Entry Level Policy Analyst Jobs in Park Ridge, IL

Location: Chicago, IL (Hybrid) - Employment Type: Full-Time - Experience: Entry Level

GAINS is on a mission to make supply chains smarter, faster, and self-improving powered by AI. Our decision intelligence platform doesn't just support decisions, it drives them by aligning strategy, planning, and execution across every level of the supply chain. We work in inventory-intensive industries where the stakes are high and the complexity is real, helping customers move from reactive, spreadsheet-driven planning to continuously learning, AI-led operations that deliver measurable results fast. At GAINS, we call it Moving Forward Faster - and it's not a tagline, it's how we're redefining what's possible in driving supply chain decisions.

The Opportunity: This is an exceptional starting point for a recent graduate who wants to build a career at the intersection of data, AI, and real-world supply chain decision-making. As an Analyst on the Professional Services team, you will work alongside Senior Consultants on active client engagements—getting hands-on experience with complex operational data, cutting-edge planning software, and client-facing deliverables from day one. You won't be running coffee or working in a silo. You'll be doing meaningful analytical work that directly informs how our clients plan inventory, manage supply risk, and drive business outcomes. This role is designed to develop you quickly—giving you the foundations to grow into a Consultant and beyond within the GAINS Professional Services practice.

What You'll Do:

• Support Senior Consultants on client implementations and optimization engagements, contributing to data analysis, configuration work, and client-ready deliverables.
• Query and analyze large customer datasets using SQL to validate data quality, identify patterns, and surface actionable insights.
• Apply AI-powered tools and analytics—including large language models and automated diagnostics—to accelerate analysis and strengthen the quality of client recommendations.
• Build and maintain Excel-based models, dashboards, and reports that communicate findings clearly to both operational and executive audiences.
• Participate in client meetings and status calls, developing your ability to present data-driven findings with confidence and clarity.
• Contribute to the development of reusable analytical frameworks and internal tooling that improve how the Professional Services team operates.
• Learn the GAINS platform deeply—becoming a go-to resource for configuration, troubleshooting, and best-practice guidance across the team.

What We're Looking For Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Operations, Business Analytics, Information Systems, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Strong analytical mindset with a genuine curiosity for working through data problems—you enjoy finding the story in a dataset.
• Proficiency in Excel; comfort with structured data and logical problem decomposition.
• Clear, professional written and verbal communication skills; you can explain a complex finding simply.
• A collaborative, low-ego work style—you're as comfortable supporting others' work as leading your own.
• Eagerness to learn new tools and technologies quickly in a fast-paced consulting environment.

Preferred:

• Hands-on experience with SQL or Python—coursework, internships, or personal projects all count.
• Exposure to AI or LLM-based tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot, or similar) in an academic or professional context.
• Coursework or internship experience in supply chain planning, operations management, or data analytics.
• Familiarity with supply chain concepts such as demand forecasting, inventory management, or procurement.
• Prior internship experience in consulting, analytics, or enterprise software is a plus.

Why GAINS:

• Start your career working on real problems—not internal projects or back-office support—with direct client exposure from your first engagement.
• Develop expertise at the intersection of AI and supply chain, one of the most consequential technology shifts happening in business today.
• Grow alongside a team of experienced practitioners who are invested in your development and take mentorship seriously.
• A culture that rewards curiosity, initiative, and rigorous thinking—at a company that is genuinely moving forward faster.

The pay range for this position (Analyst or Senior Analyst) is $70,000 - $100,000; base pay offered may vary depending on a number of factors including but not limited to: the position offered, location, education, training, and/or experience. In addition to base pay, also offered is a comprehensive benefits package (medical, dental, vision), 401(k), holiday pay, flexible time off, and more. This position is eligible for participation in a short-term incentive plan subject to the terms of the applicable plans and policies. We are committed to equal employment opportunity and welcome everyone regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, domestic partner status, veteran status or medical condition. We encourage people from all backgrounds to apply.