Research Analyst/Policy Counsel - Senate Democratic Caucus

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.

The most successful candidates will demonstrate:

·       Strong political judgment and strategic thinking, with a clear understanding of how policy and politics intersect

·       Familiarity with the legislative process and the ability to support public officials in a dynamic political environment

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to distill and convey complex ideas, policies, and data with clarity, precision, and cultural awareness

·       Strong research, analytical, and synthesis skills, including the ability to evaluate large volumes of information and translate findings into clear, actionable recommendations

·       Exceptional organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects, and meet tight deadlines under pressure

·       Ability to manage high workloads and stressful situations with professionalism, composure, and empathy

·       Professionalism, discretion, and sound judgment when handling confidential or sensitive information

·       Initiative, resilience, and adaptability in fast-paced and high-stakes settings

·       A collaborative mindset and the ability to build and maintain strong working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders, and policymakers

·       Commitment to continuous learning, systems thinking, and interdisciplinary approaches to public policy

·       A strong commitment to equity, cultural humility, and inclusive policy development

·       Genuine interest in public service and in improving outcomes for communities across Washington

We welcome applicants with a range of educational, professional, and lived experiences. Candidates with any combination of experience that demonstrates the ability to succeed in this role are encouraged to apply. Diverse backgrounds in education and experience can be successful in this role and will be considered.  

Examples of qualifying experience may include but are not limited to:

·       Legislative or policy research and analysis

·       Government, nonprofit, or professional research experience involving statutory implementation, rulemaking, or legislative relations

·       Strategic communications, constituent services, or stakeholder engagement

·       Advocacy, community organizing, or public affairs

·       Lived experience navigating or responding to the impacts of public systems or policy decisions

Preferred (but not required):

·       Familiarity with Washington State legislative processes

·       Extended and irregular hours (evenings/weekends) required during legislative sessions.

·       Hybrid/remote flexibility during interim with regular required days in person in Olympia; Olympia-based full-time during session

·       Occasional travel required

·       This position is full-time and exempt from civil service

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 nonpartisan 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

·       Supporting caucus strategy with sound judgment, political awareness, and a team-oriented mindset

·       Facilitating negotiations between stakeholders on complex and potentially contentious policy topics

·       Coordinating committee activities and assisting with planning, scheduling and communication across chambers

RCW 49.58.110 requires employers to provide a full salary range in job postings. The salary for this position is based on relevant experience and qualifications.  The salary for this position is $6,772 - $11,735 monthly.  The hiring salary offered will consider internal equity and will be based on relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. 

Complete the application form accessed by clicking this link: Careers at Washington State Senate or typing this URL: https://apply.workable.com/washington-state-senate/.   This position is opened until filled.  Monday, October 26, 2026 is the priority deadline for applications.  Applicants are encouraged to submit materials as soon as possible as screening, interviewing, and selection will begin immediately.  E-mail contact Senate.HRO@leg.wa.gov.

Persons requiring reasonable accommodation in the application process or requiring information in an alternative format may contact the Senate Human Resource Office at Senate.HRO@leg.wa.gov.

The Washington State Senate is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, creed, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, age, physical, sensory, or mental disability, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or the use of a service animal by a person with a disability.