Policy Analyst

Council of State Governments•Lexington, KY

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Council of State Governments (CSG) is seeking a Policy Analyst to provide research and staff support to assigned staff groups and/or committees. This role involves working with CSG's policy, membership, and communications teams, as well as regional offices, affiliates, and members to monitor, understand, and share best practices and analysis on pressing state policy issues. The Policy Analyst will conduct research, write and edit policy analysis papers and communication pieces, engage in member outreach, and contribute to group projects. The position may also involve representing CSG constituents in external forums. This is a service-oriented role requiring independent judgment under the direction of a CSG Program Manager or Director. The position is based in Lexington, KY, with flexibility for remote work part of the week.

Requirements

One (1) year of relevant work experience in state, local or federal government, a public policy organization, membership association, non-profit, or other relevant organization.
Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field of study or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Working knowledge of the legislative, executive and judicial process.
Demonstrated experience and knowledge of general state government public policy, policy issues and programming.
Experience working collaboratively with multiple partners, with a preference for having worked with public officials.
Ability to work and conduct activities in a nonpartisan political environment.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle politically sensitive work.
Steadfast commitment to providing CSG members with timely, effective customer service.
Strong research skills.
Strong writing skills, including policy description and analysis as well as more general writing such as correspondence, memos and articles.
Demonstrated proficiency in oral communications.
Ability to facilitate complex policy conversation.
Analytical, with an ability to think critically, distill and present complex information in a concise manner.
Skill and competence to work effectively with a myriad of state officials, including high level executive, legislative and judicial officials.
Ability to work with leading experts in the state government field including researchers, policy experts, and program providers.
Strong interpersonal skills including self-awareness, sensitivity and valuing others.
Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be nonpartisan in performing CSG duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds.
Ability to support proposal and grant writing.
Ability to work independently and to handle a variety of tasks and assignments concurrently while adhering to specific instructions, technical direction and deadlines.
Ability to work effectively in a highly collaborative team environment.
Self-motivated with ability to take initiative and see complex tasks through to completion.
Proficiency with technology used in office settings; ability to learn new software programs and evaluation/analysis techniques.
Flexibility and willingness to take on new tasks as necessary to meet evolving needs and objectives of organization and its members.
Hard working, dependable, resourceful and willing to work non-traditional hours, usually dependent on events.
Aptitude for managing projects.
Willingness to travel as needed.

Responsibilities

Monitor relevant policy developments at the state, federal, and international levels related to the interests and objectives of supported constituent groups.
Conduct research on innovative policies and programs at local, state, and federal levels; analyze and synthesize findings for a policymaker audience; identify trends and best practices.
Develop and write reports and other research products that are relevant to policy deliberations and easily understood by the public, media, and policymakers.
Collaborate with Communications staff, external writers, and consultants on reports and research products.
Assist in planning, organizing, and convening meetings by arranging speakers, identifying topics, supporting logistical planning, preparing information, and participating in state convenings.
Participate in planning, coordinating, and executing policy workshops, online webinars, technical tours, state visits, and delegations for state elected officials and staff.
Assist in the administration of collaborative projects addressing issues of top concern to state officials.
Present research and organizational information before various groups.
Provide staff support to CSG committees, working with officers and members to identify, prioritize, and pursue committee objectives, including workplans, agendas, events, and deliverables.
Coordinate and collaborate with national organizations, researchers, and national policy experts on collaborative projects.
Prepare concise written responses to information requests from legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
Develop and manage relationships with state officials and policymakers, including legislative and governmental contacts.
Share expertise and collaborate with CSG's regional offices and affiliate groups.
Provide direct outreach to CSG members.
Represent CSG and states' viewpoints and positions to the Federal government and external stakeholders.
Assist with regional and/or national conference programs and meetings.
Develop and expand knowledge base on local, state, and federal policy, processes, programming, and best practices.
Assist with grant and proposal development.
Perform writing and editing for CSG newsletters and other communication pieces.
Travel overnight and for varying lengths to fulfill duties and responsibilities.
Perform other assigned responsibilities and duties to support the overall mission of the organization.