Lead Researcher, Housing and Cities at Sightline Institute: Drive Policy Change|Deadline 8 May 2026
The Lead Researcher, Housing and Cities role at the Sightline Institute is a compelling opportunity for professionals dedicated to creating sustainable, equitable, and abundant housing solutions. This remote position is based in Washington, US, with a full-time salary range of USD $106,000–$125,000 per year. With a focus on policy research, advocacy, and strategy development, the role allows candidates to have a direct impact on housing affordability, climate resilience, and equitable urban growth in Cascadia.
About Sightline Institute
Sightline Institute is a nonprofit think tank that tackles pressing environmental, social, and urban issues in the Pacific Northwest. Through rigorous research, policy analysis, and strategic communication, Sightline works to advance sustainable and equitable solutions. Housing is a key focus area, as the organization recognizes that zoning restrictions, urban sprawl, and inequitable policies contribute to displacement, unaffordable living, and environmental degradation.
Role Overview
The Lead Researcher, Housing and Cities serves as a thought leader and policy expert. Reporting to the Senior Director of Housing and Cities, the researcher will develop strategies, analyze legislation, and engage in advocacy efforts to expand housing opportunities. The position requires collaboration with staff, contributors, and stakeholders across Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, Alaska, and British Columbia.
Key objectives of the role include:
- Leading research to support pro-housing policy reforms
- Developing strategies to implement and communicate housing solutions
- Advocating for policies that reduce barriers to housing choice and equity
Essential Responsibilities
The Lead Researcher will undertake a variety of responsibilities, blending research, writing, advocacy, and team leadership:
- Policy Research & Analysis:
- Conduct in-depth research on zoning reform and housing regulations
- Develop actionable policy recommendations for state and local governments
- Advocacy & Strategy Implementation:
- Collaborate with cross-partisan coalitions to advance housing reforms
- Engage in legislative tracking, lobbying, and communication campaigns
- Writing & Communication:
- Produce articles, policy memos, talking points, and graphics
- Deliver presentations and serve as a media resource for housing issues
- Team Leadership & Mentorship:
- Supervise contributors and coordinate cross-team initiatives
- Foster collaboration across research, advocacy, and communication teams
- Stakeholder Engagement:
- Build relationships with policymakers, community leaders, and partners
- Incorporate diverse perspectives, including racial, economic, and geographic equity
Desired Skills and Experience
Ideal candidates will bring a strong blend of research, policy, and interpersonal skills:
- Professional Background: At least eight years in policy development, research, or legislative strategy, preferably related to housing and land use
- Analytical Skills: Ability to distill large volumes of information into actionable insights and strategic recommendations
- Communication Skills: Top-notch written and oral skills for diverse audiences, including policymakers and the public
- Collaboration & Independence: Comfortable managing workplans, deadlines, and competing priorities both independently and on teams
- Relationship Building: Demonstrated ability to cultivate respectful, effective partnerships across cultural and political differences
- Equity Commitment: Dedication to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in research and advocacy work
- Preferred Expertise: Advanced experience in GIS, real estate development economics, or demographic analysis is a plus
Sightline also values candidates who may not meet every qualification but demonstrate strong foundational skills, keen instincts, and the ability to grow into the role.
Compensation and Benefits
Sightline offers a competitive compensation and benefits package to support its staff:
- Salary Range: USD $106,000–$125,000 plus a 10% employer contribution to retirement (effectively increasing total compensation)
- Healthcare: Full medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees, partial coverage for dependents
- Paid Time Off: Four weeks of vacation, twelve paid holidays, and two weeks of health and wellness leave
- Parental & Sabbatical Leave: 12 weeks of paid parental leave and a three-month paid sabbatical every seven years
- Remote Work Support: Monthly stipends for remote work essentials
- Professional Development: Mentoring, training, and opportunities for growth
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness Eligibility: As a nonprofit, employees may qualify for PSLF
Location & Work Environment
This is a remote position with a requirement to work from Washington state. Employees benefit from a flexible, supportive, and collegial environment. While the position is remote, regular engagement with teams and occasional in-person gatherings ensure collaboration and professional connection.
How to Apply
Candidates should apply online at Sightline Careers and include the following materials in a single PDF:
- Resume
- Cover letter outlining relevant skills and experience, including equity and justice work
- Writing sample (2–4 pages) demonstrating policy analysis or public policy recommendations
Applications should be named using the convention LastName_FirstName_Position. The deadline for priority consideration is May 8, 2026, although applications will be accepted until the position is filled.
Why This Role Matters
The Lead Researcher, Housing and Cities, is critical to Sightline’s mission of creating sustainable and equitable urban communities. By combining policy expertise, research skills, and advocacy, the role directly influences housing policy and urban development in the Pacific Northwest. It is ideal for candidates who are passionate about social equity, data-driven policy, and collaborative solutions to complex housing challenges.
Join Our WhatsApp Community
Disclaimer: Remote Job Opportunities (RJO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to RJO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
