Senior Policy Analyst, Center for Higher Education

Policy Department

Overall Responsibility:

The America First Policy Institute (AFPI) is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to support the work of its Higher Education policy center. This position will play a key role in advancing AFPI’s mission by conducting timely research, producing strategic policy content, and engaging with both internal teams and national thought leaders. The ideal candidate is a proactive, policy-savvy individual with exceptional writing skills and a comprehensive understanding of the regulatory, cultural, and political dynamics shaping U.S. higher education.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Conduct in-depth research and analysis of higher education issues such as affordability, accreditation, student loans, academic freedom, free expression, institutional reform, federal funding, aligning degrees to labor markets, apprenticeships, and other workforce development programs.
Author and edit a wide array of policy content, including white papers, opinion pieces, congressional testimony, and blog posts aligned with AFPI’s priorities.
Track and assess federal and state legislation, regulatory developments, and legal rulings impacting higher education; identify strategic opportunities for AFPI involvement.
Develop actionable, principle-driven policy recommendations rooted in AFPI’s mission.
Provide thoughtful peer review for internal publications and support a culture of rigorous, high-quality policy development.
Partner with leadership and communications teams to craft targeted messaging, plan events, and support dissemination of key policy positions.
Represent AFPI in meetings with policymakers, academic leaders, media, and other stakeholders in the higher education space.

Qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree, or equivalent experience in a relevant field preferred.
3–5 years of experience in higher education policy, government relations, think tank research, or academic administration.
Strong command of the U.S. higher education system and the policy processes that influence it.
Proven ability to translate complex issues into accessible, persuasive, and impactful written materials.
Track record of successfully managing multiple projects in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including comfort presenting to senior leadership and external partners.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite; familiarity with data tools such as Excel, R, Stata, or Tableau is a plus.
Alignment with AFPI’s mission and commitment to restoring excellence, accountability, and freedom in American education.

Salaries for positions will be commensurate with the experience, expertise, and skills of the individual. Please send a cover letter, resume, salary requirements, writing samples, and references.

AFPI is a non-profit, non-partisan research institute offering competitive salaries and benefits to qualified candidates.

Back To Careers

Apply for this Job

Position: *

First Name *

Last Name *

Phone *

Email *

Zip *

Salary Expectation *

Resume: *

Cover Letter:

Writing Sample:

Yes, I would like to sign up for text notifications from America First Policy Institute.

Untitled

By providing your information, you become a member of America First Policy Institute and consent to receive emails. By checking the opt in box, you consent to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Text STOP to opt-out or HELP for help. SMS opt in will not be sold, rented, or shared. You can view our Privacy Policy and Mobile Terms of Service here.