Policy Analyst

State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO) • Washington, DC

6h • $65,000 - $75,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

SHEEO is seeking a Policy Analyst to support research, analysis, and projects that help states strengthen postsecondary education policy and improve student outcomes. The Policy Analyst will contribute to the development of briefs, reports, presentations, data tools, and other resources that make policy and research information accessible and useful for state higher education leaders and policymakers. This role supports a range of topics that may include college attainment, student success, data systems, economic development and workforce alignment, and higher education finance. Day-to-day responsibilities include conducting research and analysis, supporting project coordination and implementation, assisting with member engagement and technical assistance, and contributing to the planning and execution of convenings. Strong candidates will demonstrate the ability to communicate complex information clearly, manage competing priorities, and work effectively across teams. This position offers an opportunity to deepen expertise in state higher education policy while working closely with national leaders, policymakers, and partner organizations.

Requirements

• At least three years of experience in policy analysis, research, or a comparable role.
• A master’s degree in a related field; a bachelor’s degree in a related field combined with additional professional experience may be considered.
• Experience supporting projects or research initiatives, including coordinating tasks, timelines, and deliverables.
• Experience supporting members, constituents, or external stakeholders in a professional association or policy environment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of or interest in state higher education policy areas, such as student success, data systems, workforce alignment, or postsecondary finance.
• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to interpret research, policy, and data, and communicate information clearly for state policymakers and practitioners.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, SPSS, R) and/or data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and analysis on state higher education policy to inform projects, reports, and organizational priorities.
• Draft briefs, reports, dashboards, presentations, and other materials that communicate findings to policymakers, members, and other audiences.
• Support SHEEO members by responding to information requests and contributing to technical assistance activities.
• Attend state, regional, and national meetings; contribute to agenda development, logistics, and execution of SHEEO-hosted events.
• Monitor trends and developments in state higher education policy and contribute to internal knowledge and learning resources.
• Coordinate project communications, meeting materials, timelines, and logistics related to SHEEO initiatives, convenings, and member engagement activities.
• Support project planning, coordination, and implementation across research and policy initiatives.

Benefits

• A 10% contribution to employees’ retirement plans.
• 22 days of annual vacation, 11 paid holidays, 12 sick days, and office closure from December 25 through January 1.
• Subsidized health insurance (SHEEO covers 87% of plan costs).
• Dental, vision, flexible spending accounts, life and disability insurance.
• Professional development support, including funding for conferences, meetings, and short-term courses aligned with employees’ responsibilities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level