The Policy Analyst is responsible, through self-direction and in concert with the Director of Policy, for providing policy analysis and research support to designated constituents, including one or more CSG East policy committees, to monitor, understand, and share analysis on relevant state policy issues. The Policy Analyst conducts research, writes, and edits policy papers, articles, and other documents and correspondence, coordinates webinars, contributes to various group projects and team activities as directed, and represents the CSG East region and constituents in external forums as appropriate. The Policy Analyst also contributes to publications, online resources, and social media efforts as directed.
The Policy Analyst is a service-oriented role that allows for exercise of independent judgment under the direction of the Director of Policy and the CSG East Director. The Policy Analyst maintains a collaborative relationship with the Director of Policy, the CSG Eastern Office Director, other staff, and external parties.
This opportunity is based in our New York City office but offers flexibility to work from home part of the work week.
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What you’ll do:
Specific responsibilities of the Policy Analyst include the following:
- Administers and provides staff support of assigned committee and program activities, including programmatic and logistical duties. Policy committees comprise state and provincial officials from the 18 CSG East member jurisdictions (New England and Mid-Atlantic states, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and eastern Canadian provinces.)
- Conducts policy research, surveys, and develops suggestions for the consideration by policymakers.
- Maintains communication, conducts outreach, and establishes rapport with legislators, as well as with federal, state, provincial, and local government officials, and representatives of other regional entities.
- Demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a non-partisan, non-advocacy perspective.
- Staffs one or more standing committee(s) of the CSG Eastern Office. Preference given to candidates with background in housing and fiscal issues. Specific duties include working with committee officers and members to identify, prioritize, and pursue committee objectives, including the development and production of committee workplans, meeting agendas, events, and other deliverables.
- Develops and manages relationships with state officials and policymakers, including legislative and other governmental contacts.
- Serves as principal staff liaison to two or more Eastern jurisdictions (states, provinces, territories).
- Responsible for tracking state sessions and coordinating visits to member state capitols to establish and maintain professional relationships, networks, and assist with promoting CSG East programs and services.
- Prepares concise written responses to information inquiries initiated by members of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
- Participates in the planning, organizing, and convening of policy workshops, online webinars, technical tours, and state visits by identifying topics, arranging for speakers, supporting logistical planning, preparing information, and participating in such programs.
- Contributes to Eastern Office publications, web-based resources, and social media efforts as directed.
- Serves as member of other in-house teams as assigned.
- Participates in/contributes to various CSG-wide activities.
What you’ll bring:
- Bachelor’s or advanced degree in public policy, political science, or related field (additional relevant experience may be substituted for education requirement).
- Three years’ experience in state government, public policy, association management, or related field.
- Research, writing, and policy analysis experience preferred.
- Working knowledge of the legislative, executive, and judicial process.
- Experience working collaboratively with multiple partners, with a preference for having worked with public officials.
- Ability to interact effectively with diverse people in different contexts and foster equity and inclusion through self-awareness, cultural 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.
- Exhibits appropriate interpersonal skills and relationships with both internal and external partners and maintains open and frequent communication with legislative members.
- Understanding of state and federal legislative processes.
- Maintains a network of state government contacts and resources.
- Excellent research, writing, editing, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and be an approachable, collaborating member of a team.
- Ability to organize, prioritize and complete multiple projects in a detail-oriented manner.
- Microsoft Suite and computer competency.
- Travels by plane, train, and vehicle, overnight and for varying lengths, to fulfill duties and responsibilities as needed.
How you apply:
If you’re interested in helping us facilitate the exchange of ideas among state leaders, you should upload the following elements with your application:
- Cover letter explaining your interest in the position and CSG East. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. (See this article from Indeed on how to write a simple cover letter.)
- Resume
CSG believes that pay equity and pay transparency to advance workplace fairness. Compensation will be equitable and based on experience and education. The salary range for this position, based in New York City, is $65,000 to $80,000. This salary range is subject to change based on work location and market conditions.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to characteristics including but not limited to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. CSG is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
Who we are:
The Council of State Governments (CSG) is a national not-for-profit, nonpartisan organization that serves all three branches of state government. CSG has four regions that focus on the unique needs of states and territories within their region.
This position is based in the CSG Eastern regional office, known as CSG East, located in New York City. CSG East facilitates the exchange of ideas among state policymakers, business leaders, and the academic community throughout its 18-member jurisdictions. CSG East fosters discussions and collaboration among state officials to address the policy priorities unique to the Northeast, conduct leadership training programs, and advocate on the federal level for programs and policies beneficial to the region. Learn more about careers at CSG including our benefit package.