Policy Research Analyst, North Carolina Association of County Commissioners
The North Carolina Association of County Commissioners (NCACC) is seeking a Policy Research Analyst. The Research Analyst supports the development and execution of NCACC’s research program and supports NCACC’s policy and advocacy efforts by conducting data analysis, carrying out research projects, and producing high-quality, data-driven materials. This position will work closely under the Fiscal Policy and Research Director to expand NCACC’s research portfolio, support county-specific data requests, and produce reports and presentations that help counties make informed decisions. Work will include regular public presentations and travel at least one night per month within North Carolina. This position is based in Raleigh, N.C. with the option to work remotely.
To Apply: Email cover letter and resume to humanresources@ncacc.org.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Research & Data Analysis
Conduct research and analysis on county governance, finance, demographics, and policy issues to support NCACC’s legislative agenda and member services.
Find and analyze data from a wide variety of sources, including state and federal agencies, surveys, and county reports; create data visualizations to help convey the information in a clear and engaging way.
Develop county-specific research materials, including customized data presentations for Board of Commissioners retreats and other county meetings.
Respond to county commissioner requests for data and research support, including benchmarking studies and trend analysis.
Development of Research Products
Assist in producing and maintaining research publications.
Develop new research publications, reports, and policy briefs that provide meaningful insights into county operations, challenges, and opportunities.
Assist with tracking and analyzing county election results, election method changes, and board composition over time to support historical and policy research.
Survey North Carolina counties on topics that may include salaries, tax policies, and fund balance practices, and produce summary reports for members.
Help improve NCACC’s ability to store, track, and utilize historical data on counties.
Member & Internal Support
Support NCACC staff by providing research assistance for presentations, reports, and advocacy materials.
Assist in responding to county inquiries related to demographic, financial, and operational trends.
Develop visuals and written materials that translate complex data into accessible, easy-to-understand formats for county officials, legislators, and the public.
Work collaboratively with NCACC’s Outreach, Government Relations, and Communications teams to integrate research into member engagement and advocacy efforts.
County Support
Liaise with county commissioners and county staff to respond to information requests and to provide guidance on data topics as requested.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Salary
Hiring Range: $87,000 - $92,000
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education/Experience:
Work requires broad knowledge in a general professional or technical field. This knowledge is typically acquired through four years of college resulting in a Bachelor’'s degree or its equivalent; a Master’s degree is strongly preferred. Relevant fields of study include Public Policy, Economics, Political Science, Social Sciences such as Sociology or Psychology, Statistics, Data Science, or other related social science or research-oriented disciplines.
Two to five years’ experience as a budget or policy analyst, data analyst, research analyst, program evaluator, or in a related position involving data analysis and research in a government or public policy setting. Graduate education may be substituted for professional experience.
Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:
Exceptional research abilities: Skilled in gathering, verifying, and synthesizing data from multiple sources, including government reports and online databases. Ability to quickly and effectively find accurate information.
Proficiency in Key Software and Tools: Expert-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint required, with a strong ability to self-teach and adapt to new data analysis or visualization tools as needed. Experience with data visualization platforms such as Power BI, Tableau, or similar tools preferred but not required.
Strong data analysis and visualization skills: Ability to analyze complex datasets and create clear, compelling visualizations that communicate insights to diverse audiences, including elected officials and stakeholders.
Effective communication and presentation skills: Comfortable speaking to groups and presenting data-driven insights in a way that is accessible to non-technical audiences. Strong writing skills for reports, summaries, and presentations.
Independent problem-solving and critical thinking: Ability to assess issues, interpret data, and make informed recommendations with minimal supervision.
Collaboration and relationship-building: Strong ability to work with internal teams, government officials, and external stakeholders to support data-driven decision-making.
Certificates and Licenses:
Valid Driver’s License
Special Requirements
The physical demands described below are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Standing — Occasionally (Up to 2 hrs. / shift)
Walking — Occasionally (Up to 2 hrs. / shift)
Sitting — Constantly (5-8 hrs. / shift)
Lifting up 50 lbs. — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Carrying — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Pushing/Pulling — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Climbing — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Balancing — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Kneeling/Crouching — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Crawling — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Reaching/Handing — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Grasping/Feeling — Rarely (not a regular part of job)
Talking — Constantly (5-8 hrs. / shift)
Hearing — Constantly (5-8 hrs. / shift)
Repetitive Motions, e.g. typing — Frequently (2-5 hrs. / shift)
Eye/Hand Coordination — Occasionally (Up to 2 hrs. / shift)
Close vision — Frequently (2-5 hrs. / shift)
Miscellaneous
Occasional travel required, usually about 20-25 days per year. Typical work hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. This position is based in Raleigh, N.C. with the option to work remotely.
To Apply: Email cover letter and resume to humanresources@ncacc.org.
Link to job posting: https://www.ncacc.org/job/policy-research-analyst/