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Policy Strategist Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Waymo

Policy Advisor

Mountain View, CA

Lead regional public policy strategy, legislative advocacy, and regulatory engagement across the San Francisco Bay Area (San Francisco, North Bay, East Bay, and Silicon Valley/San Jose). * Serve as ...

Waymo

Policy Advisor

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$144K - $177K/yr

Lead regional public policy strategy, legislative advocacy, and regulatory engagement across the San Francisco Bay Area (San Francisco, North Bay, East Bay, and Silicon Valley/San Jose). * Serve as ...

Jobtailor

Policy Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$150 - $200/hr

Develop and lead a robust policy strategy and legislative agenda aligned with ALC's strategic priorities * Produce policy memos, legislative analyses, factsheets, FAQs, explainers, testimony, and ...

Asian Law Caucus

Policy Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$143K - $170K/yr

ALC is looking for a strategic movement leader who produces rigorous policy analysis, writes compellingly for multiple audiences, leads coalitions effectively, and builds the policy capacity of ...

Asian Law Caucus

Policy Director

San Francisco, CA · On-site +1

$143K - $170K/yr

ALC is looking for a strategic movement leader who produces rigorous policy analysis, writes compellingly for multiple audiences, leads coalitions effectively, and builds the policy capacity of ...

Adobe

Mgr, Fraud Policy and Strategy

San Jose, CA

Lead fraud policy, strategy, and prevention initiatives as a member of Adobe's Global Consumer Trust organization. * Serve as the strategic lead for fraud policy and governance, developing scalable ...

Adobe

Mgr, Fraud Policy and Strategy

San Francisco, CA · On-site

Lead fraud policy, strategy, and prevention initiatives as a member of Adobe's Global Consumer Trust organization. * Serve as the strategic lead for fraud policy and governance, developing scalable ...

Meta

Monetization Policy Manager

San Francisco, CA · Remote

$122K/yr

Meta is hiring a Monetization Policy Manager with expertise in privacy, AI, and technology policy ... The team's mission is to create a strategic advantage and favorable political conditions for our ...

Meta

Monetization Policy Manager

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$122K - $180K/yr

Meta is hiring a Monetization Policy Manager with expertise in privacy, AI, and technology policy ... The team's mission is to create a strategic advantage and favorable political conditions for our ...

Adobe, Inc.

Mgr, Fraud Policy and Strategy

San Jose, CA · On-site

Lead fraud policy, strategy, and prevention initiatives as a member of Adobe's Global Consumer Trust organization. * Serve as the strategic lead for fraud policy and governance, developing scalable ...

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Policy Strategist information

What is a policy strategist?

Policy Strategists are professionals who analyze, develop, and recommend policies for organizations, governments, or advocacy groups. They research current issues, evaluate potential impacts, and design strategies to influence public policy or organizational direction. Policy Strategists often work closely with stakeholders, lawmakers, and subject matter experts to craft effective policy solutions and advocate for their implementation. Their work aims to address complex societal challenges by shaping laws, regulations, or organizational practices.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a policy strategist?

To thrive as a Policy Strategist, you need strong analytical skills, expertise in policy analysis, and a solid educational background in political science, public policy, or a related field. Familiarity with data analysis tools, policy modeling software, and legislative tracking systems is typically required. Excellent communication, critical thinking, and stakeholder engagement abilities help distinguish top performers in this role. These skills are vital for developing effective policies, influencing decision-makers, and achieving organizational goals in complex environments.

What are some common challenges policy strategists face when working across multiple stakeholders?

Policy Strategists often collaborate with diverse groups such as government agencies, advocacy organizations, and private sector partners. A common challenge is balancing differing priorities and perspectives while building consensus and maintaining momentum on projects. Effective communication, strong negotiation skills, and adaptability are essential to navigate these complexities and ensure policies are both practical and impactful. Being proactive in stakeholder engagement and having a clear understanding of the political and organizational landscape can help mitigate these challenges.

What is the difference between Policy Strategist vs Policy Analyst?

AspectPolicy StrategistPolicy Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; often advanced degrees preferredBachelor's degree in public policy, political science, or related field; some roles may require a master's
Work EnvironmentStrategic planning, high-level policy development, collaboration with stakeholdersResearch, data analysis, report writing, policy evaluation
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, think tanks, advocacy groupsGovernment agencies, research organizations, NGOs

Policy Strategists focus on developing overarching policy strategies and long-term plans, while Policy Analysts primarily conduct research and analyze data to inform policy decisions. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How do you become a policy strategist?

To become a policy strategist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in political science, public policy, or a related field, along with experience in policy analysis, government, or advocacy. Developing strong research, communication, and analytical skills is essential, and some roles may require a master's degree or specialized certifications. Gaining experience through internships or entry-level positions helps build expertise in policy development and strategic planning.

Is policy a high paying job?

Policy strategist roles can offer competitive salaries, especially with experience, advanced degrees, and strong analytical skills. Salaries vary by industry, location, and organization size, but senior policy positions often have higher compensation compared to entry-level roles.

What are popular job titles related to Policy Strategist jobs in California?

For Policy Strategist jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Policy Strategist jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Policy Strategist jobs in California are:

Policy Strategist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Policy Strategist job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Policy Advisor

Waymo

Mountain View, CA

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Waymo Policy and Government Affairs team has a front seat in this exciting moment in the evolution of autonomous driving technology, transportation and tech policy. Successful navigation of the policy landscape is critically important to deploying and scaling our business. Our team works directly with policymakers and third party groups at the national, state and local levels to help advance transportation policy, educate on the safety benefits of the technology, and advance consumer awareness and acceptance. Internally, our efforts support the innovative work of engineering, product, strategy, and partnerships teams, and we work closely with highly-skilled legal and safety experts.

This role is based in the SF Bay Area and will be based in either the SF or Mountain View offices and reports to the Regional Head of the West

You will:

  • Lead regional public policy strategy, legislative advocacy, and regulatory engagement across the San Francisco Bay Area (San Francisco, North Bay, East Bay, and Silicon Valley/San Jose).
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for city councils, county boards of supervisors, regional transit authorities, and local Departments of Transportation (DOTs).
  • Partner cross-functionally with Public Affairs, the First Responder Ambassador team, and Regional Policy leads to ensure aligned messaging and operational continuity.
  • Track, analyze and develop policy positions on relevant  municipal ordinances and regional policy initiatives.
  • Represent the company at public hearings, council meetings, community roundtables, and industry coalition working groups.
  • Build coalitions with local business associations, civic leaders, and community groups to advance key policy priorities.

You have:

  • 5+ years of experience in local government affairs, municipal public policy, or legislative advocacy in the SF Bay Area
  • Demonstrated track record of building effective relationships with elected officials, agency staff, and community stakeholders.
  • Deep knowledge of Bay Area municipal governance, local legislative processes, and regional transportation/infrastructure agencies.
  • Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, with experience aligning policy goals alongside operations, comms, and safety team
  • Exceptional written, verbal, and public-speaking skills with the ability to distill complex technical issues for civic audiences.

We prefer:

  • Background in mobility, autonomous vehicles, micromobility, logistics, or emerging technology policy.

Travel:

  • 40% local travel across the greater San Francisco Bay Area for municipal meetings, stakeholder engagement, and community events, with occasional trips to corporate headquarters.

Apply