Policy Advisor-Health and Human Services Agency-26037304UHHSA

About the Department

Position Summary: 

The Policy Advisor for Health and Human Services is responsible for supporting the development, analysis, and advancement of policy initiatives related to the County’s Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA). This includes programs and services related to public health, behavioral health, homelessness, housing stability, child welfare, and services for seniors and persons with disabilities.

Under the direction of the Director of Policy, the Policy Advisor provides professional-level policy analysis, develops recommendations for Board consideration, and supports the implementation of Board-directed actions. The Advisor will work collaboratively with County departments, community stakeholders, and internal staff to ensure that policy priorities reflect the needs of District 1 residents and align with County objectives.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Analyze HHSA initiatives, policies, and county programs related to the safety net, public health, behavioral health, homelessness services, housing development, child welfare, and services for seniors and people with disabilities. 
• Draft policy briefings, strategic memos, county legislation, and other recommendations to advance the Supervisor’s policy priorities and help address systemic inequities. 
• Draft talking points and speeches that communicate the Supervisor’s policies, priorities, and vision to constituents, stakeholders, and community leaders. 
• Serve as a liaison to County departments, community-based organizations, other elected offices, and advocacy organizations. 
• Conduct research and communicate policy strategies in support of the Supervisor’s legislative vision. 
• Coordinate with the Director of Community Engagement to elevate on-the-ground feedback. 
• Coordinate with the Director of Communications to advance public awareness of our office's Policy wins. 
• Provide support to the elected at community events coordinating scheduling, logistics, and constituent engagement. 
• Track state and federal funding streams and policy updates relevant to HHSA priorities. 

• 4+ years in public health, social services, or human services policy experience.
• Understanding of County health and social service systems. 
• Understanding of the Social Determinants of Health and how public policy drive social and health outcomes at the population level.
• Strong equity lens and community-centered approach.

• $80,000-$100,000 annually, based on experience.
• Defined benefit pension plan, with additional savings options through 457 and 401 accounts.
• County-paid flexible credits that allow you to choose from a variety of benefit plans, including medical, dental and vision insurances, short term disability and critical illness programs.
• County-paid life and accident insurance and long-term disability.
• Transit pass reimbursement program.
• 15 days of vacation a year, 14 County-paid holidays, floating holidays, paid sick leave, and discretionary executive time off. 

This role requires the ability to:

1. Analyze complex policy issues
2. Communicate clearly in writing
3. Translate ideas into actionable outcomes within government systems

To support a fair and efficient review process, applicants are asked to follow the submission instructions below.

Required Application Materials:

1. Resume

Please submit a current resume that clearly outlines your:

1. Relevant professional experience
2. Roles and responsibilities
3. Key accomplishments

2. Cover Letter (Required – 1 page maximum)

Your cover letter will be used as an initial writing and analytical sample.

Please ensure your cover letter includes the following:

A. Relevant Experience

Briefly describe your experience in one or more of the following areas:

1. Public health
2. Behavioral health
3. Homelessness or housing
4. Social services or safety net programs
5. Government or public sector systems

B. Policy or Program Example (Required)

Describe one specific policy, program, or initiative you have worked on.

Please include:

1. The issue or problem addressed
2. Your specific role
3. What actions you took
4. The outcome or result (if known)

C. Relevance to This Role

Briefly explain why your experience prepares you to contribute to this position, particularly in a fast-paced public sector environment.

Formatting Guidelines

1. Maximum 1 page
2. Use clear, concise language
3. Avoid overly technical or academic jargon
4. Focus on specific examples and outcomes, not general statements

Important Notes for Applicants

1. Strong applications will demonstrate both analytical thinking and evidence of execution
2. Preference will be given to candidates who can clearly show how they have translated ideas into action
3. Clarity and organization in writing are essential for this role

Optional (Encouraged)

You may include a brief writing sample (1–2 pages), such as:

1. A policy memo
2. Report excerpt
3. Briefing document

This is not required but may strengthen your application.

To Apply:

Please fill out the form and send us your resume and cover letter by May 15th.
Please submit your cover letter and resume at the following link: Policy Advisor – Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA)
For any questions please email Policy Director, Lyle Pavuk at lyle.pavuk@sdcounty.ca.gov. 

Conditions of Employment:

As part of the County of San Diego’s pre-employment process, prospective candidates will undergo a background check (including fingerprinting) and a pre-employment medical screening prior to beginning County employment. Additional types of background investigations may be conducted based on the job-related activities of the position. Current County employees may be excluded from this process.

As an employer of over 19,000 employees, the County of San Diego is an organization committed to veteran hiring, retention, and professional development. We recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by our veterans and value the unique expertise and leadership qualities they bring to our workforce. We strive to provide veterans with the resources and tools necessary to maximize their employment opportunities, and to assist veterans with their transition into civilian life by applying the valuable skills, knowledge and training acquired in service to positions and career paths at all levels within our large organization. Click on the resource links below to learn more about how the County of San Diego supports its veterans.

Veteran’s Preference Policy:

The County of San Diego offers preferential credits for military service to assist qualified applicants in transitioning from military to civilian careers with the County of San Diego. Please read the Veteran's Preference Policy for additional information. 

Military Skills Translator:

Do you need assistance translating your military experience into civilian experience? This tool can help! Please read the Military Skills Translator to access the tool. 

Strategic Plan: