The Office of Policy is a principal advisor to the Commissioner on major policy issues. It serves as the agency's focal point for policy analysis, and research, evaluation, and statistics. In that capacity, it seeks energetic, creative, intelligent people from a wide variety of backgrounds to join its team of analysts and researchers who will help shape the future of SSA programs. The Office of Policy comprises three components:
- The Office of Retirement Policy provides policy analysis in the areas of Social Security reform and Social Security retirement and survivor benefits. It also prepares short-turnaround analyses on critical issues for the Commissioner and other policymakers.
- The Office of Disability and Income Assistance Policy analyzes proposals to modify the Social Security Disability Insurance and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. This team examines ways to improve disability and income assistance programs, focusing on eligibility criteria, work incentives, program participation and costs, interactions with other programs, and administrative issues.
- The Office of Research, Evaluation, and Statistics conducts research to study the effects of Social Security and SSI, and proposed changes in those programs, on individuals and the economy. It is also responsible for evaluating the effects of major new initiatives and is the agency's source for statistics on the impact and operations of the Social Security and SSI programs and on the income of workers and beneficiaries.
Our analysts and researchers typically have a master's or doctoral degree or equivalent experience in economics, statistics, public administration, or a related field, although an advanced degree is not required. Knowledge of Social Security programs and data is highly desirable. Staff members must have strong verbal and written communication skills, excellent quantitative and critical reasoning skills, and the ability to think through complex policy issues.
In addition, the Office of Policy uses the Student Temporary Employment Program to reach candidates early in their careers. We have an intern program for graduate students, and we employ several students currently working toward their undergraduate degrees.
If you or someone you know has the necessary interest and skills, please forward a résumé and writing sample to eleanor.l.cooper@ssa.gov.
For more information about the structure and responsibilities of the Office of Policy, please see the section on Organization and Staffing.
The Office of Policy is seeking candidates for:
Our employees receive competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits that include health coverage, holiday and vacation leave, and a pension plan.
