Principal Policy Analyst - Human Services

This work is in office primarily with some remote work.

This recruitment may be used to fill other policy positions with the Council.

We are looking for an accomplished Principal Policy Analyst who brings a strong background in public policy and research. As a member of a team supporting the work of the Pierce County Council, you will be responsible for analyzing, developing, and monitoring policy in the areas of behavioral health, health and human services, and youth and aging services. Experience in other policy areas such as homelessness, affordable housing, and public safety is helpful.

As a non‑partisan Principal Policy Analyst you will develop, mentor, and supervise other Policy Analysts. You will work with and support a variety of complex and challenging topics in assigned policy areas developing and presenting policy options for Council consideration. You will frequently interact with County departments, outside agencies, and stakeholders to inform policy options and to communicate Council and Council member priorities.

You will also manage the operations and work program of one or more Council Committees.

The Pierce County Council is the legislative and policy‑making body of Pierce County government. As a Home‑Rule Charter County, Pierce County operates with a clear separation between the elected County Executive and the seven‑member, district‑based County Council.

Serving a population of more than 925,000 residents, the Council reviews and acts on hundreds of ordinances and resolutions each year, providing oversight and direction on a wide range of issues affecting the County. The Council also reviews and adopts the County’s budget, a critical process that allocates resources and sets priorities for County services.

Working in a fast‑paced, highly visible environment, the Council regularly engages with the public and receives briefings from executive departments and other elected officials to ensure transparency, accountability, and informed decision‑making. Through close collaboration with County leadership, partner jurisdictions, and the community, the Council plays a central role in shaping the future of Pierce County.

Learn more about the Pierce County Council here.

We are looking for a leader who will support, develop, and lead a strong team of analysts and who understands, synthesizes, and summarizes complex information in a manner that can be easily conveyed to others. Someone with strong listening and speaking skills, and be able to effectively work with elected officials, County departments, other public agencies and units of government, stakeholders and the public on a variety of policy and fiscal issues.

Strong analytical and communication skills are essential. You should be familiar with the role of county government, the legislative process, and legislative bodies; and will be public service focused, and solutions oriented.

A career with Pierce County means joining an organization committed to your growth and success. Through our robust online learning and variety of training opportunities, Pierce County ensures continuous professional development throughout your journey. This dedication extends beyond individual advancement, it reflects a broader mission to foster welcoming communities, maintain safe infrastructure, and promote equitable access to opportunities.

• With limited supervision and a large degree of discretion, provides advanced professional expertise on highly complex, sensitive, and confidential policy and fiscal issues that impact Pierce County.
• Assists the Council and Council members to develop, evaluate, and respond to legislation to achieve their policy objectives. Understands policy intent and expected outcomes, analyzes issues, develops options and proposals.
• Analyzes, interprets, and synthesizes large amounts of complex or controversial information into objective, accurate and useful information for Council members, stakeholders, and the public.
• Communicates information in an objective and nonpartisan manner that makes…