A policy writer's job is to make sure employees understand their employer's rules and regulations. Policy writers must keep records of any policy changes and address them in the company manual. A bachelor's degree is commonly required, but those with graduate degrees may have more opportunities to earn higher wages.
Essential Information
Policy writers work to ensure that company procedures and policies are understood by every employee within the company. They can work in many positions, but they're often employed as training and development managers through the human resources department. Education requirements vary, depending on the company and the position, but a bachelor's degree is typical. Individuals with graduate degrees may have higher earning potential.
| Required Education | Bachelor's degree |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 9% increase for training and development specialists |
| Median Annual Salary (2019)* | $61,210 for training and development specialists |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Job Description of a Policy Writer
Policy writers compose, maintain and clarify the policies and procedures of the company, organization or corporation for which they work. Often assigned with the task of writing a policy manual, as well as the procedures by which to introduce such changes to the manual, policy writers act as liaisons between employees and employers vis-à-vis corporate or company guidelines. In addition, policy writers introduce these company policies internally and externally. Beyond introducing new rules and programs, policy writers often ensure the implementation of new and revised policies and guidelines.
Job Duties of a Policy Writer
Written policy must be simple and clear so that it can be easily understood by every employee. Policy must also be comprehensive and able to address questions or situations that may arise. Such work requires that policy writers be aware of these potential situations or questions at every level of the company or corporation's work. Maintaining policy manuals requires that policy writers keep accurate files. All updates, revisions and deletions must be recorded and easily accessible.
Writing and introducing policy also entails ensuring that policy is not contradictory to any departmental or company guidelines or objectives. This includes ensuring that policy is both in line with the company mission and the laws of the community. Often, this work can entail legal research or consultation.
Salary of a Policy Writer
Depending on the department or work section to which they are assigned, policy writers' salaries can vary. Variations also occur depending on the type of company or corporation in which the policy writer works and the qualifications of the writer. Thus, policy writers with applicable graduate degrees often earn more than their counterparts with only an undergraduate degree.
Many policy writers are considered training and development specialists within human resources. According the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2019, the mean annual wage for such positions was $65,640 (www.bls.gov). The majority of these professionals earned between $32,680 and $104,200 per year.
A company's guidelines and procedures are logged and explained in plain language by a policy writer so that employees can understand them. Policy writers may also have to do legal research to ensure that their company's policies do not contradict the laws of the community. A bachelor's degree is the minimum education requirement for this position, but a master's degree can qualify one for higher wages.
