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Science Policy Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs, Policy, or a related field. In lieu of a degree, 10+ years of experience is required. * 2+ years of ...

Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and * Contributing to internal or external ...

Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and * Contributing to internal or external ...

Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and * Contributing to internal or external ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs, Policy, or a related field. In lieu of a degree, 10+ years of experience is required. * 2+ years of ...

Serve as a strategic advisor to executive leadership on emerging legislative and regulatory trends impacting clinical research, health data, and life sciences innovation. * Monitor and assess policy ...

Showing results 41-60

Science Policy information

See Washington salary details

$62.9K

$109.7K

$175.6K

How much do science policy jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for science policy in Washington is $109,656.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,500.00 and $130,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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 are the most commonly searched types of Science Policy jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Science Policy jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Science Policy jobs in Washington? For Science Policy jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Science Policy jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Science Policy jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Science Policy jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Science Policy job openings:
Infographic showing various Science Policy job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,656 per year, or $52.7 per hour.

$106K/yr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


U.S. Department Of Commerce rating

8.9

Company rating: 8.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

120th of 842 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

This position is located in the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS), Commercial Data Program with 1 vacancy in Lanham, MD or Silver Spring, MD. Additional duty locations are listed for future vacancies and/or vacancies that may be filled throughout the Department of Commerce. Please select locations for which you want to be considered.Qualifications:

Qualification requirements in the vacancy announcements are based on the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards Handbook, which contains federal qualification standards. This handbook is available on the Office of Personnel Management's website located at: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
EDUCATION:There is no positive education requirement for this position.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent in difficulty and responsibility to the next lower grade level in the Federal Service. Specialized experience is experience that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. This experience need not have been in the federal government.
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations e.g., professional; philanthropic, religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies; knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
To qualify at the ZA-4 or GS-13 level:
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must possess one full year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the ZA-3 or GS-12 in the Federal service. Specialized experience MUST include all of the following:

  • Analyzing strategies for short or long-term planning of a program's procedures and policies;
  • Analyzing program policies and making recommendations to improve programmatic issues for a scientific or satellite data products and services program; and
  • Contributing to internal or external policy forums, workshops or meetings, in areas such as agenda development, meeting planning and logistics, or drafting briefing documents and white papers.
Education:Substitution of education for specialized experience is not applicable to this vacancy.Employment Type: OTHER

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