Research and Policy Analyst at Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority
The Pennsylvania Intergovernmental Cooperation Authority (PICA) is an independent authority of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania established to enhance the fiscal stability of the City of Philadelphia by providing fiscal oversight. PICA seeks a thoughtful and curious Research and Policy Analyst to conduct financial and public policy research and analysis in support of PICA’s mission.
The Research and Policy Analyst will contribute to improving the City of Philadelphia by monitoring and reporting on Philadelphia’s financial condition, evaluating the City’s FiveYear Financial Plans and Quarterly City Managers Reports, conducting focused research on key policy issues, collaborating with stakeholders at various levels of government, and writing, visualizing, publishing, and publicizing findings and recommendations.
Primary Responsibilities
Five-Year Financial Plan Monitoring and Evaluation
Monitor the City’s financial condition and compliance with the Five-Year Financial Plan.
Compile and organize data to produce revenue, spending, and overtime reports.
Conduct data-based evaluations of the Five-Year Financial Plan’s key assumptions and projections.
Public Policy Research and Analysis
Support in-depth research on policies affecting City finances with research, analysis, and writing.
Write, edit, and publish issue papers on relevant and significant policy topics.
Monitor and evaluate legislative proposals and actions impacting City revenues or expenditures.
Communications
Provide support and coordination for events hosted by PICA.
Format documents and visualize data for release.
Draft and post content on PICA’s LinkedIn and website.
Qualifications
PICA values diverse experiences and is open to flexible qualifications. If you are passionate about this role and meet some of the key criteria, we encourage you to apply.
Knowledge, Skills, and Experience
Diligent attention to detail and exemplary commitment to the accuracy and transparency of analytic work. Experience preparing concise, accurate, and defensible answers to complex public policy and public finance questions.
Knowledge of policy research methods and fiscal analysis, with a focus on public policy implications and comparative analysis.
Ability to clearly and succinctly convey economic, statistical, and financial concepts verbally, visually through graphics and images, and in writing in a manner that is appropriate for the intended audience.
Command of public data (ex. US Census, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Economic Analysis).
Motivation to improve analytical methods and seek out and incorporate new sources of data.
Driven by curiosity and willingness to ask questions to deepen knowledge and understanding.
Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Experience with InDesign and/or Illustrator preferred. The ability to use other software for data analysis and visualization is a plus.
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple ongoing projects, work both independently and collaboratively, and manage time effectively to meet deadlines.
Lived expertise as a member of a marginalized or underrepresented group (or experience working with such communities) is highly valued.
Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, preferably in public policy, statistics, urban studies, city planning, economics, finance, or another field of relevance to local government.
Minimum of a relevant graduate degree or two years of relevant post-college experience required.
Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000
Candidates with more than minimum experience and/or direct experience with financial data and analysis related to the City of Philadelphia will be eligible for salaries at the higher end of the range ($75,000 - $85,000).
Why Pursue a Career with PICA?
PICA provides employees with challenging and rewarding work that supports personal and career growth while improving the community. We are proud to offer comprehensive benefits and a culture that encourages work/life balance. This includes:
Hybrid work schedule with 2-3 days a week in PICA’s centrally-located 1500 Walnut Street office in Philadelphia. Flexible daily schedules.
Generous paid time off: 12 paid holidays, 5 personal days, 10 vacation days, 10 paid sick days. Vacation and sick leave roll over, and accrual rates grow over time.
Top tier medical benefits, including Medical Plans, Prescription Drug Benefits, Dental Benefits, Vision Benefits and other voluntary benefits.
Pension Plan with defined contribution and defined benefit options.
About PICA
PICA was created in 1991 to assist the City of Philadelphia in overcoming a severe financial crisis. The Authority was created through the joint efforts of concerned Philadelphians and State officials who envisioned a structure which would assist the City in putting its revenue collection and spending processes in order and at the same time reach a consensus on its future priorities, assets, and limitations. PICA was designed to address the City’s shortterm financing challenges, while simultaneously overseeing a long-term financial planning process that would restore the confidence of investors, residents, and public officials in the ability of the City to maintain financial stability over the long term.
PICA is administered by a governing Board consisting of five voting members and two exofficio, non-voting members. The Governor, the President Pro Tempore of the State Senate, the Minority Leader of the State Senate, the Speaker of the State House of Representatives, and the Minority Leader of the State House of Representatives each appoint one voting member to the Board. The ex-officio members are the Budget Secretary of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the Director of Finance of the City of Philadelphia.
To Apply
Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and resume to pica@picapa.org. In your cover letter, please include discussion of what draws you to PICA’s work.
Link to job posting: https://picapa.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Research-and-Policy-Analyst-January-2026.pdf