Chief Policy Analyst to the Mayor

City of Tacoma•Tacoma, WA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The City of Tacoma's City Manager's Office is recruiting for a full-time Chief Policy Analyst to the Mayor. This position serves in the Policy Analyst, Senior classification. The ideal candidate must have the ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines, work with confidential information and have strong communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively build/maintain professional working relationships with internal and external stakeholders and residents. The Chief Policy Analyst position requires the ability to be politically astute and sensitive to issues or requests that have the potential for controversy. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a dedicated team passionate about and committed to having an immediate and lasting impact on our community.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in public administration, public policy or directly related field
4 years of policy analysis or municipal government experience
1 year prior at senior, lead and/or supervisory level
Washington State Driver's License (as needed)
Ability to work efficiently under tight deadlines
Ability to work with confidential information
Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
Ability to be politically astute and sensitive to issues or requests that have the potential for controversy
Resume and cover letter that includes major responsibilities and accomplishments related to the position
Passing a background check

Nice To Haves

Relevant education and experience may substitute for one another on a year-for-year basis

Responsibilities

Conduct responsive, data-driven research and analysis to support the Mayor’s executive-level decision-making, including preparing clear recommendations on emerging issues.
Draft high-quality policy briefs, memos, reports, talking points, speeches, presentations, and other communications requiring discretion, judgment, and political awareness.
Serve as a liaison to the City Council, internal departments, external agencies, community stakeholders, Sister City partners, and youth participants engaged through the Mayor’s Youth Council.
Manage and respond to constituent inquiries, complaints, and sensitive communications on behalf of the Mayor, ensuring tactful resolution and timely follow-up across departments.
Lead and assist with cross-departmental projects and initiatives, tracking progress, performance metrics, and outcomes while preparing detailed summaries for executive leadership.
Coordinate and support the Mayor’s public-facing activities, including meeting preparation, event logistics, media request facilitation, itineraries for policy or diplomacy travel, and collaboration with Council support staff.
Represent the Mayor’s Office at meetings, committees, task forces, community events, Council sessions, and Sister City or Youth Council engagements, ensuring alignment with the City’s mission and priorities.
Coordinate routine requests and guidance of the Mayor’s Office such as Ceremonials, appointments, street and place renaming requests, and the Mayor/Council Budget Guidance for travel, development, and outreach.