Policy Analyst II

The Council of State Governments (CSG) is the nation's only organization serving all three branches of state government. CSG is a region-based forum that fosters the exchange of insights and ideas to help state officials shape public policy. This offers unparalleled regional, national and international opportunities to network, develop leaders, collaborate and create problem-solving partnerships. To learn more about CSG please visit our website at www.csg.org. To learn more about careers at CSG, and about our comprehensive benefit offerings, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, PSLF eligibility and more, please visit our website here . This opportunity is based in our Washington, DC office but offers flexibility to work from home part of the work week. JOB SUMMARY The Policy Analyst II works with CSG policy teams, membership and communications, as well as regional offices, affiliates, members and committees, to monitor, understand and share best practices and analysis on today's most pressing state policy issues. The work of the Policy Analyst II includes research, writing and editing policy analysis papers and communication pieces, member outreach and engagement, planning and executing virtual and in-person convenings, and contributing to various group projects and team activities. The Policy Analyst II may also represent CSG constituents in external forums. This specific position would primarily support a CSG federally funded project that is focused on improving employment outcomes for youth and young adults with disabilities by helping states enhance their youth service delivery and workforce systems. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Monitor relevant policy developments at the state, federal and international levels. Conduct research on innovative local, state and federal policies and programs; analyze and synthesize findings appropriate for a committee or other policymaker audience; identify trends and best practices. Develop, write, and compile reports and other research products that are highly relevant to CSG priorities and easily understood by the public, media and policymakers. Collaborate with Communications, external writers and other consultants on reports and research products. Assist in the planning, organizing, and convening of meetings by identifying topics, arranging for speakers, supporting logistical planning, preparing information, and staffing relevant meetings. Participate in efforts to plan, coordinate and execute policy workshops, committee meetings, online webinars, technical tours, state visits, and delegations for state elected officials and staff. Assist in the administration of collaborative projects aimed at addressing issues of top concern to state officials in one or more states. Present research and other organizational information before state legislative committees and other internal and external partners. Work with CSG staff to coordinate and collaborate with national organizations, researchers and national policy experts in carrying out work on collaborative projects. Prepare concise written responses to requests for information by 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. Provide direct outreach to CSG members. Represent CSG and states' viewpoints and positions to external stakeholders. Assist with regional and/or national conference programs and meetings. Assist with grant and proposal development. Travel overnight and for varying lengths to fulfill duties and responsibilities as needed. SKILLS AND ABILITIES Ability to work and conduct activities in a nonpartisan manner. Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle politically sensitive work. Steadfast commitment to providing CSG members with timely, effective customer service. Strong research skills including but not limited to qualitative and quantitative methods. 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 members, researchers, policy experts, and program providers. 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 Microsoft Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and internet applications; high proficiency in Microsoft Excel; ability to learn additional software programs and new evaluation/analysis techniques. Flexibility and willingness to take on new tasks as necessary to meet evolving needs and objectives of organization and its members. Ability to facilitate difficult conversations with individuals and committees for positive outcomes. Aptitude for researching, identifying, monitoring, and tracking legislation in the states. Hard working, dependable, resourceful and willing to work non-traditional hours, usually dependent on events. 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. EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS Three (3) years of relevant and 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 equivalent combination of education and experience. Working knowledge of legislative, executive, and judicial processes, as well as 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. COMPENSATION The salary range for this position, based in Washington, DC, is $70,000 to $80,000. This salary range is subject to change based on work location and market conditions. APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS Interested applicants must complete the online application and include resume and cover letter. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Equal Employment Opportunity employer (veterans/individuals with disabilities).