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Senior Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA ยท On-site

$115K - $145K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. #KS Responsibilities The Senior Policy Analyst ...

The Senior Policy Analyst will be responsible for our Florida and New Jersey regions and can be based in either of those regions or New York City. The Policy Analyst must have political experience as ...

TS/SCI with a Polygraph Position # 688016842 Synertex is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to work with a Government Intelligence Community client in McLean, VA. Benefits include competitive PTO, 11 ...

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Senior Policy Analyst information

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$55.5K

$96.8K

$155K

How much do senior policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior policy analyst in the United States is $96,819.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $75,500.00 and $115,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior policy analyst?

Senior Policy Analysts are professionals who conduct research, evaluate data, and develop recommendations on public policies for governments, organizations, or think tanks. They analyze existing and proposed policies, assess their potential impacts, and prepare reports or briefings for decision-makers. Senior Policy Analysts often lead teams, manage complex projects, and provide expert advice to help shape strategic directions and legislative actions.

What is the difference between Senior Policy Analyst vs Policy Analyst?

AspectSenior Policy AnalystPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree, often a master's; experience preferredBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field
Work EnvironmentMore complex projects, mentorship roles, strategic planningResearch, data analysis, report writing
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsSimilar settings, entry to mid-level roles
Common Search & ComparisonHigher responsibility, experience requiredEntry-level, foundational policy work

The main difference between a Senior Policy Analyst and a Policy Analyst lies in experience, responsibilities, and project complexity. Senior Policy Analysts typically handle more strategic tasks, mentor junior staff, and have more industry experience, whereas Policy Analysts focus on research and data analysis at an entry or mid-level. Both roles are common in government, NGOs, and think tanks, but the senior position requires a deeper understanding and proven expertise.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior policy analyst?

To thrive as a Senior Policy Analyst, you need advanced analytical skills, research proficiency, and a strong background in public policy or a related field, typically supported by a relevant graduate degree. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy modeling software, and government databases is often required, along with experience in drafting policy briefs or reports. Exceptional communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills set outstanding analysts apart. These competencies are vital for producing insightful policy recommendations that influence decision-making and drive effective public outcomes.

How do senior policy analysts typically collaborate with other teams and stakeholders within an organization?

Senior Policy Analysts frequently work cross-functionally, engaging with colleagues in research, communications, government relations, and executive leadership to develop and refine policy recommendations. They often lead or participate in multi-disciplinary project teams, gather insights from subject matter experts, and present findings to both internal and external stakeholders. Building consensus and facilitating productive discussions are key aspects of the role, as is translating complex analysis into actionable advice for decision-makers. This collaborative environment fosters continuous learning and a broad perspective on organizational priorities.
More about Senior Policy Analyst jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Policy Analyst jobs? Cities with the most Senior Policy Analyst job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Policy Analyst jobs? The most popular types of Policy Analyst jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Senior Policy Analyst jobs? The top employers for Senior Policy Analyst jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Policy Analyst jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Policy Analyst jobs include:
Infographic showing various Senior Policy Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,819 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

$115K - $145K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Overview
Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.
The SLA Analysis Group provides objective analyses, plans, and strategies to USN, USAF, Australian Defence, and DARPA clients to support acquisition, delivery, and sustainment decisions. Embedded within the group lies the core SPA thought leadership on Undersea Strategy, Software Development, and Cost Estimating with additional benchmark capabilities in AI/ML & Decision Analytics, Modeling and Simulation, and Future Force Assessments.
SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the client site at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. #KS
Responsibilities
The Senior Policy Analyst will support SPA's Navy Staff client in the development of Navy and Joint plans, programs, and policies. The analyst will be required to provide advice and analysis regarding inter-agency plans and policies, Navy plans on force employment and posture, how the Navy will meet anticipated national security requirements, and Navy-wide coordination and integration with the Coast Guard and Marine Corps. He/she will employ multidisciplinary analysis to find objective and rigorous answers on these topics; draft, review, and analyze plans and policy documents; assist Navy Staff in responding to taskers and requests for information; and coordinate and participate in reviews and other meetings, developing information papers and briefings, wargaming support, coordination of off-site activities, facilitation of planning conferences, coordinating policy positions across Navy stakeholders, advocacy support for the development and coordination of N5 topics and related issues across DoD and DON. Additional activities include delivering presentations to senior leaders.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research, maritime policy,
    international relations, national security affairs, strategic studies of Government, or related fields; Project Management Professional is preferred
  • Ten (10) years or more of progressive DoD experience to include experience in Echelon 1 policy and planning; fluency in OSD and Naval organizations; familiarity with current U.S. Service, Joint and DoD Capstone Strategies and Policies; OPNAV documentation, editorial, analytic and research standards; prior OPNAV and/or SECNAV experience preferred
  • Previous experience working in OPNAV or comparable Navy staff roles, including familiarity with tasker process, action memos, and other workflows
  • Strong written and oral communication skills, the ability and willingness to multi-task, and capable of professionally addressing client questions and issues
  • Proficiency with the MS Office Suite of products (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
  • Active DoD Secret clearance is required, and the ability to maintain it throughout employment

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience with Navy or Coast Guard policy, plans, and programs and service integration

Pay Range Information
At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities. SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc. Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Virginia, Pay Transparency Salary range: USD $115,000.00/Yr. - USD $145,000.00/Yr.