Research Analyst​/Policy Counsel - Senate Democratic Caucus

Research Analyst/Policy Counsel

Policy Director

$6,772 - $11,735 monthly depending on qualifications

Olympia, WA (Hybrid/remote flexibility during interim)

This position is opened until filled. Monday, October 26, 2026 is the priority Final date to receive applications. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We strongly recommend applying as soon as possible.

The 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.

Research 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.

As 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 goals
• Developing and analyzing legislative proposals
• Conducting research using legal, fiscal, and programmatic sources to develop recommendations
• Drafting written materials including memos, bill analyses, talking points, and policy summaries
• Monitoring committees, legislative progress, agency implementation, and emerging issues
• Collaborating with nonpartian staff on bill drafting and with caucus communications staff on messaging
• Providing concise briefings and supporting materials to inform decision-making
• Cultivating relationships with stakeholders, agencies, impacted communities, and internal teams to support inclusive, informed policy development
• Supportin…