Senior Policy Advisor: Policy & Innovation Lead

Harris County; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 95,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Harris County in Houston, TX seeks an experienced Senior Policy Advisor to provide advanced policy research, legislative analysis, and strategic support to the policy function. The role develops policy recommendations, prepares executive briefing materials, and supports Commissioners Court matters and continuous improvement initiatives.

The position reports to the Director of Policy and Innovation, collaborates with Intergovernmental & Global Affairs, Data/Finance teams, and county departments,

Qualifications

• Minimum three (3) years of progressively responsible experience in public policy, legislative affairs, or related fields.
• Experience conducting policy analysis and developing recommendations for executive leadership.
• Experience analyzing legislation, regulations, or government policies.
• Experience preparing briefing materials for executive leadership or elected officials.

Responsibilities

• Conduct complex policy research and analysis to support strategic priorities.
• Develop policy memoranda, briefing documents, issue papers, and presentations for leadership.
• Provide briefings on legislative developments, policy issues, and operational impacts.
• Analyze proposed legislation affecting statutory responsibilities, operations, staffing, and funding.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders to inform policy analysis and recommendations.
• Support annual budget development with Finance and Division Chiefs.
• Monitor Commissioners Court agendas and provide timely leadership briefings.

Skills

Policy research

Legislative analysis

Briefing materials

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Data analysis

Strategic thinking

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy

Master’s Degree in Public Policy/Public Administration/Political Science

Job description

Harris County in Houston, TX seeks an experienced Senior Policy Advisor to provide advanced policy research, legislative analysis, and strategic support to the policy function. The role develops policy recommendations, prepares executive briefing materials, and supports Commissioners Court matters and continuous improvement initiatives.

The position reports to the Director of Policy and Innovation, collaborates with Intergovernmental & Global Affairs, Data/Finance teams, and county departments,