About Texas 2036 

Texas 2036 is a nonprofit public policy organization building long-term, data-driven strategies that ensure Texas’ continued prosperity by identifying and building support for nonpartisan legislative solutions that address problems in Texas today — and in the future.

We achieve this by creating a strategic framework supported by robust data resources, ambitious legislative agendas and coalitions advocating for meaningful state policies. We are a dynamic, rapidly growing organization seeking energetic individuals passionate about identifying and developing data-informed, pragmatic legislative options to address the critical issues that will matter most to all Texans.

Summary 

Texas 2036 uses data to drive civic demand for non-partisan solutions that will improve the lives and opportunities of all Texans. The Policy Advisor for K-12 Education will play a significant role in developing and advancing Texas 2036’s agenda related to K-12 education in Texas. The role emphasizes strategic vision, coalition leadership, and the ability to translate data into actionable policy reforms that address achievement gaps and raise outcomes for all students. The Policy Advisor will engage in the upcoming legislative sessions and collaborate with a team of professionals to drive data-driven solutions to address Texas’ educational challenges. This position will serve as a subject-matter expert, participating in the establishment of organizational priorities for K-12 education and producing high-quality research and recommendations that inform policymakers and stakeholders.

Responsibilities 

The Policy Advisor will evaluate K-12 education policies to develop and advance recommendations for improving education quality and equity in Texas. The Policy Advisor is expected to: 

• Assist in the development of K-12 policy solutions by identifying systemic challenges and designing evidence-based solutions. 
• Identify, collect, and analyze complex data related to K-12 education, focusing on funding models, academic standards, assessment systems, and accountability measures to support data-driven policy analysis. 
• Research and evaluate state education laws, rules, and operations, identifying opportunities to refine and advance K-12 policy priorities, particularly those aimed at closing achievement gaps and raising overall student achievement. 
• Manage complex projects and coordinate with external consultants and team members to ensure high-quality analysis and deliverables. 
• Write policy recommendations, reports, and briefs on key K-12 education topics to inform policymakers and the public while advancing policy reforms. 
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key education stakeholders, including policymakers, researchers, and advocacy organizations, to align and advance policy goals. 
• Monitor and report on state policy activities related to K-12 education, including legislative proposals, media reports, and studies from researchers, academic institutions, and advocacy organizations.
• Participate in public speaking engagements, including legislative hearings, panel discussions, and educational conferences, to advocate for K-12 education reform in Texas.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support the organization in achieving its long-term education policy goals. 

Qualifications 

The ideal candidate will have a combination of the following qualifications and experience: 

• 4+ years of public policy experience, including working with the Texas Legislature and/or relevant state agencies required, preferably with a focus on K-12 education policy. Advanced degrees in related fields and teaching experience may count toward experience. 
• A strong understanding of K-12 education policy issues, including funding mechanisms, assessment and accountability systems, curricular and instructional standards, and achievement gaps. 
• Results-oriented attitude with a self-motivated, entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic, and collaborative environment while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong communication skills, including team, interpersonal, public speaking, and written communication, with the ability to convey complex, data-driven policy recommendations clearly and persuasively to a variety of audiences. 
• Ability to respectfully engage, support, and collaborate in an intellectually diverse and creative work environment with colleagues and stakeholders of diverse personal and ideological backgrounds. This includes a commitment to constructive dialogue on controversial topics impacting our state. 
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to synthesize qualitative and quantitative data to develop actionable, evidence-based policy solutions. Ability, familiarity, or experience working with publicly available datasets, including turning datasets into powerful visualizations preferred. 
• Ability to translate broad concepts and goals into concrete tasks and implementation plans for policy advancement. 
• Ability to effectively manage external consultants. 
• Availability to work outside of standard office hours, including nights and weekends, as needed during legislative sessions. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive, etc.). 

Compensation and Benefits 

Texas 2036 offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience. Employees are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including health, vision, and dental insurance with employee premiums paid by Texas 2036, a cell phone stipend, and a 401K matching program. Additionally, employees enjoy generous paid time-off and paid parental leave policies. Texas 2036 fosters a flexible and entrepreneurial work environment, emphasizing personal accountability, collaboration, and professional conduct. 

Location 

The Policy Advisor position will be based in Texas 2036’s Austin office. This is a hybrid role, and the Policy Advisor will be expected to be present in the Austin office during the workday three days a week on average. Additional office days may be required as needed, particularly during legislative sessions. The Policy Advisor must be able to travel (up to 20% of the time) to cities across Texas for meetings with stakeholders, including board members, partners, and Texas 2036 colleagues. 

To Apply 

If you are interested in applying for the Policy Advisor, K-12 Education position, please send an email to jobs@texas2036.org. Include your resume as well as a cover letter addressing your interest in the position and how your experience aligns with the position’s responsibilities and qualifications.