Policy Analyst II (Workforce Development focused on Disability Policy)

Council of State Governments•Washington, DC

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Policy Analyst II works with CSG policy teams, membership and communications, regional offices, affiliates, members and committees to monitor, understand and share analysis and best practices on pressing state policy issues. The role includes research, writing and editing policy analysis and communications, member outreach and engagement, planning and executing virtual and in-person convenings, and contributing to group projects and team activities. The analyst may also represent CSG constituents in external forums. This position primarily supports a federally funded CSG project to improve employment outcomes for youth and young adults with disabilities by helping states strengthen youth service delivery and workforce systems. The role is based in CSG’s Washington, DC office, with flexibility to work from home part of the work week. Overnight travel of varying lengths may be required, and work outside traditional hours may be needed, usually depending on events.

Requirements

At least three years of relevant, progressive work experience in state, local or federal government, a public policy organization, membership association, public university, consulting firm or other relevant organization.
Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, social policy, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Working knowledge of legislative, executive and judicial processes, and workforce development systems and policies.
Familiarity with federal and state workforce development policy, workforce programs, and related education, employment and economic mobility initiatives.
Demonstrated knowledge of state government public policy, workforce development policy issues and program administration.
Experience tracking, analyzing and communicating state workforce and public policy developments, including legislative and regulatory activities.
Experience with state legislative processes and procedures.
Experience compiling, maintaining and analyzing databases related to state legislation, workforce policies, programs or other policy initiatives.
Experience working with staff from state legislative service agencies, legislative committees, workforce development boards, state workforce agencies, and other state and federal policymakers.
Experience presenting technical policy, legislative or workforce development information to policymakers, practitioners and other stakeholders.
Experience convening and collaborating with diverse partners, including public officials, workforce development practitioners, educational institutions, employers, community-based organizations, and state or federal agencies.
Ability to work and conduct activities in a nonpartisan manner, maintain confidentiality and handle politically sensitive work, and provide timely, effective customer service to CSG members.
Strong research skills, including qualitative and quantitative methods; strong policy writing, analytical and oral communication skills; and ability to facilitate complex policy conversations.
Ability to critically analyze, distill and present complex information concisely.
Ability to work effectively with state officials, including senior executive, legislative and judicial officials, and with policy experts, researchers, members and program providers.
Ability to support proposal and grant writing.
Ability to work independently, manage concurrent assignments, follow instructions and technical direction, and meet deadlines.
Ability to work collaboratively, take initiative, and carry complex tasks through to completion.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook) and internet applications; high proficiency in Microsoft Excel; and ability to learn additional software and evaluation or analysis techniques.
Flexibility and willingness to take on new tasks as organizational and member needs evolve.
Ability to facilitate difficult conversations with individuals and committees toward positive outcomes.
Aptitude for researching, identifying, monitoring and tracking state legislation.
Dependability, resourcefulness and willingness to work non-traditional hours, usually depending on events.
Strong interpersonal skills, including self-awareness, sensitivity and valuing others.
Dedication to public service, civility, nonpartisanship and responsible stewardship of member and donor funds.

Responsibilities

Monitor relevant policy developments at state, federal and international levels.
Research innovative local, state and federal policies and programs; analyze and synthesize findings for committees and policymakers; and identify trends and best practices.
Develop, write and compile reports and research products relevant to CSG priorities and understandable to the public, media and policymakers.
Collaborate with Communications, external writers and consultants on reports and research products.
Plan and organize meetings, including identifying topics, arranging speakers, supporting logistics, preparing information and staffing meetings.
Help plan, coordinate and execute policy workshops, committee meetings, webinars, technical tours, state visits and delegations for state elected officials and staff.
Assist in administering collaborative projects addressing issues of concern to state officials in one or more states.
Present research and organizational information to state legislative committees and internal and external partners.
Coordinate with CSG staff, national organizations, researchers and national policy experts on collaborative projects.
Prepare concise written responses to information requests from members of the legislative, executive and judicial branches.
Develop and manage relationships with state officials and policymakers, including legislative and other governmental contacts.
Share expertise and collaborate with CSG regional offices and affiliate groups as requested.
Conduct direct outreach to CSG members.
Represent CSG and states’ viewpoints and positions to external stakeholders.
Assist with regional and national conference programs and meetings.
Assist with grant and proposal development.
Travel overnight and for varying lengths as needed to fulfill duties and responsibilities.