policy?

Science policy involves the distribution of resources in a way that protects the best interest of the public. Public policy decisions come from federal or state government agencies. They focus on allocating government budgets to scientific research, technology, and education. School boards, universities, and nonprofit groups are frequently affected by this type of public policy, and some lawyers specialize in this area (often becoming lobbyists). Scientific organizations and lobbying firms also play a part in the process of determining science-related policy issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in science policy?

To thrive in Science Policy, you need a strong background in scientific research, policy analysis, and knowledge of regulatory frameworks, often supported by an advanced degree in science or public policy. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy management systems, and proficiency in drafting policy briefs are typically required. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help professionals effectively bridge the gap between scientific research and policy-making. These competencies are crucial for translating complex scientific information into actionable policies that address societal challenges.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in science policy roles?

Professionals in science policy often navigate the challenge of translating complex scientific information into actionable policy recommendations for non-expert audiences. Balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders, such as scientists, government officials, and the public, can also be demanding. Additionally, keeping up with rapidly evolving scientific developments while working within the slower pace of policy-making requires strong communication and adaptability skills. Collaboration across disciplines and agencies is common, making teamwork and negotiation essential parts of the job.

What is the difference between Science Policy vs Science Communication?

AspectScience PolicyScience Communication
Required CredentialsAdvanced degrees in science or public policy, often with policy experienceBackground in science, communication, journalism, or public relations
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOs, policy officesMedia outlets, science centers, public outreach organizations
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy development, legislative advising, advocacyPublic engagement, media, education, outreach

Science Policy and Science Communication both involve science but serve different roles. Science Policy focuses on shaping policies and regulations through research and advocacy, often within government or NGOs. Science Communication aims to inform and engage the public about scientific topics through media, education, and outreach. While they share a scientific background, their goals and work environments differ significantly.

What does a career in science policy look like?

A career in science policy involves analyzing and developing policies that influence scientific research, funding, and regulation. Professionals in this field often work for government agencies, think tanks, or advocacy organizations, requiring strong communication skills, knowledge of science and policy, and often a background in science or public policy. The role may include research, policy analysis, stakeholder engagement, and advocacy efforts.
More about Science Policy jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Science Policy jobs in California?

The most popular types of Science Policy jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Science Policy jobs in California?

For Science Policy jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Science Policy jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Science Policy jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Science Policy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Science Policy job openings:

Science Policy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Science Policy job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $95,551 per year, or $45.9 per hour.

Product Policy Manager, GenAI

Meta

Menlo Park, CA • On-site, Remote

$153K/yr

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Meta rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

137th of 245 rated software companies

Job description

Meta is seeking a product-focused strategic thinker to join its Product Policy team as a Product Policy Manager. In this role, you will provide direct policy counsel to product and engineering teams as they launch new multi-modal Gen AI products and features. You’ll achieve this by collaborating with a range of cross-functional stakeholders, including policy, product, legal, communications, design, and marketing teams.The ideal candidate will have expertise in AI technologies and tech policy, with an understanding of the AI policy and regulatory landscape, including relevant industry trends. They will also be comfortable managing shifting priorities and tight timelines in a dynamic product environment.
Product Policy Manager, GenAI Responsibilities:
  • Provide policy guidance that protects and promotes free expression in Gen AI products/features, while minimizing business risks and ensuring compliance with evolving regulatory and policy environments
  • Develop and implement forward-thinking policies to govern multi-modal Gen AI products and features
  • Create clear risk assessments and build scalable frameworks to operationalize a consistent set of mitigations across a broad range of products
  • Work with software engineers, designers, lawyers, product managers, and others to help product teams address policy, legal, engineering, user interface, business, and marketing considerations
  • Act as an escalation point of contact and manage internal communications for policy issues

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in political science, policy, law, comms, computer science or related field
  • 8+ years of experience working in policy, policy enforcement, law, government, product design, product management, or related fields
  • Experience working independently and cross-functionally to develop policies and apply analytical thinking to solving ambiguous, complex problems
  • Experience with consensus building in a highly matrixed environment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)
  • Experience dealing with escalations and/or time-sensitive issues
  • Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
  • Proficiency in drafting formal policy documentation for a wide-ranging audience
  • Experience advising on AI technologies and other online products and platforms in a product policy role
  • Understanding of AI policy and tech issues, including key stakeholders, research initiatives, and relevant industry trends
  • Experience articulating policies and their reasons to various audiences effectively
  • Experience in adversarial simulation and red-teaming methodologies
  • Master’s degree or PhD in political science, policy, law, computer science or related field
  • Experience developing policies for governing multi-modal (image, video, audio) generative AI products
  • Experience communicating policy decisions and recommendations to product managers, engineers, researchers, and executives through written documentation and presentations
  • Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies

About Meta:
Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.
Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@meta.com.
$153,000/year to $224,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits
Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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