Policy Advisor; OPA

Policy Advisor (OPA2)

The Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer committed to workforce diversity. We welcome members of historically underrepresented racial/ethnic groups, women, individuals with disabilities, veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, and others to apply.

BOLI’s Prevailing Wage Rate (PWR) Unit is seeking a Policy Advisor to support and strengthen Oregon’s PWR enforcement program, which protects thousands of workers and employers across the state. This permanent hybrid position (with occasional onsite work required) is an essential contributor to BOLI’s mission to enforce labor laws, protect workers’ rights, prevent discrimination, and advance workforce development. The selected candidate may work from the Portland, Salem, or Eugene office.

Note:

Bilingual preferred, although not required; we encourage bilingual applicants to apply to better serve diverse communities.

• Evaluate and improve the effectiveness of the PWR Unit’s enforcement and compliance activities.
• Develop policy recommendations, long‑range plans, and operational strategies for leadership.
• Conduct research, audits, data analyses, and process evaluations to identify system needs.
• Lead the development of training, resources, program guidance, and internal tools for PWR staff.
• Participate in legislative analysis and concept development related to PWR enforcement.

A Bachelor’s Degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, Finance, Political Science, or a related field, plus two years of professional‑level evaluative, analytical, and planning work.

OR

Any combination of experience and education equivalent to five years of experience that supports the knowledge and skills required for the classification. (Specific requirements will be provided by the recruiting agency.)

• Advanced analytical abilities, including program evaluation, data analysis, and performance measurement techniques.
• Experience developing policies, procedures, workflows, and operational improvement plans within a regulatory or compliance environment.
• Strong technical communication skills, producing clear reports, policy guidance, training materials, and process documentation for varied audiences.
• Proven experience coordinating cross‑functional initiatives, leading work groups, facilitating meetings, and implementing program tools or systems.
• Working knowledge of labor laws, compliance program operations, administrative rule enforcement, or public sector regulatory frameworks.

• Permanent, full‑time employment with Union representation (SEIU).
• Work‑life balance and flexibility, including hybrid and onsite schedules.
• Vacation, sick leave, 11 paid holidays a year, and personal days off.
• Bilingual language skills, with a 5% bilingual differential pay upon passing the test.
• Competitive benefits package including medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• Pension and retirement programs.
• Employee resources and support for professional growth.
• Advancement opportunities within BOLI and other state agencies.
• Opportunity to expand technical and professional skills.
• Work with others passionate about public service and earn a sense of making a difference.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program.

This position operates under a flexible work schedule with daily contact via phone, e‑mail, mail, and/or in‑person with employees, employers, witnesses, and other stakeholders, including those who may be hostile, angry, or emotionally volatile. The employee must maintain objectivity, negotiate, and resolve disputes with tact and diplomacy. The role requires occasional evening, weekend work, and travel for field work that may involve overnight stays.

A valid Oregon driver’s license and an acceptable driving record are required for occasional work‑related travel.

Veterans’ preference:
Veterans'