Freelance Public Policy Analyst Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Salary: Depends on Qualifications
Location : San Jose Metropolitan Area, CA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 26-EB1-B
Department: Supervisorial District 3
Opening Date: 08/14/2026
Closing Date: 9/4/2026 11:59 PM Pacific
Bargaining Unit: 95
Description
The Policy Analyst is a full-time extra help position in the Office of County Supervisor Otto Lee, responsible for budget and policy analysis in the area public safety and justice. This position also involves providing constituent services, casework, and community outreach. The position of Policy Analyst is an at-will position reporting to the Deputy Chief of Staff. Candidates who are bilingual in Spanish are strongly encouraged to apply.
The County of Santa Clara government serves approximately 1.9 million residents. The Board of Supervisors consists of five members who are elected to four-year terms. Each supervisor represents a geographic district. Elected in November 2020, Supervisor Lee represents the Third District, which includes Alviso, Sunnyvale, Milpitas, and neighborhoods in North San Jose.
Employees in this classification are not members of the classified civil service and appointment would be on a contract "at-will" basis and is for a specified period of time to be determined by the appointing Supervisor and/or Chief of Staff and does not extend past the end of the Supervisor's or appointing authority's term. Candidates must be willing to work evenings and weekends on occasion, and as salaried employees, are not eligible for overtime compensation.
Salary Information
The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $70,000 to $90,000, depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. This is an Extra-Help position without benefits, with the potential for conversion to a full-time, benefited position. The County offers a generous medical, dental, and vision benefits package. Retirement benefits are provided through CalPERS (the California Public Employees' Retirement System). Paid holidays, as well as vacation and sick leave, are part of the compensation package.
Application Process
To apply, please submit a letter of interest, a brief writing sample (no more than 5 pages), and a resume to Elica Rahdar, Chief of Staff, at , using the subject line "Policy Analyst - Public Safety, Justice and Immigration." Applications are due Friday, September 4, 2026.
This position will remain open until filled, and applications will be reviewed continuously; therefore, we encourage applicants to apply as soon as possible. Please allow adequate time to complete the application and submit it before the deadline
Typical Tasks
Responsibilities for the position may include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Policy Analysis - provide the Supervisor with strong policy analysis within the issue areas of responsibility, including evaluating budgetary, legislative and community impacts of criminal justice reform efforts, diversionary programs for criminal justice-involved individuals, and juvenile justice systems. Prepare the Supervisor for Board of Supervisors meetings and other bodies on which the Supervisor serves. Draft background memos, talking points, and provide staffing as needed.
• Community Outreach - provide staff support to the Supervisor at meetings and events, will coordinate and attend stakeholder meetings on behalf of the Supervisor, and develop positive working relationships with community members and department leaders. The Policy Analyst will also provide issue-area specific content for the Supervisor's newsletter, social media, and website.
• Constituent Services and Casework Management - respond to constituents seeking help, including providing information and facilitating communication with County departments and agencies.
Employment Standards
Any combination of training and experience that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to advise the Supervisor on matters of public policy, democratic processes, constituent service, or citizen involvement.
Required Licensing: Possession of a valid California Driver's license is required.
Employment Eligibility: Federal law requires all employees to provide verification of their eligibility to work in this country.
Required experience, knowledge, and skills for this position include:
• Excellent oral, written, and interpersonal skills.
• Organizational proficiency, including the abilities to prioritize, handle multiple tasks simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a diverse team.
• Read and summarize a significant volume of complex information.
• Think creatively and articulate thoughts clearly, including in public settings.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal criminal justice systems and reform efforts.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, Google Docs, and social media platforms.
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