Local Government Analyst

• Great opportunity for recent graduates or newcomers to local government
• Ideal candidates are interested in public policy and regional planning
• Full-time employment with excellent benefits through County of San Diego
• Annual Salary Range: $58,593.60 to $92,102.40
• Anticipated Hiring Salary: $60,000
• Application materials (resume and cover letter) must be submitted no later than 5:00 PM on Friday, October 23, 2026

The Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO) is a subdivision of the State of California with broad regulatory and planning powers to oversee the establishment and development of cities and special districts. LAFCO is governed by a Commission tasked with facilitating orderly growth and development by aligning municipal services with current and future community needs. San Diego LAFCO is tasked with overseeing cities and special districts within San Diego County.

At San Diego LAFCO, we thrive together in a work environment that revolves around five shared values: respect, teamwork, duty, innovation, and integrity. All staff contribute to our mission of making government boundaries matter in San Diego County. We believe good information leads to good decisions. Our work is serious, but we don’t take ourselves too seriously. So if you bring a sense of humor, we appreciate that, too.

San Diego LAFCO is recruiting for one full-time Local Governmental Analyst to support the agency in fulfilling its prescribed regulatory and planning responsibilities under state law. Under the direct supervision of the Executive Officer or designee, the incumbent will primarily serve as project manager for assigned studies evaluating the availability, adequacy, and performance of local governmental services relative to current and future community needs.

This work includes performing entry- to intermediate-level analysis of demographic, service, and financial trends and projections. The incumbent will also provide general staff support, including processing boundary-change proposals and representing the agency before public boards and other organizations. Training and professional development will be provided, with responsibilities expanding commensurate with demonstrated skills and experience.

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor's degree in public administration, political science, economics, urban studies, or a related field. At least one-year responsible experience performing research and analytical work, personnel, budget, finance, or customer service. Education beyond the bachelor's degree may substitute for experience.

The ideal candidates for the position will have a strong interest in public policy and regional planning; effective analytical and problem-solving skills; and – most importantly – curiosity with respect to understanding how local government works and how to make it better. Ideal candidates will also have strong written and verbal communication skills, excellent organizational skills, and a self-starter who is process-oriented while keeping track of desired outcomes.

• Ability to perform entry-level qualitative and quantitative analysis.
• Provide critical thinking and objective reporting.
• Direct and conduct special studies, projects, and public meetings.
• Prepare clear, concise reports and other written materials.
• Organize and manage projects and programs efficiently.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Ability to exercise sound independent judgment in performing assignments.

The Local Governmental Analyst I position is at-will and assigned broad salary ranges of $58,593.60 to $92,102.40 based on 40-hour workweeks. The position offers a hybrid work schedule (3 days on-site and 2 days remote work). Incumbents also receive generous benefit packages that include health, dental, and vision insurance coverage through the County of San Diego, as well as pension participation with the San Diego County Employees Retirement Association.

Any offer of employment will be subject to the successful completion of a background check.