1

Security Policy Analyst Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

S. security and promote global stability. Our mission spans four critical national security areas ... Procurement Policy Analysts also conduct compliance reviews, develop and manage procurement ...

S. security and promote global stability. Our mission spans four critical national security areas ... Procurement Policy Analysts also conduct compliance reviews, develop and manage procurement ...

Credit Policy Analyst

Vacaville, CA · On-site

$90K - $132K/yr

Travis Credit Union's (TCU) Credit Policy Analyst focuses on developing, implementing, and ... security. In turn, this enables our employees to focus on delivering exceptional service to our ...

S. security and promote global stability. Our mission spans four critical national security areas ... Procurement Policy Analysts also conduct compliance reviews, develop and manage procurement ...

This role focuses on monitoring, analyzing, and optimizing security technologies while improving detection capabilities, policy effectiveness, and overall security posture. The ideal candidate has ...

This role focuses on monitoring, analyzing, and optimizing security technologies while improving detection capabilities, policy effectiveness, and overall security posture. The ideal candidate has ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Security Policy Analyst information

See California salary details

$39K

$105.9K

$139.2K

How much do security policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for security policy analyst in California is $105,928.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $90,300.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a security policy analyst do?

A Security Policy Analyst is responsible for developing, reviewing, and implementing policies and procedures that protect an organization’s information and assets. They analyze current security systems, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend improvements to ensure compliance with laws and industry standards. Security Policy Analysts also educate staff on security policies and may conduct risk assessments or audits to ensure policies are effective. Their work helps organizations mitigate risks and respond appropriately to security threats.

What are some common challenges security policy analysts face when implementing new policies within an organization?

Security Policy Analysts often encounter challenges such as balancing organizational needs with regulatory compliance, gaining stakeholder buy-in, and addressing resistance to change. They must ensure that new policies are both practical and enforceable, while minimizing disruption to daily operations. Collaboration with IT, legal, and business teams is key, as is effective communication to explain the rationale and benefits of policy changes. Staying current with evolving threats and regulations also adds complexity to the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security policy analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Security Policy Analyst, you need expertise in risk assessment, policy development, and an understanding of cybersecurity or physical security frameworks, often supported by a degree in security studies, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with regulatory compliance tools, security standards (such as NIST, ISO 27001), and sometimes certifications like CISSP or CISM is typically expected. Strong analytical thinking, written communication, and stakeholder collaboration skills distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies are crucial for crafting effective security policies that mitigate risks and align with organizational and regulatory requirements.

What is the difference between Security Policy Analyst vs Security Compliance Specialist?

AspectSecurity Policy AnalystSecurity Compliance Specialist
CredentialsBachelor's in cybersecurity, IT, or related field; certifications like CISSP, CISASimilar credentials; often holds CISSP, CISA, or CompTIA Security+
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, corporations, consulting firmsOrganizations with regulatory requirements, auditing firms
Employer & IndustryFocus on developing and analyzing security policiesFocus on ensuring compliance with security standards and regulations
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles in security policy developmentUnderstanding roles in security compliance and audits

While both roles require cybersecurity knowledge and similar certifications, a Security Policy Analyst primarily develops and analyzes security policies, whereas a Security Compliance Specialist ensures these policies meet regulatory standards. Both roles are vital in maintaining organizational security and often work together within the same industry environments.

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

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

Infographic showing various Security Policy Analyst job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $105,928 per year, or $50.9 per hour.

$85 - $115/hr

Other

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

The Legislative Analyst's Office seeks intellectually curious individuals who have completed (or will soon complete) graduate study in public policy, public administration, economics, or a related field. This position provides the opportunity to develop expertise across California budget and policy issues while serving the Legislature in a nonpartisan environment.

The LAO has provided nonpartisan fiscal and policy analysis to the California Legislature since 1941. The primary activities of the LAO are to:

  • Assist the Legislature in all aspects of the budget process through its analytical and oversight activities.

  • Respond to legislative requests for information about and analysis of the state’s budget and programs.

  • Conduct independent studies and produce self-generated reports on topics of importance to the state.

We deal with real-world problems that directly affect the public and assist the Legislature in setting budget priorities and state policy for one of the world’s largest economies. Working independently as well as in teams, we serve as the eyes and ears of the California Legislature to ensure that state-funded programs are operating in an efficient and effective manner.

The LAO values excellence, expertise, teamwork, service, and diversity.

The primary responsibility of a fiscal and policy analyst (FPA) is to be the LAO’s expert in the policy area to which they are assigned. These assignments fall into one of the following units in the office: Economy, Taxes, and Labor; Health, Developmental Services, and Technology; Environment and Transportation; Higher Education; K-12 Education; Human Services and Governance; Public Safety and Business Regulation; and State Budget Condition.

Toward this end, an analyst:

  • Spends considerable time in the field learning first-hand how programs work in practice.

  • Keeps up on the laws and available literature in the program area.

  • Knows and stays in contact with legislative, administrative, and intergovernmental staff, as well as industry groups and nonprofit organizations in the assigned policy area.

The analyst uses this expertise to:

  • Identify and analyze budget and policy issues and develop options and recommendations for the Legislature to address these issues. These analyses are contained in reports, legislative assignments, and initiative and ballot pamphlet write-ups.

  • Testify before legislative committees on fiscal and policy issues.

  • Serve as a fiscal and program resource to legislators whenever needed.

Because analysts are nonpartisan fiscal and policy staff, it is essential their work be objective, analytical, accurate, and thorough. In addition, for the analyst’s work to be useful to the Legislature, it must be solution-oriented and performed in a timely manner.

The unit assignment for this position has yet to be determined and may be in any of the units listed above.

Previous full-time policy experience is not required. We welcome applications from current graduate students and recent graduates who demonstrate strong analytical ability, excellent writing skills, intellectual curiosity, and a sincere interest in California budget and policy issues.

Applicants must possess a master's degree in public policy, public or business administration, economics, or a related field that includes a curriculum of economics, statistics, public finance, and policy analysis. In addition, analysts must (1) possess strong quantitative and analytical skills; (2) be able to communicate effectively through clear and concise writing and oral presentations; (3) work well with others in a fast-paced and production-oriented environment; (4) learn, show initiative, and be willing to take on increasing levels of responsibility; and (5) be proficient in Microsoft Excel and Word.

Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.

This recruitment is being conducted outside of our regular annual recruitment cycle, which opens each year on November 15. The anticipated start date for this position is mid-September/October.

Permanent, full-time. Employees work from the office in Sacramento, CA Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. Telecommuting is offered most Mondays and Fridays, workload permitting, but in-person work may be necessary.

#J-18808-Ljbffr