Fiscal and Policy Analyst

Legislative Analyst's Office • Sacramento, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO) seeks intellectually curious individuals who have completed (or will soon complete) graduate study in public policy, public administration, economics, or a related field. This position provides the opportunity to develop expertise across California budget and policy issues while serving the Legislature in a nonpartisan environment. The LAO has provided nonpartisan fiscal and policy analysis to the California Legislature since 1941. The primary activities of the LAO are to: Assist the Legislature in all aspects of the budget process through its analytical and oversight activities. Respond to legislative requests for information about and analysis of the state’s budget and programs. Conduct independent studies and produce self-generated reports on topics of importance to the state. We deal with real-world problems that directly affect the public and assist the Legislature in setting budget priorities and state policy for one of the world’s largest economies. Working independently as well as in teams, we serve as the eyes and ears of the California Legislature to ensure that state-funded programs are operating in an efficient and effective manner. The LAO values excellence, expertise, teamwork, service, and diversity.

Requirements

• Master's degree in public policy, public or business administration, economics, or a related field that includes a curriculum of economics, statistics, public finance, and policy analysis.
• Strong quantitative and analytical skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively through clear and concise writing and oral presentations.
• Ability to work well with others in a fast-paced and production-oriented environment.
• Ability to learn, show initiative, and be willing to take on increasing levels of responsibility.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Word.
• Authorized to work for any employer in the U.S.

Nice To Haves

• Previous full-time policy experience is not required.
• We welcome applications from current graduate students and recent graduates who demonstrate strong analytical ability, excellent writing skills, intellectual curiosity, and a sincere interest in California budget and policy issues.

Responsibilities

• Spends considerable time in the field learning first-hand how programs work in practice.
• Keeps up on the laws and available literature in the program area.
• Knows and stays in contact with legislative, administrative, and intergovernmental staff, as well as industry groups and nonprofit organizations in the assigned policy area.
• Identify and analyze budget and policy issues and develop options and recommendations for the Legislature to address these issues.
• Testify before legislative committees on fiscal and policy issues.
• Serve as a fiscal and program resource to legislators whenever needed.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level