Research Analyst – Policy Counsel

State of Washington

. Support Senate Democratic Caucus members in refining proposals to meet strategic, policy, and caucus goals .

Posted 10/17/2026full-timeOlympia • Washington • United StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $6,772 - $11,735 per monthWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates strong political judgment and strategic thinking, with the ability to analyze legislative proposals and conduct comprehensive research. Excels in communication, collaboration, and stakeholder engagement to support effective policy development and implementation.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Legislative Research and AnalysisPolicy DevelopmentStakeholder EngagementStrategic CommunicationPolitical Judgment

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Legislative Proposal DevelopmentLegal ResearchFiscal AnalysisProgrammatic ResearchBill DraftingPolicy AnalysisData EvaluationBudget NegotiationStatutory ImplementationRulemaking

Soft Skills

Excellent Written CommunicationExcellent Verbal CommunicationOrganizational SkillsCollaborationAdaptability

Industry Keywords

Washington State Legislative ProcessPublic PolicyCaucus StrategyCommunity OrganizingPublic Affairs

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Support Senate Democratic Caucus members in refining proposals to meet strategic, policy, and caucus goals
Develop and analyze legislative proposals
Conduct legal, fiscal, and programmatic research to develop recommendations
Draft memos, bill analyses, talking points, and policy summaries
Monitor committees, legislative progress, agency implementation, and emerging issues
Collaborate with nonpartisan staff on bill drafting
Collaborate with caucus communications staff on messaging
Provide concise briefings and supporting materials for decision-making
Cultivate relationships with stakeholders, agencies, impacted communities, and internal teams
Support caucus strategy with sound judgment and political awareness
Facilitate negotiations among stakeholders on complex and contentious policy topics
Coordinate committee activities and assist with planning, scheduling, and communication across chambers
Advise elected officials and staff on strategic, technical, policy, and political matters
Support budget negotiations
Track policy implementation and monitor community response and impact

Requirements

What you’ll need

Strong political judgment and strategic thinking
Understanding of how policy and politics intersect
Familiarity with the legislative process
Ability to support public officials in a dynamic political environment
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to distill and convey complex ideas, policies, and data with clarity, precision, and cultural awareness
Strong research, analytical, and synthesis skills
Ability to evaluate large volumes of information and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendations
Exceptional organizational skills
Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet tight deadlines under pressure
Ability to manage high workloads and stressful situations with professionalism, composure, and empathy
Professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling confidential or sensitive information
Initiative, resilience, and adaptability in fast-paced and high-stakes settings
Collaborative mindset and ability to build and maintain strong working relationships
Commitment to continuous learning, systems thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches to public policy
Strong commitment to equity, cultural humility, and inclusive policy development
Genuine interest in public service and improving outcomes for communities across Washington
Qualifying experience in legislative or policy research and analysis, government/nonprofit/professional research, statutory implementation, rulemaking, legislative relations, strategic communications, constituent services, stakeholder engagement, advocacy, community organizing, public affairs, or relevant lived experience
Familiarity with Washington State legislative processes preferred but not required
Ability to work extended and irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, during legislative sessions
Ability to work full-time in Olympia during legislative sessions and attend regular required in-person days in Olympia during the interim
Willingness to travel occasionally

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Long-term disability insurance
Vacation leave
Sick leave
Military leave
Bereavement leave
Civil leave
Twelve paid holidays per year
Retirement plan
Deferred compensation
Healthcare flexible spending account
Dependent care assistance
Infant at work policy
Optional credit unions
Paid subscription to DeleteMe
Tuition reimbursement
Hybrid/remote work flexibility during the interim