Policy & Management Analyst (County Manager’s Office)

About the Role

As a Policy and Management Analyst, you will support the County Manager and executive leadership team in policy research and development, program evaluation and analysis, and implementation of the County's strategic plan. The role will support a broad range of county programs and services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research, analysis, and evaluation to support the executive team and Board of Commissioners with policy development, strategy, and decision-making.
• Prepare and deliver briefing materials, reports, presentations, and recommendations for the County Manager and senior leadership.
• Lead or support special projects assigned by the executive team, including scoping, timeline development, stakeholder engagement, and reporting.
• Coordinate cross-functional teams working on strategic initiatives, operational improvements, or countywide programs.
• Participate in initiatives to implement the County’s strategic plan.
• Serve as one of two Wake County staff voting members of the Wake Transit Planning Advisory Committee (TPAC) and participate on committees considering various public transportation programs and policies.
• Participate in the Board of Commissioners’ agenda development process, including review of items and drafting of meeting materials.
• Coordinate development of materials for the Board of Commissioners’ committee meetings and work sessions.
• Support development, negotiation, and administration of funding agreements with County partners that provide services to the County, including performance reporting and tracking.
• Support the County’s legislative advocacy efforts through legislative research, analysis, and bill tracking.
• Respond to inquiries from commissioners, county staff, partner agencies, and the public; ensure accurate and timely follow-up.

About the Team

The County Manager's Office is responsible for the executive leadership of Wake County Government. The County Manager serves as the executive leader for the County and is appointed by the County's elected Board of Commissioners. The County Manager's Office provides advice and implements Board of Commissioners policy directives, recommends courses of action, and is responsible for daily County operations. The Office accomplishes its responsibilities through sound organizational and regional leadership, effective communication, and frequent collaboration to ensure County services are provided in a timely, efficient, and fiscally responsible manner.

Requirements

The Basics (Required Education and Experience)

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Public Policy, Political Science, Business Administration or a related field
• Two years of progressively responsible experience in local government, public administration, policy analysis or a related field
• Equivalent education and experience are accepted

Please include ALL prior work experience on your application and resume.

Beyond the Basics (Preferred Education and Experience)

• Master’s degree in public administration (MPA), public policy (MPP), business administration (MBA), or a closely related field.
• Two years of progressively responsible experience in local government, public administration, policy analysis, or a related field.
• Experience supporting executive-level decision-making or coordinating cross-departmental initiatives is helpful.
• A background working with legislative issues, transportation planning, or strategic-plan implementation is beneficial.

Qualifications

Strong candidates will demonstrate:

• A genuine commitment to public service and interest in local government.
• Knowledge of local government operations, structures, and service delivery, with an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of counties in North Carolina.
• Ability to research complex issues, interpret data, evaluate options, and develop clear, actionable recommendations.
• Skill in analyzing organizational processes and identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, effectiveness, and customer service.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to prepare concise reports, presentations, and briefings for leadership and elected officials.
• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to navigate complex or sensitive issues with tact and professionalism.
• Ability to work collaboratively across departments and build effective working relationships with staff, community partners, and external organizations.

About Wake County

Home to the State Capital, Wake County is one of the fastest growing areas in the nation and the most populous county in the state, with more than 1.1 million residents. The County has received national and international rankings and accolades from publications such as Money, Fortune, and Time magazines as being one of the best places to live, work and play. The central location of the County allows for a short drive to the spectacular mountains or coast.

Wake County Government is governed by a seven-member Board of Commissioners, who are elected at-large to serve two-year terms. Wake County Government has a general operating budget of $1.874 billion, employs over 4400 employees, experiences minimal turnover, and is an award-winning leader in wellness and technology initiatives; such as offering employees and covered spouses free access to the Employee Health Center.

Pay

Hiring Range: $69,421.00 - $93,722.00

Market Range: $69,421.00 - $118,020.00

Schedule

Monday - Friday, 8:30 am - 5:15 pm