Budget Analyst

CBO’s Budget Analysis Division seeks an analyst for its Finance, Housing, and Education Cost Estimates Unit, which prepares multiyear budget projections and cost estimates for legislative proposals related to education, housing, commerce and banking, community and regional development, and administration of justice programs. The analyst’s portfolio will consist primarily of programs administered by the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security and the U.S. Postal Service.

The Congress relies on CBO’s work to prepare its annual budget plans, review the President’s budget proposals, and evaluate the budgetary effects of legislation. CBO’s analysts work closely with Congressional staff and federal agency officials; they have wide-ranging responsibilities and often contribute significantly to the legislative and budget process.

Qualifications

Applicants must have a graduate degree in public policy, public administration, economics, or a closely related field or a bachelor’s degree and at least four years’ experience working in budgeting or policy analysis.

Candidates exceeding those requirements also are encouraged to apply; experience will be considered in determining salary and job responsibilities.

The position requires the following:

·       The ability to accurately interpret and analyze legislative proposals;

·       Strong quantitative skills—proficiency in Excel is required, and familiarity with statistical software or a programming language is preferred;

·       Strong oral and written communication skills, especially the ability to explain complex material clearly and concisely to colleagues, Congressional staff, Members of Congress, and the public;

·       The ability to work on several analytical problems simultaneously and to complete projects under tight deadlines;

·       The ability to work both independently and collaboratively; and

·       A desire to contribute to policy analysis in a nonpartisan setting.

Candidates must be able to obtain and maintain a Tier 1 (NACI) investigation.

Salary and Benefits

Salaries at CBO are competitive with those at other organizations and are commensurate with experience, education, and other qualifications. CBO offers excellent benefits and a collegial, respectful work environment.

How to Apply

Submit a cover letter, a one- to two-page résumé, a brief writing sample, and contact information for three references at www.cbo.gov/careers. Recent graduates must submit unofficial transcripts. This position will close on August 24, 2026. Incomplete applications will not be considered.