Research Analyst/Policy Counsel - Senate Democratic CaucusEXEMPT RECRUITMENT ANNOUNCEMENTJOB TITLE: Research Analyst/Policy CounselREPORTS TO: Policy DirectorSALARY: $6,772 - $11,735 monthly depending on qualificationsLOCATION: Olympia, WA (Hybrid/remote flexibility during interim)CLOSES: This position is opened until filled. Monday, October 26th is the priority deadline for applications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We strongly recommend applying as soon as possible. About the Senate Democratic CaucusThe Washington State Legislature is a bicameral body composed of the Senate and the House of Representatives. The Legislature convenes annually in Olympia, with regular sessions beginning each January and special sessions as needed. Permanent Senate staff work year-round to support Senators in carrying out their legislative responsibilities.The Washington State Senate Democratic Caucus (SDC) consists exclusively of Democratic members of the Washington State Senate. Our caucus staff is a collaborative team of forward-thinking administrative, policy, and communications professionals dedicated to putting people first. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can belong and thrive. That means fostering a respectful, safe, and supportive environment for all employees. We believe our work is strongest when informed by people of all backgrounds, cultures, and lived experiences.We’re seeking policy professionals who are committed to equity, collaboration, and improving lives across Washington. As part of the SDC, you’ll support Democratic Senators in developing policy ideas, advancing priorities, and evaluating legislation while engaging with communities impacted by it.  Position SummaryResearch Analysts/Policy Counsel are public policy professionals who support Senate Democrats by evaluating legislation, developing policy proposals, and advising on strategic and technical matters. Working closely with Senators, legislative staff, state agencies, and stakeholders, analysts/counsel conduct research, clarify complex issues, and help translate ideas into actionable legislation. Analysts/counsel also support committee coordination, track policy implementation, and monitor community response and impact. This position may staff a policy and/or fiscal committee. This is a full-time year-round position that is exempt from civil service laws. This position is based full-time in Olympia during the legislative session, with hybrid/remote work flexibility during the interim, with regular required days in person in Olympia. This position is represented by a union. How You’ll ContributeAs a Research Analyst/Policy Counsel, you will play a key role in helping Senate Democrats shape, advance, and communicate public policy. You’ll work directly with elected officials and staff to provide strategic guidance, develop legislation, support budget negotiations, and analyze complex issues with political and policy awareness. Key responsibilities include:Supporting members in refining proposals to meet strategic, policy, and caucus goalsDeveloping and analyzing legislative proposals Conducting research using legal, fiscal, and programmatic sources to develop recommendationsDrafting written materials including memos, bill analyses, talking points, and policy summariesMonitoring committees, legislative progress, agency implementation, and emerging issuesCollaborating with nonpartisan staff on bill drafting and with caucus communications staff on messagingProviding concise briefings and supporting materials to inform decision-makingCultivating relationships with stakeholders, agencies, impacted communities, and internal teams to support inclusive, informed policy developmentSupporting caucus strategy with sound judgment, political awareness, and a team-oriented mindsetFacilitating negotiations between stakeholders on complex and potentially contentious policy topicsCoordinating committee activities and assisting with planning, scheduling and communication across chambersPosition QualificationsThe most successful candidates will demonstrate:Strong political judgment and strategic thinking, with a clear understanding of how policy and politics intersectFamiliarity with the legislative process and the ability to support public officials in a dynamic political environmentExcellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill and convey complex ideas, policies, and data with clarity, precision, and cultural awarenessStrong research, analytical, and synthesis skills, including the ability to evaluate large volumes of information and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendationsExceptional organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet tight deadlines under pressureAbility to manage high workloads and stressful situations with professionalism, composure, and empathyProfessionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling confidential or sensitive informationInitiative, resilience, and adaptability in fast-paced and high-stakes settingsA collaborative mindset and the ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and policymakersCommitment to continuous learning, systems thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches to public policyA strong commitment to equity, cultural humility, and inclusive policy developmentGenuine interest in public service and in improving outcomes for communities across WashingtonMinimum Requirements:We welcome applicants with a range of educational, professional, and lived experiences. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to succeed in this role are encouraged to apply. Diverse backgrounds in education and experience can be successful in this role and will be considered. Examples of qualifying experience may include but are not limited to:Legislative or policy research and analysisGovernment, nonprofit, or professional research experience involving statutory implementation, rulemaking, or legislative relationsStrategic communications, constituent services, or stakeholder engagementAdvocacy, community organizing, or public affairsLived experience navigating or responding to the impacts of public systems or policy decisionsPreferred (but not required):Familiarity with Washington State legislative processesWorking Conditions & RequirementsExtended and irregular hours (evenings/weekends) required during legislative sessions.Hybrid/remote flexibility during interim with regular required days in person in Olympia; Olympia-based full-time during sessionOccasional travel requiredThis position is full-time and exempt from civil serviceSALARY RANGERCW 49.58.110 requires employers to provide a full salary range in job postings. The salary for this position is based on relevant experience and qualifications. The salary for this position is $6,772 - $11,735 monthly. The hiring salary offered will consider internal equity and will be based on relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. EMPLOYEE BENEFITSThe Senate offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance; vacation, sick, military, bereavement, and civil leave twelve paid holidays per year; a retirement plan; deferred compensation; healthcare flexible spending account; dependent care assistance; infant at work policy; optional credit unions; paid subscription to DeleteMe; and tuition reimbursement. HOW TO APPLYComplete the application form accessed by clicking this link: Careers at Washington State Senate or typing this URL: https://apply.workable.com/washington-state-senate/. This position is opened until filled. Monday, October 26th, 2026 is the priority deadline for applications. Applicants are encouraged to submit materials as soon as possible as screening, interviewing, and selection will begin immediately. E-mail contact [email protected] requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the Senate Human Resource Office at [email protected].  The Washington State Senate is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, physical, sensory, or mental disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the use of a service animal by a person with a disability.