Senior Higher Education Policy Lead

State Higher Education Executive Officers Association (SHEEO); Washington, Boulder (District of Columbia, CO); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement contribution

Vacation + holidays

Health insurance (SHEEO covers 85%)

Professional development

Job summary

SHEEO is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to lead multi-state projects, translate policy and research into actionable strategies, and provide technical assistance to state higher education agencies. The role emphasizes collaboration, grant management, and dissemination of policy-ready insights.

The position involves coordinating across states, developing briefs and presentations, and contributing to member support activities, with occasional travel to meetings and events as needed.

Qualifications

• PhD in higher education, public policy, or related field (or Master’s with significant relevant experience).
• 5+ years of progressively responsible experience in a similar role.
• Experience managing multi-state projects or initiatives.
• Experience providing technical assistance to states, institutions, or partners.
• Ability to translate complex information into clear policy briefs, presentations, or tools.
• Knowledge of state policy areas such as attainment, student success, data systems, or postsecondary finance.
• Strong analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience collaborating with state agencies, higher education systems, or philanthropic partners is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects and grants from planning through execution, ensuring milestones and deadlines are met.
• Provide technical assistance to SHEEO members with practical guidance for policy development and implementation.
• Develop briefs, reports, presentations, and tools translating analysis into actionable insights for state leaders.
• Conduct analysis of state higher education data and policy to inform initiatives.
• Represent SHEEO at meetings and events; contribute to planning and execution of convenings.
• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with member agencies and partners.
• Identify opportunities for new projects and funding partnerships.
• Monitor trends in public higher education and contribute to strategic priorities.

Skills

Project management

Policy analysis

Data-to-insights

Stakeholder coordination

Communication

Education

Doctoral degree in higher education/public policy

Master's degree with relevant experience

Job description

SHEEO is seeking a Senior Policy Analyst to lead multi-state projects, translate policy and research into actionable strategies, and provide technical assistance to state higher education agencies. The role emphasizes collaboration, grant management, and dissemination of policy-ready insights.

The position involves coordinating across states, developing briefs and presentations, and contributing to member support activities, with occasional travel to meetings and events as needed.