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Policy Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

The Kennedy Commission

Policy Analyst

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30K/yr

The Commission is seeking a Policy Analyst to assist with tracking and analysis of housing programs, policy and data. Our works aims to increase affordable housing options and improve equity and ...

The Kennedy Commission

Policy Analyst

Irvine, CA · On-site

$30K/yr

The Commission is seeking a Policy Analyst to assist with tracking and analysis of housing programs, policy and data. Our works aims to increase affordable housing options and improve equity and ...

Farm Credit Administration

Policy Analyst

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$78K - $148K/yr

As a Senior Policy Analyst, you will be responsible for providing technical expertise and policy solutions for complex credit and mission related issues facing the Farm Credit System (System or FCS)

New

Farm Credit Administration

Policy Analyst

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$78K - $148K/yr

As a Senior Policy Analyst, you will be responsible for providing technical expertise and policy solutions for complex credit and mission related issues facing the Farm Credit System (System or FCS)

New

Internal Revenue Service

Policy Analyst

Fresno, CA · On-site +1

$125K - $197K/yr

The incumbent must be knowledgeable of the Division Commissioner's policies and ensure that views are well represented. The incumbent may also represent the Division Commissioner on local Federal ...

OpenAI

Model Policy

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$207K - $295K/yr

We co-design policy with models and for models by driving rapid policy taxonomy iteration based on data and defining evaluation criteria for foundational models' ability to reason about safety. About ...

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Policy Assistant information

What does a Policy Assistant do?

A Policy Assistant supports policy analysts, advisors, and managers in researching, developing, and implementing policy initiatives. Their tasks often include conducting background research, preparing reports and briefing notes, tracking legislative developments, and coordinating meetings or consultations with stakeholders. Policy Assistants play a key role in ensuring that policymakers have the information they need to make informed decisions. They may work in government, think tanks, non-profits, or advocacy organizations.

What is the difference between Policy Assistant vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy AssistantPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related fieldBachelor's or master's degree in public policy, political science, economics, or related field
Work EnvironmentSupportive office settings, government agencies, NGOsResearch-focused roles, government departments, think tanks
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment, non-profits, advocacy groupsGovernment agencies, research organizations, consulting firms
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level policy support rolesAnalyzing policy impacts and recommendations

Policy Assistants typically support policy development through administrative tasks and research, often requiring a bachelor's degree. Policy Analysts conduct in-depth research and analysis to develop policy recommendations, often needing advanced degrees. Both roles are common in government and non-profit sectors, but Policy Analysts usually have more responsibility for strategic decision-making.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Policy Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Policy Assistant, you need strong research and analytical skills, proficiency in written and verbal communication, and typically a relevant degree in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with legislative tracking systems, policy analysis tools, and Microsoft Office Suite is often required. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work collaboratively make candidates stand out. These competencies ensure effective policy development, clear communication of recommendations, and smooth support of legislative or advocacy efforts.

What are some typical challenges Policy Assistants face when supporting multiple projects or stakeholders?

Policy Assistants often juggle several projects simultaneously, each with its own deadlines and stakeholder expectations. A common challenge is managing competing priorities while maintaining attention to detail in research, drafting documents, and coordinating meetings. Successful Policy Assistants develop strong organizational skills, adapt quickly to shifting priorities, and communicate proactively with their teams to ensure tasks are completed efficiently. Collaboration with senior policy staff and external partners is frequent, requiring flexibility and a collaborative attitude.
What are the most commonly searched types of Policy jobs in California? The most popular types of Policy jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Policy Assistant jobs in California? For Policy Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Policy Assistant jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Policy Assistant jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Policy Assistant jobs? Cities in California with the most Policy Assistant job openings:
Policy Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Assistant job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Policy Analyst

The Kennedy Commission

Irvine, CA • On-site

$30K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

Position Summary: The Kennedy Commission is seeking a full-time Policy Analyst. A qualified candidate will be an individual who has an understanding of Orange County community housing needs and how policy solutions can create opportunities and equity.

The Kennedy Commission advocates for systemic change, which will result in the increase of safe and affordable housing opportunities for families earning less than $30,000 annually in Orange County. The Kennedy Commission began in 2001 to address issues of inequity in housing costs in Orange County. The Commission collaborates with representatives from community development-related entities, public entities, health care, interested individuals, government, private and not-for-profit community organizations. Together, we have recognized the urgency and importance to the County of changing public policy to enhance the quality of life in neighborhoods and increase new affordable housing opportunities for low-income families.

The Kennedy Commission develops, promotes, and implements innovative housing and community development policies, practices, and partnerships to create new affordable and healthy housing opportunities lower income families in Orange County. The Commission is seeking a Policy Analyst to assist with tracking and analysis of housing programs, policy and data. Our works aims to increase affordable housing options and improve equity and quality of life in low-income neighborhoods. Issues range from affordable housing, community development, equity in public investment, and community participation in land use and planning, among others. Our work will help mitigate community inequities and disparate impacts and work to encourage systemic change in policies and programs to improve the lives of low-income families.

Position Description:

Under supervision of the Executive Director, the Policy Analyst works in a team environment to provide technical assistance, policy analysis, and research on housing policy as it relates to affordable housing, equitable planning, and land use. This may include:

· Analyze, develop, and evaluate housing, community development policies, programs and issues.

· Independently compile, analyze, and organize data and other information on policies, programs, and other related topics.

· Provide technical assistance, talking points, presentations, and guidance to governmental partners and the public.

· Identify and recommend organizational improvements.

· Conduct public outreach and stakeholder engagement to a variety of audiences.

· Interaction with other policy knowledge areas, including, but not limited to land-use related issues, homelessness, and state and local housing planning and land use.

· Develop effective partnerships with community residents, leaders, housing providers, local government officials and others.

· Organize community forums, focus groups and surveys that identify potential housing and community equity issues and solutions.

· Recruit and develop the skills of community leaders; identifying as leaders, those residents who motivate and involve other members of the community.

· Assist community leaders in developing relationships with community agencies and institutions, which can help them, meet the community needs.

· Assist community leaders in developing events, which bring the community together and develop relationships among residents.

· Encourage public support for land use policy reform that addressing community planning inequities.

· Perform grant reporting requirements.

· Participate in the Commission’s organizational development and other project work as appropriate. Other duties may be required.

Company Description

The Kennedy Commission is a community-based non-profit that works with residents and community organizations to increase the production of homes affordable to lower income households in Orange County. Originally convened as an all-volunteer organization, the Kennedy Commission was formed in 2001 and named in honor of Ralph Kennedy, a pioneer for the homeless, affordable homes and human rights advocacy in Orange County.
The Kennedy Commission develops housing solutions that affirm the dignity of families with very low- and extremely low-incomes and unites communities across Orange County to development homes affordable to all.