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Social Science Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Policy Analyst

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

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 ...

New

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

The Policy Analyst is a self-starter, proactive problem-solver, and action-oriented team player ... the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human ...

TS/SCI with a Polygraph Position # 688016842 Synertex is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to work ... Bachelor's degree in social, political, physical, natural or business sciences; humanities ...

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

Policy Analyst

Arlington, VA · On-site

$125 - $150/hr

Responsibilities The Senior Policy Analyst will support SPA's Navy Staff client in the development ... Master's degree from an accredited university in the field of military science, operations research ...

The Policy Analyst is a self-starter, proactive problem-solver, and action-oriented team player ... the National Science Foundation. We specialize in applying technology, creativity and human ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

The Policy Analyst is vital to supporting the strategic operational functions of the Department and ... A graduate degree from an accredited college or university with a major in social work, psychology ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$100 - $125/hr

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 ...

New

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

Policy Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

$119K - $199K/yr

The Policy Analyst advises, assists, leads, manages, and works all policy development, review ... Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science, Systems Engineering, Cybersecurity, International Affairs ...

Showing results 41-60

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 9, 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.

Social Science Research Analyst

Denver, CO • On-site, Remote

Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Public Administration • 1 - 5K employees

$107K - $156K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Develop and conduct program and policy analyses to understand the needs and preferences of HHS health and human services programs and populations.

  • Utilize market research and statistical techniques to identify ways to improve services and analyze the quality and performance of HHS programs.

  • Design and oversee analytic strategies for health care research projects related to Medicaid and CHIP, including implementation and monitoring of new requirements.


Job description

Summary
This position is located in the Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Center for Medicaid and CHIP Services(CMCS).
As a Social Science Research Analyst, GS-0101-13, you will develop and use surveys, market research, and statistical
methodologies and techniques to conduct studies of assigned HHS programs.
Learn more about this agency
Duties
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  • Develop and conduct program and policy analyses to identify and understand the needs and preferences of HHS health and human services programs and the populations they serve.
  • Utilize appropriate market research and statistical techniques to identify ways to improve services to these programs. Conducts analyses of the quality and performance of HHS health and human services programs.
  • Direct and coordinate the planning, design, development, and implementation of major health care research projects related to Medicaid and CHIP.
  • Design and oversee analytic strategies to support implementation and ongoing monitoring of the new requirements.
  • Evaluate program outcomes, assess state compliance, and identify policy implications, ensuring findings are integrated into oversight and technical assistance activities.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • You must be a U.S. Citizen or National to apply for this position.
  • You will be subject to a background and suitability investigation.
  • All Federal employees are required to have Federal salary payments made by direct deposit to a financial institution of their choice.
  • If you are selected for this position, the documentation that you present for purposes of completing the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Form I-9 will be verified through the DHS "E-Verify" System.
  • One-year probationary period may be required.
  • Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered or exempt from Selective Service - http://www.sss.gov

Qualifications
ALL QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS MUST BE MET BY THE CLOSING DATE OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT.
Your resume (limited to no more than 2 pages) must include detailed information as it relates to the responsibilities and specialized experience for this position. Evidence of copying and pasting directly from the vacancy announcement without clearly documenting supplemental information to describe your experience will result in an ineligible rating. This will prevent you from receiving further consideration.

In order to qualify for the GS-13, you must meet the following: You must demonstrate in your resume at least one year (52 weeks) of qualifying specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal government, obtained in either the private or public sector, to include: 1) Applying qualitative and quantitative analytical techniques to interpret healthcare data in support of policy development, program implementation, program monitoring and evaluation, or compliance with program requirements; 2) Designing and implementing healthcare research projects or data studies related to Medicaid and CHIP data, or other similar healthcare programs; 3) Developing and presenting technical documents to explain data from studies OR to make recommendations to stakeholders on program policies or program integrity initiatives; AND 4) Advising on data collection, data quality, and data reporting, including providing technical assistance to stakeholder regarding Medicaid and CHIP data, or other similar healthcare programs (i.e state level, private organizations).
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.
Education
Education Requirement: In addition to meeting the qualification requirements, all candidates must have the following educational requirements:
  • Degree: behavioral or social science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position; OR
  • Combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field; OR
  • Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.

TRANSCRIPTS are required to verify satisfactory completion of the educational requirement listed above. Failure to submit a copy of your transcripts at the time of application WILL result in an ineligible rating. Please see "Required Documents" section below for what documentation is required at the time of application.
Click the following link to view the occupational questionnaire: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13030775
Additional information
Bargaining Unit Position: Yes-American Federation of Government Employees, Local 1923
Tour of Duty: Flexible
Recruitment Incentive: Not Authorized
Relocation Incentive: Not Authorized
Financial Disclosure: Not Required
Workplace Flexibility at CMS: This position has a regular and recurring reporting requirement to the CMS office listed in this announcement. CMS offers flexible working arrangements and allows employees the opportunity to participate in alternative work schedules at the manager's discretion.
The Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP) and Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) provide eligible displaced federal employees with selection priority over other candidates for competitive service vacancies. To be qualified you must submit the required documentation and be rated well-qualified for this vacancy. Click here for a detailed description of the required supporting documents. A well-qualified applicant is one whose knowledge, skills and abilities clearly exceed the minimum qualification requirements of the position. Additional information about ICTAP and CTAP eligibility is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website at www.opm.gov/rif/employee_guides/career_transition.asp.
Locality-
Atlanta: $112,556 - $146,325
Boston: $120,548 - $ 156,715
Dallas: $ 115,711 - $ 150,426
Denver: $ 118,675 - $ 154,280
Kansas City: $108,173 - $ 140,627
Seattle: $ 119,630- $ 155,521
Woodlawn: $121,785 - $158,322
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.