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Policy Research Consultant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

KJT Group

Research Consultant

$75K - $85K/yr

The Research Consultant will contribute to or lead the design, execution, and analysis of health ... Security Policy and all other policies, processes, and documentation related to information ...

ARC Group

Medical Research Consultant

Jacksonville, FL · Remote

MEDICAL RESEARCH CONSULTANT REMOTE ARC Group has an immediate opportunity for a Medical Research ... Policy Writing -- 20% o Development of summary and analysis of evidence for inclusion in LCDs to ...

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Policy Research Consultant information

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How much do policy research consultant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for policy research consultant in the United States is $39.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.01 and $48.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the most common challenges faced by Policy Research Consultants when working with diverse stakeholders?

Policy Research Consultants often collaborate with stakeholders who have differing priorities, perspectives, and levels of expertise. One common challenge is ensuring that research findings are communicated clearly and persuasively to both technical and non-technical audiences. Additionally, balancing the needs of multiple clients while maintaining objectivity and methodological rigor can be demanding. Effective consultants use strong interpersonal and project management skills to navigate these complexities and build consensus around policy recommendations.

What is the difference between Policy Research Consultant vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy Research ConsultantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields; research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Public Policy, Political Science, or related fields; analytical skills
Work EnvironmentConsulting firms, government agencies, NGOsGovernment departments, think tanks, research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by organizations seeking external expertise for policy researchUsed internally within government or organizations analyzing policies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, responsibilities, and qualificationsComparing job functions and career paths

The main difference is that a Policy Research Consultant typically provides external research expertise on a project basis, often working with multiple clients or organizations. In contrast, a Policy Analyst usually works internally within government or organizations to analyze and develop policies. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and research skills, but their work settings and responsibilities differ.

What does a Policy Research Consultant do?

A Policy Research Consultant analyzes policies and legislation, conducts research on social, economic, or political issues, and provides recommendations to organizations or government bodies. They gather and interpret data, evaluate policy impacts, and prepare reports or presentations to support decision-making. Their work helps clients develop informed strategies, improve existing policies, or advocate for new policy initiatives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Policy Research Consultant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Research Consultant, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in policy analysis, and a relevant degree such as public policy, political science, or economics. Familiarity with data analysis software, statistical tools, and literature review databases is commonly required, along with experience drafting policy briefs or reports. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement abilities distinguish top performers in this field. These competencies are vital for delivering evidence-based recommendations that influence effective policy decisions and drive organizational objectives.
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Policy Research Consultant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Research Consultant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,905 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Policy & Research Advisory Committee

Education Justice Project

Champaign, IL

$25/hr

Contractor

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

The Education Justice Project (EJP) is a unit of the College of Education at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a comprehensive college-in-prison program. The mission of EJP is to build a model college-in-prison program that demonstrates the positive effects of higher education on incarcerated students, their families, the communities to which they return, the host institution, and society as a whole. To accomplish this mission, EJP developed several programs and initiatives, including a Policy & Research Division.

The mission of EJP's Policy & Research Division is to educate and equip relevant stakeholders with knowledge, skills, and confidence to produce research and practice civic engagement that promotes equity-focused and evidence-based policymaking related to higher education in prison, reentry, and other relevant issues. We work to challenge the dominant narrative around incarceration, mitigate the impacts of incarceration, support the creation of more humane and just responses to harm and violence, and allow college-in-prison programs to flourish only as long as prisons exist.

In order to ground our policy and research work in the experiences of system-impacted people, we are recruiting a committee of advisors who have experience with policy work and higher education in prison. Advisors will provide guidance to the Policy & Research Team, drawing upon their lived expertise. They are also encouraged to participate in internal and external events that align with EJP's policy & research work.

This is a paid consultant position. Compensation is $25/hour, up to $2,500/year and committee members are expected to commit 8 to 10 hours per month. Advisory committee members will serve a 2-year term.


Responsibilities and Duties

  • Advise the EJP policy & research director in relation to specific projects and initiatives, including but not limited to:
    • feedback on policy & research division SMART goals
    • guidance on policy agenda and strategy
    • input on specific legislation and policies
  • Provide other consultation and technical assistance as requested regarding the division's work
  • Attend quarterly advisory committee meetings, monthly team meetings, and ad hoc meetings as needed;


Required Qualifications

  • Familiarity with Illinois' criminal legal systems and policies, especially as it relates to higher education in prison and reentry;
  • Strong teamwork, communication, and organizational skills;
  • Proven dependability and reliability;
  • Demonstrated commitment to educational equity and evidence-based policy

Preferred Qualifications

  • Prior involvement in a prison education program within the Illinois Department of Corrections;
  • Experience serving as a consultant or advisor.

Apply by April 30, 2026 for priority consideration. To apply, please complete the application by clicking on the blue 'Apply for This Job' button in the top right corner.

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