Policy Researcher​/Senior Policy Researcher, Green Economy Program; Associate​/Specialist

Policy Researcher/Senior Policy Researcher, Green Economy Program (Associate/Full Specialist)

Position Overview:

The UC Berkeley Labor Center is seeking a Policy Researcher or Senior Policy Researcher for its Green Economy Program. The role may be filled at the Associate or Full Specialist rank, based on experience and education.

Salary Range: $75,600–$128,400 per annum, based on the UC academic salary scales for the Representative Specialist Series.

Percent Time: 100%

Anticipated Start:
Spring 2026

Position Duration: 1 year, with possible extension based on funding and performance.

Job Location:

Berkeley, CA (eligible for up to 3 days remote work).

• Conduct policy research and analysis on workforce standards, economic development, and industrial policy related to the energy transition.
• Co-author or lead author policy research reports, briefing memos, op-eds, and public testimony.
• Provide technical assistance to stakeholders, policymakers, and media on labor and energy transition debates.
• Support Program Leads with outreach to partner organizations, building and strengthening relationships, and facilitating collaboration.
• Identify new research projects and collaboration opportunities with field partners.
• Assist Program Leads with developing curriculum and delivering trainings for unions, worker advocates, and other stakeholders.
• Supervise and mentor student workers.

Basic qualifications (required at time of application):

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent international degree.

Associate Specialist:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent international degree and at least five years of professional experience; OR Master’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least three years of professional experience.

Full Specialist:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent international degree and at least ten years of professional experience; OR Master’s degree or equivalent international degree and at least eight years of professional experience; OR PhD or equivalent international degree and at least two years of professional experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s or equivalent international degree with at least three years of experience analyzing public policies.
• Experience in research on public policy, including tracking legislation, analyzing key concepts, and assessing policy models.
• Familiarity with labor standards, climate and energy policies, industrial policy, or economic development, with an understanding of core issues for workers and unions.
• Ability to work collaboratively with unions and other stakeholders (environmental organizations, industry/employer associations).
• Strong facilitation, collaboration, and policy writing skills.
• Independent project management, meeting timelines, managing stakeholder relationships, and maintaining confidentiality.

• Curriculum Vitae (most recently updated).
• Cover Letter.
• Writing Sample #1 – Applied research or policy writing.
• Writing Sample #2 – Applied research or policy writing focused on climate/energy policies or labor standards (optional).
• 3–5 letters of reference (contact information only).

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States at the time of hire. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

The University of California, Berkeley is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. For more information, please refer to the University of California's affirmative action and nondiscrimination policies.