Policy Analyst (Operations & Policy Analyst 2)

Initial Posting Date:
10/09/2026
Application Deadline:
10/18/2026
Agency:
Oregon Public Defense Commission
Salary Range:
$5,893 - $8,703
Position Type:
Employee
Position Title:
Policy Analyst (Operations & Policy Analyst 2)
Job Description:
Policy AnalystPermanent | Full Time | Salem, OR
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is seeking a detail oriented and collaborative Policy Analyst to join our Policy team. If you enjoy turning complex requirements into clear, practical guidance and helping shape policies that support meaningful public service, we encourage you to apply!
Position: Policy Analyst (OPA2)
This recruitment will be used to establish a list of qualified applicants to fill the current vacancy and may be used to fill future vacancies as they occur.
This is a hybrid position
Location: Salem, Oregon
Salary Range: $5,893- $8,703
About the Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC)
The Oregon Public Defense Commission (OPDC) is an agency governed by a 13-member commission appointed by the Governor, which serves as the governing body for Oregon’s public defense system. The Commission provides policy direction and oversight for the administration of the system. The legal services provided by OPDC represent an essential component of Oregon’s public safety system.
OPDC negotiates contracts with trial-level public defense providers and administers and distributes funds for representation and related services for cases during the biennium for criminal, juvenile, and civil commitment cases. The Agency provides compliance and oversight to the trial community providers through quality assurance practices, training, and education. Financial Services processes all expenses related to representation in public defense cases. The Appellate Division provides direct legal representation in the state appellate courts in criminal cases, juvenile dependency and termination of parental rights cases, and parole cases. Other services in the Agency include Data Collection and Analysis, General Counsel, Human Resources, Information Technology Services, Internal Audit, and Policy Development.
OPDC is dedicated to ensuring high-quality legal representation for individuals who are constitutionally entitled to counsel. OPDC works to strengthen Oregon's public defense system through direct representation, statewide coordination, oversight, policy development, and collaboration with justice system partners.
What you will do
This position supports the agency’s policy and operations efforts by researching, developing, and maintaining policies and procedures. The position coordinates and monitors the annual policy review process, analyzes and communicates review results to the Policy Team and agency management, and collaborates with staff across sections to update existing policies and procedures and develop new guidance as needed.
The Policy Analyst position is also responsible for ensuring policies and procedures are accurately maintained and accessible by posting and updating approved documents on the agency’s internal SharePoint site and external agency website.
For the full position description, please send your request to: opds.hr.info@opds.state.or.us
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in Business or Public Administration, Behavioral or Social Sciences, Finance, Political Science, or any degree demonstrating the capacity for the knowledge and skills; and two (2) years of professional-level evaluative, analytical, and planning work.
OR
Any combination of experience and education equivalent to five (5) years of experience that typically supports the knowledge and skills for the classification.
Desired Attributes
The ideal candidate will possess the following skills and attributes to effectively support policy research, analysis, development, implementation, and continuous improvement:
Experience researching, analyzing, and developing policies, procedures, administrative rules, and processes, including evaluating existing policies and conducting policy reviews to ensure effectiveness and alignment with agency requirements.
Demonstrated ability to evaluate existing policies and processes, research best practices, identify opportunities for improvement, and develop solutions that support agency and program objectives.
Knowledge and understanding of interpreting statutes, regulations, administrative rules, and legislative changes and applying them to agency programs and operations.
Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders to develop, implement, and communicate policies and procedures, including providing training, presentations, and guidance to staff and stakeholders.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to translate complex information into clear and understandable guidance.
Experience managing policy records, documentation, forms, and electronic information systems, including SharePoint or similar platforms.
What’s in it for you
Comprehensive Benefits Package
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Basic life insurance
Optional supplemental benefits
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Generous Paid Leave
10 paid holidays annually
3 personal business days each year
Vacation leave that increases every 5 years of service
Monthly sick leave accrual