Strategic Planning & AI Readiness Analyst

Specialized Recruiting Group is seeking a Strategic Planning & AI Readiness Analyst for a contract opportunity with a local government body in Durham, NC.

This role will help develop, prioritize, and monitor key departmental metrics; lead organizational readiness for AI adoption (including facilitating committee meetings and developing implementation recommendations); and drive process improvement initiatives.

This is a full-time W-2 contract position, with a 37.5 hours/week schedule. The length of contract employment is initially anticipated through 6-12 months, but is open to extension. Our target compensation for the role is $45.00-$50.00/hour. This is also a Hybrid position, requiring in-office attendance in Durham 3 business days per week.

Even though this is a contract position, you are welcome and encouraged to apply for relevant permanent opportunities within the local government while on contract.

• Collaborate with departmental leadership to review, refine, and monitor the strategic plan.
• Develop meaningful, measurable departmental metrics aligned with strategic goals.
• Establish processes and templates for tracking and reporting progress on key metrics.
• Organizing and facilitating AI readiness committee meetings.
• Drafting recommendations for policy, training, governance, and organizational change.
• Coordinating with internal and external stakeholders to identify use cases.
• Assist in prioritizing departmental projects and initiatives to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement, conduct analyses, and support implementation of solutions.
• Produce clear documentation, dashboards, and reports for department leadership.
• Advise on best practices for organizational change management related to AI adoption and strategic planning.

• Proven experience in strategic planning, performance measurement, or organizational development.
• Experience leading or advising on AI readiness, digital transformation, or technology adoption initiatives.
• Strong skills in data analysis, KPI development, and performance reporting.
• Demonstrated ability to facilitate meetings and build consensus among stakeholders.
• Knowledge of process improvement methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.) is a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a public‑sector or complex organizational environment.

If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, we want to hear from you! Apply online today for immediate consideration.