DESCRIPTION:  JLARC Research Analysts develop, lead, and conduct independent performance audits, program evaluations, sunset reviews, and other special studies of interest to legislators. 
             
JLARC’s Research Analysts work on issues at the forefront of public policy.  As a result of the variety of our audits, and how seriously they are considered, JLARC staff have broad exposure to policymakers and executives throughout state government.  Analysts may carry out some assignments individually or serve on a team, and may also manage consultants for portions of their assigned work. 

Our staff work in a very open and collaborative setting within an environment that is rich in ideas, and is surrounded by intelligent, creative, and supportive colleagues.  All staff share their work for discussion with their peers, and all staff are required to participate in a constructive critique of their work partners.  This principle permeates our organization, and enables an atmosphere of analytical refinement that always improves our final audit products.

To maintain the professional quality of our work, JLARC adheres to federal government auditing standards issued by the Government Accountability Office (GAO).

Qualifications: Because this work is demanding, time bound, and important, analysts must have superior time and task management skills.  They must understand the policymaking environment at the state level and work effectively and objectively with legislators, legislative and agency staff, as well as a broad range of policy stakeholders.

A Bachelor’s degree in public administration, education, economics, political science or a related field is required.  Preference may be given to applicants with performance audit, legislative and/or program evaluation experience or research skills.  A graduate degree in an appropriate field is strongly preferred, but emphasis will be placed on relevant experience.

JLARC offers a rare opportunity to work in a legislative environment that is high profile but also even-paced.  Our studies typically last between six and eighteen months in duration.  While these timelines are accompanied by very high expectations for depth and quality, they also allow us the flexibility to manage our project schedules to sustain a healthy home and family life.

Our staff work in a very open and collaborative setting within an environment that is rich in ideas, and is surrounded by intelligent, creative, and supportive colleagues.  All staff share their work for discussion with their peers, and all staff are required to participate in a constructive critique of their work partners.  This principle permeates our organization, and enables an atmosphere of analytical refinement that always improves our final audit products.

JLARC has a proven reputation for quality and independence.  The National Legislative Program and Evaluation Society, the professional association of legislative auditors, has honored JLARC with awards for each of the last ten years.