Policy Research Assistant Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of public policy, the spotlight on policy research assistants has never been more prominent.

As policy landscapes continue to evolve, the demand for skilled individuals who can conduct, synthesize, and analyze policy research intensifies.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a policy research assistant?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of policy research,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable policy research assistant job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Policy Research Assistant Duties and Responsibilities

Policy Research Assistants support policy development and analysis processes.

They use their research skills to gather, analyze, and interpret data related to various policies.

They also assist in communicating research findings to stakeholders and in the creation of policy proposals.

The primary duties and responsibilities of a Policy Research Assistant are:

• Conduct research on various policy issues using a range of research tools and methodologies
• Analyze policy issues and trends using statistical analysis and other methods
• Support in the development of policy proposals and reports
• Assist in the coordination of policy initiatives and projects
• Prepare briefing notes, policy papers, and presentations
• Communicate research findings to stakeholders in a clear and concise manner
• Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of policy issues and developments
• Provide administrative and logistical support as needed, including organizing meetings and events
• Assist in the preparation of grant applications and funding proposals
• Collaborate with other team members and stakeholders to achieve policy objectives

 

Policy Research Assistant Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Policy Research Assistant to support our policy development and analysis efforts.

The Policy Research Assistant will be responsible for conducting detailed research on policy issues, analyzing and interpreting data, and producing clear, concise reports.

The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of policy issues, a passion for research, and excellent analytical skills.

They should be able to work independently, meet deadlines, and produce high-quality work under pressure.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct thorough research on various policy issues
• Analyze and interpret data related to policy issues
• Assist in the preparation of policy briefs, reports, and presentations
• Monitor and report on policy developments and trends
• Collaborate with policy team to develop policy recommendations
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date research databases
• Provide administrative support to the policy team as needed

 

Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field
• Prior experience in policy research or a similar role
• Strong understanding of policy issues and the policy-making process
• Excellent research and data analysis skills
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis software

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Policy Research Assistant
• Work Environment: Office setting with options for remote work. Some travel may be required for team meetings or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Policy Director or Research Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Policy Research Assistant Do?

Policy Research Assistants typically work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or research institutions.

They assist in the research and analysis of public policy issues and help in the formulation of potential policy solutions or recommendations.

Their job often involves conducting research on policy issues, collecting and analyzing data, monitoring policy developments, and summarizing research findings.

They also help in the preparation of reports, briefings, presentations, and other written materials related to policy research.

Policy Research Assistants may also be required to liaise with stakeholders, including government officials, non-profit organizations, and the general public, to gather input on policy matters.

They work under the guidance of policy analysts or researchers, aiding in the interpretation of policies and legislation and the examination of their impacts on various sectors and communities.

 

Policy Research Assistant Qualifications and Skills

A qualified Policy Research Assistant should possess a range of specific skills and qualifications that align with the demands of this role, including:

• Strong analytical skills to review, understand, and interpret complex policy documents and legislation
• Excellent research skills to conduct in-depth research on various policy issues and topics
• Ability to synthesize large volumes of information and present findings in a clear and concise manner
• Good understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies to gather and analyze data
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills to prepare reports and present research findings to senior staff
• Proficiency in using various research tools and software such as statistical analysis software, databases, and spreadsheets
• Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy and reliability of research data
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
• Knowledge of policy areas relevant to the organization, along with a keen interest in staying updated on current policy debates and changes

 

Policy Research Assistant Experience Requirements

Policy Research Assistants typically hold a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field and have a keen interest in the study of policy-making.

The ideal candidate might have prior experience in an internship, part-time role, or work-study position in a research-based environment.

Entry-level Policy Research Assistants may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or research-based coursework in areas such as public policy analysis, law, economics, or social sciences.

This role requires skills such as data collection and analysis, report writing, and project management.

Candidates with 3 to 5 years of experience often have a deeper understanding of policy research methodologies and have hands-on experience with data analysis tools and software.

They may have worked on several policy research projects, showcasing their ability to handle complex research tasks, data interpretation, and policy analysis.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have additional expertise in specific policy areas or sectors.

They may also have experience leading research projects, supervising junior researchers, and presenting research findings to key stakeholders.

These candidates are often prepared to take on more senior roles, such as Policy Analyst, Research Manager, or Policy Advisor.

 

Policy Research Assistant Education and Training Requirements

Policy Research Assistants typically have a bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, economics, or a related field.

This role requires a solid understanding of research methodologies, data analysis, and knowledge of public policy issues.

Candidates often gain these skills through coursework in research methods, statistics, economics, and public policy.

Some positions may require a master’s degree in public policy, political science, or a related field, especially for more specialized or senior roles.

This higher education often includes advanced studies in policy analysis, program evaluation, and research methods.

Additionally, internships or research work during university can provide valuable hands-on experience.

Some Policy Research Assistants also pursue certification in areas such as data analysis or project management to further enhance their skills and knowledge.

Continuing education is essential in this role to stay updated on policy issues, research methodologies, and data analysis techniques.

 

Policy Research Assistant Salary Expectations

A Policy Research Assistant earns an average salary of $45,372 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can differ based on factors such as experience, educational qualifications, and the location of employment.

The organization or institution that the assistant works for can also significantly influence their salary.

 

Policy Research Assistant Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Policy Research Assistant need?

A Policy Research Assistant should have strong analytical skills, as they will need to examine and interpret a wide range of data related to policy issues.

They must also have excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively present their findings to policy makers.

Attention to detail is crucial, as well as the ability to work independently and on a team.

Experience or knowledge in specific policy areas could also be beneficial.

 

Do Policy Research Assistants need a degree?

Generally, a Policy Research Assistant would need a bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, economics, or a related field.

Some positions may require or prefer a master’s degree.

The role often serves as a stepping stone for individuals who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees or careers in policy making or related fields.

 

What should you look for in a Policy Research Assistant resume?

A Policy Research Assistant resume should showcase a strong academic background in relevant fields, like public policy or political science.

Look for experience in research, data analysis, and policy evaluation.

Skills in data management software or programming languages may be beneficial.

Consider whether the candidate has knowledge or experience in the specific policy areas your organization deals with.

 

What qualities make a good Policy Research Assistant?

A good Policy Research Assistant has a strong interest in public policy and a commitment to thorough, accurate research.

They are detail-oriented and able to synthesize complex information into clear, concise reports.

They should be self-motivated, capable of working both independently and as part of a team.

Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks at once are also important.

 

What is the role of a Policy Research Assistant in shaping public policy?

A Policy Research Assistant plays a key role in shaping public policy by providing the necessary data and analysis that informs policy decisions.

They conduct research on various policy issues, analyze the implications of different policy options, and present their findings in a way that helps policy makers make informed decisions.

They might also monitor and report on the effects of existing policies.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of being a policy research assistant.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about conducting research.

It’s about shaping policy decisions, one research data at a time.

With our detailed policy research assistant job description template and real-world examples, you’re all geared up to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to precision-tailored job listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of research is part of the bigger policy framework.

Let’s shape that future. Together.