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Social Science Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the ... Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $150K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the ... Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$135K - $150K/yr

SPA has an immediate need for a Senior Policy Analyst. This is a full-time position seated at the ... Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$96K - $118K/yr

The Policy Analyst role is broad and multifaceted, spanning strategic, technical, and ... A minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity ...

Policy Analyst

Richmond, VA · On-site

$60 - $80/hr

The Policy Analyst will drive statewide, systems‑level change in one of our five core issue areas ... Strong commitment to social, economic, and racial justice. Actively centers equity and inclusion ...

Policy Analyst

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$92K - $107K/yr

The Policy Analyst role is broad and multifaceted, spanning strategic, technical, and ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems * A minimum of 7+ years of demonstrated experience ...

Showing results 21-40

Social Science Policy Analyst information

See salary details

$47.5K

$74.9K

$139K

How much do social science policy analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for social science policy analyst in the United States is $74,903.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $94,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a social science policy analyst?

Social Science Policy Analysts are professionals who study and evaluate social policies and programs to determine their effectiveness and impact on communities. They use research methods from disciplines such as sociology, economics, and political science to analyze data, prepare reports, and make policy recommendations. These analysts often work for government agencies, think tanks, or non-profit organizations, helping to shape public policy decisions. Their work is crucial in ensuring that policies are evidence-based and effectively address social issues.

How does a social science policy analyst typically collaborate with stakeholders during the policy development process?

Social Science Policy Analysts frequently work with a diverse range of stakeholders—including government officials, community organizations, subject matter experts, and the public—to gather input, share research findings, and build consensus around policy recommendations. Collaboration often involves organizing stakeholder meetings, conducting interviews or focus groups, and synthesizing feedback to ensure proposed policies are informed by multiple perspectives. This collaborative approach helps create more effective, equitable policies and enhances buy-in during implementation.

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

To thrive as a Social Science Policy Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, a background in social sciences or public policy, and experience conducting research and data interpretation. Familiarity with statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or Stata), policy evaluation frameworks, and sometimes a master's degree in a relevant field are typically required. Excellent written communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement skills help analysts present findings and influence policy decisions effectively. These competencies are crucial for producing evidence-based recommendations that inform and shape effective public policies.

What is the difference between Social Science Policy Analyst vs Policy Researcher?

AspectSocial Science Policy AnalystPolicy Researcher
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in social sciences, public policy, or related fieldsBachelor's or Master's in social sciences, public policy, or related fields
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, think tanks, NGOsResearch institutions, think tanks, government
Employer & Industry UsagePolicy development, analysis, and advisingConducting research to inform policy decisions

Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in government or research settings. A Social Science Policy Analyst focuses on analyzing and advising on policies, while a Policy Researcher primarily conducts research to inform policy decisions. The roles are closely related, with the analyst applying research findings to policy development.

What cities are hiring for Social Science Policy Analyst jobs?

Cities with the most Social Science Policy Analyst job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Social Science Policy Analyst jobs?

For Social Science Policy Analyst jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Social Science Policy Analyst job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,903 per year, or $36 per hour.

Policy Analyst

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Systems Planning and Analysis
Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing • 1 - 5K employees

$90K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 11 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 Undersea Technology Portfolio, within SPA's Sea, Land, & Air Division, conducts rigorous and objective analyses to enable the Navy and other DoD organizations to make decisions, plans, and strategies to deliver emerging technologies and warfighting capabilities.  We support clients across the undersea, naval special warfare, and expeditionary warfare enterprises, including those within resourcing and requirements, acquisition, and science and technology.

SPA is seeking a Strategy Policy Analyst to support NAVSEA's Naval Special Warfare Program Office. #KS

Responsibilities

The Strategy Policy Analyst will support NAVSEA's PMS 340 office by developing policy recommendations, conducting strategic assessments, and coordinating crossstakeholder initiatives that strengthen program execution across the PMS 340's portfolios. This role involves synthesizing complex operational, acquisition, and policy inputs into actionable guidance, supporting seniorlevel decisionmaking, and ensuring alignment with NAVSEA, OPNAV, and Fleet priorities.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree in public policy, business, international affairs, engineering, or a related field

  • Minimum 7 years of relevant experience

  • Demonstrated experience supporting DoD, Navy, or acquisition program offices

  • Active DoD Secret clearance (or higher)

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience with NAVSEA 

  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate policy and operational data into strategic recommendations

  • Familiarity with special warfare, small craft programs, or PMS 340 mission areas

Pay Range InformationAt 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 $90,000.00/Yr. - USD $110,000.00/Yr.Employment Type: FULL_TIME