Policy Analyst: Occupations in Alberta

NOC Codes

In Canada, the federal government groups and organizes occupations based on a National Occupational Classification (NOC) system. This alis occupation may not reflect the entire NOC group it is part of. Data for the NOC group can apply across multiple occupations.

The NOC system is updated every 5 years to reflect changes in the labour market. Government forms and labour market data may group and refer to an occupation differently, depending on the system used.

Here is how this occupation has been classified over time.

2006 NOC

4165: Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
4161.4: Science Policy and Program Officers
4162: Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts
4164.1: Social Policy Researchers
4164.3: Housing Policy Analysts
4166: Education Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
4167.4: Recreation, Sports and Fitness Policy Analysts

2006 NOC-S

E039: Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
E031: Natural and Applied Science Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
E032: Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts
E034: Social Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
E035: Education Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
E036: Recreation, Sports and Fitness Program Supervisors and Consultants

2011 NOC

4165: Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4161: Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4162: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
4164: Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4166: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4167: Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC

4165: Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4161: Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4162: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
4164: Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4166: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
4167: Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC

41400: Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
41401: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
41403: Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
41405: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
41406: Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2023 OaSIS

41400.04: Science policy and program officers
41401.00: Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
41403.01: Social policy researchers
41403.03: Housing policy analysts
41405.00: Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
41406.02: Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts

Duties

Updated Mar 31, 2020

Policy analysts review and analyze political, economic, and social events. They raise public awareness of issues and shape government or organizational policy. Policy analysts may specialize in areas such as:

Agriculture
Education
Energy
Environment
Health
Industrial organization
International relations
International trade
Labour
National defence
Public finance
Urban and regional development

Duties vary depending on the employer and policy area. In general, policy analysts:

Maintain, update, and manage databases
Help to prepare strategic and operational plans
Gather and analyze statistical information and write reports
Review, analyze, and advise on federal and provincial legislation, regulations, and policies
Distribute information on programs and policies
Seek input from stakeholders and committees to help identify, scope, and develop policy and advocacy initiatives
Research and write policies for organizations
Monitor trends and emerging issues

In government settings, policy analysts:

Do cost-benefit analyses to identify the best policy positions or initiatives
Recommend how to spend tax dollars to maximize taxpayer benefits
Study policies and programs to assess the need for change and, if required, explore potential alternatives
Monitor social and political trends and policies, and their impact on the economy or population
Provide impartial and objective advice
Implement decisions made by the elected government

Working Conditions

Updated Mar 31, 2020

Strength Required Strength requirements vary

Policy analysts typically work regular business hours in an office setting. They may need to work evenings or weekends to meet deadlines, attend meetings, and finish reports. Policy analysts sometimes travel to attend conferences and meetings.

Work Personalities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2023 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit

Fit Guide

An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.

I

Investigative

This occupation

You

E

Enterprising

C

Conventional

This occupation

You

To find out how well this occupation fits your work personality types, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Science policy and program officers
2023 OaSIS: 41400.04

Click or tap a personality type for its description.

1

Investigative

Investigative jobs are about thinking deeply and solving problems. People in these jobs enjoy learning, asking questions, and doing research. They often study science, nature, or how things work. These jobs need a lot of thinking and often involve working with ideas instead of people. Examples include scientists, lab technicians, and researchers.
2

Enterprising

Enterprising jobs are about leading, selling, or starting new projects. People in these jobs like to take charge, make decisions, and reach goals. They often work in business or politics. These jobs may involve some risk and require strong people skills. Examples include managers, salespeople, and entrepreneurs.
3

Conventional

Conventional jobs involve following rules and working with information. People in these jobs like to keep things organized and follow clear steps. They often work with numbers, files, or data. These jobs usually happen in offices and involve working with data and details more than ideas. Examples include clerks, accountants, and data entry workers.

Find other alis occupations that match this occupation’s work personalities.

Your Work Personalities

To identify or change your work personalities, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit

Fit Guide

An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.

I

Investigative

This occupation

You

C

Conventional

E

Enterprising

This occupation

You

To find out how well this occupation fits your work personality types, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41401.00

Click or tap a personality type for its description.

1

Investigative

Investigative jobs are about thinking deeply and solving problems. People in these jobs enjoy learning, asking questions, and doing research. They often study science, nature, or how things work. These jobs need a lot of thinking and often involve working with ideas instead of people. Examples include scientists, lab technicians, and researchers.
2

Conventional

Conventional jobs involve following rules and working with information. People in these jobs like to keep things organized and follow clear steps. They often work with numbers, files, or data. These jobs usually happen in offices and involve working with data and details more than ideas. Examples include clerks, accountants, and data entry workers.
3

Enterprising

Enterprising jobs are about leading, selling, or starting new projects. People in these jobs like to take charge, make decisions, and reach goals. They often work in business or politics. These jobs may involve some risk and require strong people skills. Examples include managers, salespeople, and entrepreneurs.

Find other alis occupations that match this occupation’s work personalities.

Your Work Personalities

To identify or change your work personalities, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit

Fit Guide

An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.

I

Investigative

This occupation

You

C

Conventional

S

Social

This occupation

You

To find out how well this occupation fits your work personality types, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Social policy researchers
2023 OaSIS: 41403.01

Click or tap a personality type for its description.

1

Investigative

Investigative jobs are about thinking deeply and solving problems. People in these jobs enjoy learning, asking questions, and doing research. They often study science, nature, or how things work. These jobs need a lot of thinking and often involve working with ideas instead of people. Examples include scientists, lab technicians, and researchers.
2

Conventional

Conventional jobs involve following rules and working with information. People in these jobs like to keep things organized and follow clear steps. They often work with numbers, files, or data. These jobs usually happen in offices and involve working with data and details more than ideas. Examples include clerks, accountants, and data entry workers.
3

Social

Social jobs are about helping and working with people. People in these jobs enjoy teaching, caring for others, or giving advice. They often work in schools, hospitals, or community centres. These jobs involve talking, listening, and supporting others. Examples include teachers, nurses, and counsellors.

Find other alis occupations that match this occupation’s work personalities.

Your Work Personalities

To identify or change your work personalities, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit

Fit Guide

An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.

I

Investigative

This occupation

You

E

Enterprising

C

Conventional

This occupation

You

To find out how well this occupation fits your work personality types, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Housing policy analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41403.03

Click or tap a personality type for its description.

1

Investigative

Investigative jobs are about thinking deeply and solving problems. People in these jobs enjoy learning, asking questions, and doing research. They often study science, nature, or how things work. These jobs need a lot of thinking and often involve working with ideas instead of people. Examples include scientists, lab technicians, and researchers.
2

Enterprising

Enterprising jobs are about leading, selling, or starting new projects. People in these jobs like to take charge, make decisions, and reach goals. They often work in business or politics. These jobs may involve some risk and require strong people skills. Examples include managers, salespeople, and entrepreneurs.
3

Conventional

Conventional jobs involve following rules and working with information. People in these jobs like to keep things organized and follow clear steps. They often work with numbers, files, or data. These jobs usually happen in offices and involve working with data and details more than ideas. Examples include clerks, accountants, and data entry workers.

Find other alis occupations that match this occupation’s work personalities.

Your Work Personalities

To identify or change your work personalities, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit

Fit Guide

An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.

I

Investigative

This occupation

You

C

Conventional

E

Enterprising

This occupation

You

To find out how well this occupation fits your work personality types, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2023 OaSIS: 41405.00

Click or tap a personality type for its description.

1

Investigative

Investigative jobs are about thinking deeply and solving problems. People in these jobs enjoy learning, asking questions, and doing research. They often study science, nature, or how things work. These jobs need a lot of thinking and often involve working with ideas instead of people. Examples include scientists, lab technicians, and researchers.
2

Conventional

Conventional jobs involve following rules and working with information. People in these jobs like to keep things organized and follow clear steps. They often work with numbers, files, or data. These jobs usually happen in offices and involve working with data and details more than ideas. Examples include clerks, accountants, and data entry workers.
3

Enterprising

Enterprising jobs are about leading, selling, or starting new projects. People in these jobs like to take charge, make decisions, and reach goals. They often work in business or politics. These jobs may involve some risk and require strong people skills. Examples include managers, salespeople, and entrepreneurs.

Find other alis occupations that match this occupation’s work personalities.

Your Work Personalities

To identify or change your work personalities, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

Fit

Fit Guide

An occupation can be a great, good, fair, weak, or poor fit for you.

I

Investigative

This occupation

You

C

Conventional

E

Enterprising

This occupation

You

To find out how well this occupation fits your work personality types, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41406.02

Click or tap a personality type for its description.

1

Investigative

Investigative jobs are about thinking deeply and solving problems. People in these jobs enjoy learning, asking questions, and doing research. They often study science, nature, or how things work. These jobs need a lot of thinking and often involve working with ideas instead of people. Examples include scientists, lab technicians, and researchers.
2

Conventional

Conventional jobs involve following rules and working with information. People in these jobs like to keep things organized and follow clear steps. They often work with numbers, files, or data. These jobs usually happen in offices and involve working with data and details more than ideas. Examples include clerks, accountants, and data entry workers.
3

Enterprising

Enterprising jobs are about leading, selling, or starting new projects. People in these jobs like to take charge, make decisions, and reach goals. They often work in business or politics. These jobs may involve some risk and require strong people skills. Examples include managers, salespeople, and entrepreneurs.

Find other alis occupations that match this occupation’s work personalities.

Your Work Personalities

To identify or change your work personalities, complete the Work Personalities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Quick Guide

Alis work personalities are based on Holland’s theory. It identifies 6 personality types: Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional. People with similar personalities and interests will tend to pursue similar careers. They are likely to create work environments that are favourable to their type.

Most people will identify with 2 or 3 dominant personalities. If the occupation’s personalities match your more dominant types, this occupation is more likely to be satisfying and rewarding to you.

This Occupation’s Work Personalities lists the personalities most likely to be found in that occupation. They are listed in order of importance, with 1 as the most important.

Your Work Personalities shows where the occupation’s personalities rank within your test results. Rank 1 is your most dominant type and 6 is your least dominant.

Learn about work personalities

Abilities

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2023 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Science policy and program officers
2023 OaSIS: 41400.04

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

To find out how well this occupation fits your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Inductive Reasoning

Verbal Ability

Information Ordering

Categorization Flexibility

Deductive Reasoning

Fluency of Ideas

Problem Identification

Written Comprehension

Written Expression

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Memorizing

Perceptual Speed

Pattern Organization Speed

Numerical Ability

Mathematical Reasoning

Multitasking

Pattern Identification

Spatial Orientation

Spatial Visualization

Selective Attention

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Stamina

Static Strength

Trunk Strength

Explosive Strength

Body Flexibility

Dynamic Strength

Gross Body Coordination

Gross Body Equilibrium

Multi-Limb Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Finger-Hand-Wrist Motion

Rate Control

Arm-Hand Steadiness

Control of Settings

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Multi-Signal Response

Reaction Time

Speed of Limb Movement

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking.

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Hearing Sensitivity

Speech Clarity

Peripheral Vision

Auditory Attention

Depth Perception

Far Vision

Glare Tolerance

Near Vision

Night Vision

Speech Recognition

Sound Localization

Colour Perception

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41401.00

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

To find out how well this occupation fits your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Inductive Reasoning

Verbal Ability

Information Ordering

Categorization Flexibility

Deductive Reasoning

Fluency of Ideas

Problem Identification

Written Comprehension

Written Expression

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Memorizing

Perceptual Speed

Pattern Organization Speed

Numerical Ability

Mathematical Reasoning

Multitasking

Pattern Identification

Spatial Orientation

Spatial Visualization

Selective Attention

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Stamina

Static Strength

Trunk Strength

Explosive Strength

Body Flexibility

Dynamic Strength

Gross Body Coordination

Gross Body Equilibrium

Multi-Limb Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Finger-Hand-Wrist Motion

Rate Control

Arm-Hand Steadiness

Control of Settings

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Multi-Signal Response

Reaction Time

Speed of Limb Movement

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking.

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Hearing Sensitivity

Speech Clarity

Peripheral Vision

Auditory Attention

Depth Perception

Far Vision

Glare Tolerance

Near Vision

Night Vision

Speech Recognition

Sound Localization

Colour Perception

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Social policy researchers
2023 OaSIS: 41403.01

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

To find out how well this occupation fits your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Inductive Reasoning

Verbal Ability

Information Ordering

Categorization Flexibility

Deductive Reasoning

Fluency of Ideas

Problem Identification

Written Comprehension

Written Expression

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Memorizing

Perceptual Speed

Pattern Organization Speed

Numerical Ability

Mathematical Reasoning

Multitasking

Pattern Identification

Spatial Orientation

Spatial Visualization

Selective Attention

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Stamina

Static Strength

Trunk Strength

Explosive Strength

Body Flexibility

Dynamic Strength

Gross Body Coordination

Gross Body Equilibrium

Multi-Limb Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Finger-Hand-Wrist Motion

Rate Control

Arm-Hand Steadiness

Control of Settings

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Multi-Signal Response

Reaction Time

Speed of Limb Movement

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking.

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Hearing Sensitivity

Speech Clarity

Peripheral Vision

Auditory Attention

Depth Perception

Far Vision

Glare Tolerance

Near Vision

Night Vision

Speech Recognition

Sound Localization

Colour Perception

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Housing policy analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41403.03

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

To find out how well this occupation fits your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Inductive Reasoning

Verbal Ability

Information Ordering

Categorization Flexibility

Deductive Reasoning

Fluency of Ideas

Problem Identification

Written Comprehension

Written Expression

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Memorizing

Perceptual Speed

Pattern Organization Speed

Numerical Ability

Mathematical Reasoning

Multitasking

Pattern Identification

Spatial Orientation

Spatial Visualization

Selective Attention

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Stamina

Static Strength

Trunk Strength

Explosive Strength

Body Flexibility

Dynamic Strength

Gross Body Coordination

Gross Body Equilibrium

Multi-Limb Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Finger-Hand-Wrist Motion

Rate Control

Arm-Hand Steadiness

Control of Settings

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Multi-Signal Response

Reaction Time

Speed of Limb Movement

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking.

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Hearing Sensitivity

Speech Clarity

Peripheral Vision

Auditory Attention

Depth Perception

Far Vision

Glare Tolerance

Near Vision

Night Vision

Speech Recognition

Sound Localization

Colour Perception

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2023 OaSIS: 41405.00

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

To find out how well this occupation fits your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Inductive Reasoning

Verbal Ability

Information Ordering

Categorization Flexibility

Deductive Reasoning

Fluency of Ideas

Problem Identification

Written Comprehension

Written Expression

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Memorizing

Perceptual Speed

Pattern Organization Speed

Numerical Ability

Mathematical Reasoning

Multitasking

Pattern Identification

Spatial Orientation

Spatial Visualization

Selective Attention

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Stamina

Static Strength

Trunk Strength

Explosive Strength

Body Flexibility

Dynamic Strength

Gross Body Coordination

Gross Body Equilibrium

Multi-Limb Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Finger-Hand-Wrist Motion

Rate Control

Arm-Hand Steadiness

Control of Settings

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Multi-Signal Response

Reaction Time

Speed of Limb Movement

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking.

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Hearing Sensitivity

Speech Clarity

Peripheral Vision

Auditory Attention

Depth Perception

Far Vision

Glare Tolerance

Near Vision

Night Vision

Speech Recognition

Sound Localization

Colour Perception

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41406.02

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

The graph below shows how well your scores match the overall abilities for this occupation.

The closer your ability scores are to the center, the more they match this occupation’s. The further away they are, the less they match this occupation’s.

The lower your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the more challenging the occupation will likely be for you. The higher your ability scores are compared to the occupation’s, the less challenging the occupation will likely be for you.

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

To find out how well this occupation fits your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Abilities Sets

The 49 abilities are grouped into 5 abilities sets: Critical Thinking, Numbers and Patterns, Physical Activity, Mind-Body Coordination, and Senses.

Some abilities are more relevant to an occupation than other abilities. Individual abilities that are not relevant to an occupation are greyed out.

To fill in or change the values for your abilities, complete the Abilities Quiz in Find Your Fit.

Critical Thinking

Critical Thinking includes 9 abilities related to identifying and solving problems, thinking of ideas, and communication, such as speaking and writing.

This is how well your scores match the set of Critical Thinking abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Inductive Reasoning

Verbal Ability

Information Ordering

Categorization Flexibility

Deductive Reasoning

Fluency of Ideas

Problem Identification

Written Comprehension

Written Expression

Numbers and Patterns

Numbers and Patterns includes 10 abilities related to math, memorizing, and multitasking. It also includes how we perceive patterns, shapes, and distances.

This is how well your scores match the set of Numbers and Patterns abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Memorizing

Perceptual Speed

Pattern Organization Speed

Numerical Ability

Mathematical Reasoning

Multitasking

Pattern Identification

Spatial Orientation

Spatial Visualization

Selective Attention

Physical Activity

Physical Activity includes 9 abilities related to strength, balance, flexibility, coordination, and endurance.

This is how well your scores match the set of Physical Activity abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Stamina

Static Strength

Trunk Strength

Explosive Strength

Body Flexibility

Dynamic Strength

Gross Body Coordination

Gross Body Equilibrium

Multi-Limb Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination

Mind-Body Coordination includes 9 abilities related to movement control and how we react to signals. It also includes fine motor skills, such finger and hand dexterity and hand-eye coordination.

This is how well your scores match the set of Mind-Body Coordination abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Finger-Hand-Wrist Motion

Rate Control

Arm-Hand Steadiness

Control of Settings

Finger Dexterity

Manual Dexterity

Multi-Signal Response

Reaction Time

Speed of Limb Movement

Senses

Senses includes 12 abilities related to seeing, hearing, and speaking.

This is how well your scores match the set of Senses abilities for this occupation:

lower

a match

higher

Typical ability expectations for this NOC group

Your abilities

Individual Abilities

Compare this occupation's score with yours for each ability in the set.

Hearing Sensitivity

Speech Clarity

Peripheral Vision

Auditory Attention

Depth Perception

Far Vision

Glare Tolerance

Near Vision

Night Vision

Speech Recognition

Sound Localization

Colour Perception

Quick Guide

The abilities or aptitudes shown for this NOC group come from the Occupational and Skills Information System (OaSIS).

The abilities scores range from 1 to 5, with 5 being stronger.

Occupations use different combinations and levels of these abilities. The Abilities Quiz helps you learn more about your ability levels and which occupations match your strengths.

If you have completed the Abilities Quiz, you can compare the occupation’s ability expectations to your own ability scores. Your scores may be lower than, a match to, or higher than the occupation’s expected abilities.

Learn about abilities

Traits & Skills

Updated Mar 31, 2020

Policy analysts need:

Logical thinking
Attention to detail
The ability to analyze complex problems
The ability to express complex ideas in plain language, both in person and on paper
Skills in analyzing data, statistics, and economic information
Interpersonal skills

They should have an interest in current events and enjoy collaborating with others.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups. If there are multiple related NOC groups, select a NOC heading to learn about each one.

Top 10 Skills Employers Are Looking For

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4161

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 56 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Oct 27, 2021 and Oct 06, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
What training you may need to get these skills
What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.

Green Job: Involves duties and responsibilities that lead to positive environmental outcomes

Excellent written communication

Excellent oral communication

Flexibility

Team player

Accurate

Environment

Work under pressure

Specialized environmental skills and knowledge

Tasks: Provide consulting services to government and other organizations

Green Job: Involves duties and responsibilities that lead to positive environmental outcomes	29
Construction Specialization: Excellent written communication	21
Construction Specialization: Excellent oral communication	21
Construction Specialization: Flexibility	21
Construction Specialization: Team player	20
Construction Specialization: Accurate	20
Environment	19
Work under pressure	18
Specialized environmental skills and knowledge	17
Tasks: Provide consulting services to government and other organizations	17

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts

2016 NOC: 4162

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 12 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Jan 09, 2022 and Sep 01, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
What training you may need to get these skills
What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.

Team player

Organized

Initiative

Tasks: Conduct research

Current analysis

Market analysis

Research

Excellent written communication

Accurate

Tasks: Develop models to analyze, explain and forecast economic behaviour and patterns

Construction Specialization: Team player	8
Construction Specialization: Organized	8
Construction Specialization: Initiative	8
Tasks: Conduct research	8
Current analysis	7
Market analysis	7
Research	7
Construction Specialization: Excellent written communication	7
Construction Specialization: Accurate	7
Tasks: Develop models to analyze, explain and forecast economic behaviour and patterns	7

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4164

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 100 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Jun 13, 2022 and Oct 08, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
What training you may need to get these skills
What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.

Attention to detail

Excellent written communication

Organized

Dependability

Excellent oral communication

Accurate

Reliability

Client focus

Work under pressure

Effective interpersonal skills

Attention to detail	69
Construction Specialization: Excellent written communication	65
Construction Specialization: Organized	65
Construction Specialization: Dependability	64
Construction Specialization: Excellent oral communication	64
Construction Specialization: Accurate	63
Construction Specialization: Reliability	62
Construction Specialization: Client focus	59
Work under pressure	57
Construction Specialization: Effective interpersonal skills	55

Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4165

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 33 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Dec 24, 2021 and Jul 02, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
What training you may need to get these skills
What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.

Tasks: Produce reports

Team player

Excellent written communication

Tasks: Develop policies, standards and guidelines

Security and Safety: Criminal record check

Tasks: Provide advice to senior managers and officials

Tasks: Conduct evaluations and assessments of health projects and programs

Tasks: Perform administrative tasks

Control Systems: Addiction or substance abuse

Tasks: Act as liaison within organization between staff and management around wellness issues

Tasks: Produce reports	20
Construction Specialization: Team player	18
Construction Specialization: Excellent written communication	16
Tasks: Develop policies, standards and guidelines	15
Security and Safety: Criminal record check	14
Tasks: Provide advice to senior managers and officials	14
Tasks: Conduct evaluations and assessments of health projects and programs	14
Tasks: Perform administrative tasks	14
Control Systems: Addiction or substance abuse	14
Tasks: Act as liaison within organization between staff and management around wellness issues	13

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4166

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 41 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Nov 19, 2021 and Sep 27, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
What training you may need to get these skills
What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.

Excellent oral communication

Excellent written communication

Team player

Tasks: Produce reports

Tasks: Develop teaching materials and other resources for program delivery

Tasks: Administer education policies and programs

Effective interpersonal skills

Tasks: Perform administrative tasks

Tasks: Evaluate curriculum programs and recommend improvements

Flexibility

Construction Specialization: Excellent oral communication	24
Construction Specialization: Excellent written communication	23
Construction Specialization: Team player	22
Tasks: Produce reports	21
Tasks: Develop teaching materials and other resources for program delivery	21
Tasks: Administer education policies and programs	21
Construction Specialization: Effective interpersonal skills	20
Tasks: Perform administrative tasks	20
Tasks: Evaluate curriculum programs and recommend improvements	18
Construction Specialization: Flexibility	16

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4167

This chart shows which job skills are currently in highest demand for this occupational group. It was created using this occupation's 35 most recent Alberta job postings, collected between Apr 28, 2022 and Oct 03, 2025.

Review these skills to learn:

Whether or not this occupation matches your skill set
What training you may need to get these skills
What skills to highlight in your resumé, cover letter, and interview.

Tasks: Perform administrative tasks

Tasks: Co-ordinate special events

Tasks: Supervise professional staff, program leaders and instructors and volunteer staff

Tasks: Provide expert advice and consulting services in the design, development and administration of sports, fitness and recreation programs and activities

Tasks: Prepare research papers, educational texts or articles

Tasks: Write proposals and press statements for corporations, industry and the fitness community

Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years

Organized

Tasks: Conduct research and develop government policies related to recreation, sports, fitness and athletic safety and standards

Team player

Tasks: Perform administrative tasks	22
Tasks: Co-ordinate special events	21
Tasks: Supervise professional staff, program leaders and instructors and volunteer staff	21
Tasks: Provide expert advice and consulting services in the design, development and administration of sports, fitness and recreation programs and activities	21
Tasks: Prepare research papers, educational texts or articles	20
Tasks: Write proposals and press statements for corporations, industry and the fitness community	16
Experience: 1 year to less than 2 years	9
Construction Specialization: Organized	8
Tasks: Conduct research and develop government policies related to recreation, sports, fitness and athletic safety and standards	8
Construction Specialization: Team player	7

Educational Requirements

Updated Mar 31, 2020

Minimum Education 4 years post-secondary

Some entry-level policy analyst positions require only a bachelor’s degree. However, a master’s or doctoral degree is often required for professional advancement. A wide range of university majors can prepare someone for a career as a policy analyst. Common fields of study include policy studies, political science, sociology, economics, law, public policy, and international relations. A security background check may be needed to work in this occupation.

Related Education

The following schools offer programs or courses that are related to this occupation but are not required to enter the field.

Athabasca University

Concordia University of Edmonton

Bachelor of Arts - Sociology

Grant MacEwan University

Keyano College

Governance and Civil Studies

MaKami College

Applied Politics and Public Affairs Specialist

Mount Royal University

Red Deer Polytechnic

The King's University

University of Alberta

University of Calgary

University of Lethbridge

University of Victoria

Adult and Continuing Education

To expand or narrow your program options, visit Post-Secondary Programs and start your search with:

Policy Analyst
2006 NOC 4165: Health Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
2006 NOC 4161.4: Science Policy and Program Officers
2006 NOC 4162: Economists and Economic Policy Researchers and Analysts
2006 NOC 4164.1: Social Policy Researchers
2006 NOC 4164.3: Housing Policy Analysts
2006 NOC 4166: Education Policy Researchers, Consultants and Program Officers
2006 NOC 4167.4: Recreation, Sports and Fitness Policy Analysts

Completing a program does not guarantee entrance into an occupation. Before enrolling in an education program, prospective students should look into various sources for education options and employment possibilities. For example, contact associations and employers in this field.

Certification Requirements

Updated Mar 31, 2020

Certification Not regulated

There is currently no provincial legislation regulating this occupation in Alberta.

Employment & Advancement

Updated Mar 31, 2020

- 3-Year Forecast Hot
- Employed in AB 6,600
- Source: 2024-2026 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast
- 5-Year Forecast Below avg (2.1%)
- New Positions 120
- Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Policy analysts may work for:

Government departments and agencies
Research institutions, such as universities
Policy think tanks
Consulting firms
Regional economic development partnerships
Political parties

Experienced policy analysts may advance to positions as senior managers or directors.

Industry Concentration

This section shows the industries where the majority of people in this occupation work. The data is based on the 2016 Census.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4161

75.5% of people in this occupational group work in:

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2016 NOC: 4162

76.6% of people in this occupational group work in:

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4164

85.4% of people in this occupational group work in:

Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4165

80.2% of people in this occupational group work in:

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4166

78.4% of people in this occupational group work in:

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2016 NOC: 4167

84.4% of people in this occupational group work in:

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Look for Work

Think Industries and Sectors When Planning Your Career

Jobs and occupations are changing every day. It can be hard to know what the future of work looks like—but not impossible. Look at industries and sectors for possible inspiration, insights, and opportunities.

3-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the Alberta job market condition, or short-term demand forecast, for this occupation over a 3-year period. It also shows the number of people employed in the occupation.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2021 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41400

Balanced

Job Market

6,900

Employed in AB

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts

2021 NOC: 41401

Cold

Job Market

1,800

Employed in AB

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41403

Hot

Job Market

6,600

Employed in AB

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41405

Cool

Job Market

5,100

Employed in AB

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41406

Warm

Job Market

< 1500

Employed in AB

Source: 2024-2026 Alberta Short-Term Employment Forecast

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

To see data for all occupations, visit Occupations in Demand.

5-Year Job Market Forecast

This section shows the employment outlook for this occupation in Alberta over a 5-year period.

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors including:

Time of year (for seasonal jobs)
Location in Alberta
Employment turnover (when people leave existing positions)
Occupational growth (when new positions are created)
Size of the occupation
Trends and events that affect overall employment, especially in the industry or industries from the previous list

©

iStock.com/filadendron

OCCinfo

Employment Outlook

Employment outlook is influenced by a wide variety of factors. Learn how these factors can affect your career decisions.

In Alberta, this occupation is part of 1 or more 2016 National Occupational Classification (NOC) groups.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4161

2.5%

Annual Growth
(Above average)

109

New Positions

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts

2016 NOC: 4162

2.4%

Annual Growth
(Average)

70

New Positions

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4164

2.2%

Annual Growth
(Below average)

111

New Positions

Health policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4165

2.1%

Annual Growth
(Below average)

120

New Positions

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4166

3.0%

Annual Growth
(Above average)

119

New Positions

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2016 NOC: 4167

2.4%

Annual Growth
(Average)

30

New Positions

Source: 2021-2025 Alberta Regional Occupational Demand Outlook

Annual growth is from 2021 to 2025. New positions created each year are in addition to job openings created by employment turnover.

NOC groups often include several related occupations. Although there is labour market data for the larger NOC group, this occupation makes up only a part of that group. It means data for this occupation may be different than the data shown. For examples, see Note.

Employment turnover is expected to increase as members of the baby boom generation retire over the next few years.

Natural and applied science policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41400

Average Wage

$49.91

Per Hour

Average Salary

$95,853.00

Per Year

Average Hours

37

Per Week

Average Months on Payroll

12

Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2023 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 41400 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Low
High
Average
Median

Starting

Overall

Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Wages*	Low (5th percentile)	High (95th percentile)	Average	Median
Starting	$28.00	$66.31	$41.03	$38.46
Overall	$34.86	$70.50	$49.91	$49.17
Top	$41.96	$84.74	$56.49	$51.52

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES

Professional, Scientific & Technical Services

Public Administration

ALL INDUSTRIES	$95,853
Professional, Scientific & Technical Services	$118,895
Public Administration	$90,762

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years

61%

61%)

Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties

13%

Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months

2%

Vacancy Rate

N/A

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts

2021 NOC: 41401

Average Wage

$50.75

Per Hour

Average Salary

$96,944.00

Per Year

Average Hours

36.6

Per Week

Average Months on Payroll

12

Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2023 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 41401 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Low
High
Average
Median

Starting

Overall

Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Wages*	Low (5th percentile)	High (95th percentile)	Average	Median
Starting	$29.33	$66.26	$44.53	$41.96
Overall	$29.33	$76.15	$50.75	$51.34
Top	$29.33	$84.39	$55.11	$54.52

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES

Public Administration

ALL INDUSTRIES	$96,944
Public Administration	$95,978

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years

34%

34%)

Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties

N/A

Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months

3%

Vacancy Rate

N/A

Social policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41403

Average Wage

$41.93

Per Hour

Average Salary

$79,666.00

Per Year

Average Hours

36.8

Per Week

Average Months on Payroll

11.9

Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2023 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 41403 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Low
High
Average
Median

Starting

Overall

Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Wages*	Low (5th percentile)	High (95th percentile)	Average	Median
Starting	$26.03	$45.50	$35.80	$36.65
Overall	$28.14	$56.74	$41.93	$41.08
Top	$31.81	$73.89	$45.99	$47.05

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES

Health Care & Social Assistance

Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related)

Public Administration

ALL INDUSTRIES	$79,666
Health Care & Social Assistance	$54,139
Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related)	$78,591
Public Administration	$79,986

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years

55%

55%)

Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties

3%

Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months

1%

Vacancy Rate

N/A

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41405

Average Wage

$46.89

Per Hour

Average Salary

$84,899.00

Per Year

Average Hours

35.6

Per Week

Average Months on Payroll

11.8

Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2023 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 41405 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Low
High
Average
Median

Starting

Overall

Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Wages*	Low (5th percentile)	High (95th percentile)	Average	Median
Starting	$18.00	$48.85	$36.04	$36.65
Overall	$24.00	$66.21	$46.89	$48.07
Top	$24.00	$74.95	$51.66	$50.97

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES

Educational Services

Health Care & Social Assistance

Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related)

Public Administration

ALL INDUSTRIES	$84,899
Educational Services	$84,272
Health Care & Social Assistance	$80,155
Other Services (Repair, Personal Services and Related)	$69,733
Public Administration	$89,684

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years

48%

48%)

Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties

30%

Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months

1%

Vacancy Rate

6%

Recreation, sports and fitness policy researchers, consultants and program officers

2021 NOC: 41406

Average Wage

$40.81

Per Hour

Average Salary

$76,766.00

Per Year

Average Hours

36.8

Per Week

Average Months on Payroll

11.8

Survey Methodology Survey Analysis

Source
2023 Alberta Wage and Salary Survey

NOC 41406 Wage Profile

Unless otherwise noted, the data shown here is for all industries and all regions in Alberta.

All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production), and other forms of compensation.

To see the full survey data for this NOC group, visit the wage profile.

Other wage sources
To make an informed wage and salary decision, research other wage sources [pdf] to supplement this data.

A: High Reliability

Data Reliability Code Definition

High Reliability, represents a CV of less than or equal to 6.00% and 30 survey observations and/or represents 50% or more of all estimated employment for the occupation.

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Low
High
Average
Median

Starting

Overall

Top

Hourly Wage

For full-time and part-time employees

Wages*	Low (5th percentile)	High (95th percentile)	Average	Median
Starting	$20.56	$44.34	$34.80	$35.81
Overall	$24.24	$54.94	$40.81	$40.00
Top	$27.00	$64.64	$44.50	$48.02

Swipe left and right to view all data. Scroll left and right to view all data.

* All wage estimates are hourly except where otherwise indicated. Wages and salaries do not include overtime hours, tips, benefits, profit shares, bonuses (unrelated to production) and other forms of compensation.

Pay brackets for hourly wages

Starting pay: average pay offered for entry-level positions
Overall pay: average pay across all employees in this occupation
Top pay: average pay offered to top-paid employees

Industry Information

ALL INDUSTRIES

Information, Culture, Recreation

Health Care & Social Assistance

Public Administration

ALL INDUSTRIES	$76,766
Information, Culture, Recreation	$56,726
Health Care & Social Assistance	$49,093
Public Administration	$84,020

Skills Shortage

Employers that Recruited in the Last 2 Years

39%

39%)

Recruiting Employers that Experienced Hiring Difficulties

9%

Employers with Unfilled Vacancies of over 4 Months

4%

Vacancy Rate

4%

Related High School Subjects

English Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Business, Administration, Finance and IT
- Information Processing
- Management and Marketing
Health, Recreation and Human Services
- Health Care Services
Natural Resources
- Environmental Stewardship

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Policy Analyst

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Science policy and program officers 2023 OaSIS: 41400.04

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts 2023 OaSIS: 41401.00

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Social policy researchers 2023 OaSIS: 41403.01

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Housing policy analysts 2023 OaSIS: 41403.03

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers 2023 OaSIS: 41405.00

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Work Personalities

This Occupation’s Work Personalities

Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts 2023 OaSIS: 41406.02

Your Work Personalities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

Abilities Sets

Critical Thinking

Individual Abilities

Numbers and Patterns

Individual Abilities

Physical Activity

Individual Abilities

Mind-Body Coordination

Individual Abilities

Senses

Individual Abilities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

Abilities Sets

Critical Thinking

Individual Abilities

Numbers and Patterns

Individual Abilities

Physical Activity

Individual Abilities

Mind-Body Coordination

Individual Abilities

Senses

Individual Abilities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

Abilities Sets

Critical Thinking

Individual Abilities

Numbers and Patterns

Individual Abilities

Physical Activity

Individual Abilities

Mind-Body Coordination

Individual Abilities

Senses

Individual Abilities

Quick Guide

How This Occupation Compares to Your Abilities

Abilities Sets

Critical Thinking

Science policy and program officers
2023 OaSIS: 41400.04

Economists and economic policy researchers and analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41401.00

Social policy researchers
2023 OaSIS: 41403.01

Housing policy analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41403.03

Education policy researchers, consultants and program officers
2023 OaSIS: 41405.00

Recreation, sports and fitness policy analysts
2023 OaSIS: 41406.02