Governmental Operations Research Analyst - House Democratic Leader

Description of Work

The Office of the House Democratic Leader is seeking a highly qualified professional to work as a Research Analyst for the House Minority staff of the Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations (“GovOps”). House Minority GovOps staff conduct evaluative studies of the programs, policies, practices, and procedures of the various departments, agencies, and institutions of State government. Oversight is crucial in making sure laws are administered in an effective, efficient, and economical manner. Therefore, a fundamental objective of the House Minority GovOps team will be to assist legislators, committees, and legislative staff in carrying out this vital legislative function through the evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of State programs and policies.

The position of Governmental Operations Research Analyst is appointed by the House Democratic Leader and reports directly to the House Minority Director for Oversight & Policy and is under his direction. An ideal candidate possesses strong quantitative skills, the ability to handle multiple assignments with a high degree of accuracy, and the capability of meeting tight deadlines. Excellent writing and communication skills are essential.

This position is a permanent, full-time position. Days of work are typically Monday through Friday, 9:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M. However, when the legislature is in session, evening work may be necessary. This position is under the direct supervision of the Director and has no direct supervisory responsibilities, unless requested by the Director to assist in the supervision of an intern.

Example of Duties (The Research Analyst will be given a wide range of tasks, projects, and duties, including, but not limited to, the following):

• Plan and conduct complex and varied evaluations of State government programs using a wide range of research methods.
• Utilize quantitative and qualitative analytical skills to study performance impact and outcomes of State programs, including performance measurement, financing, and operational procedures, or trend analyses.
• Research statewide public policy issues and develop options to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of State programs and policies based on available data and best practices.
• Prepare and present final reports, or parts of reports, to legislators, including key findings and recommendations.
• Monitor and review current and proposed legislation or administrative rulemaking to assess potential impacts on State programs and policies.
• Stay up-to-date on developments in statewide public policy issues, economic trends, and research methods.
• Provide accurate and reliable data and analysis to legislators and colleagues.
• Verify the accuracy of analysis performed by other evaluators.
• Draft correspondence to legislators, legislative staff, and agency liaisons.
• Coordinate with other legislators and staff on policy matters, including preparing briefing materials for use by staff or legislators.
• Onboard, train, and manage interns.
• Adhere to strict confidentiality requirements.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities / Competencies

• Strong analytical skills, with proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear, concise, and effective manner.
• Strong computer skills and proficiency with all Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Knowledge of State legislative processes and statewide public policy issues.
• Ability to perform systematic public policy evaluation and financial/economic analysis.
• Ability to work cooperatively, respectfully, and tactfully with legislators, legislative staff, and colleagues on a daily basis.
• Ability to maintain composure and work cooperatively under pressure with legislators and legislative staff on a daily basis.
• Ability to work independently, organize and analyze materials, and prioritize tasks.
• Ability to work objectively and impartially both with respect to members of both political parties and with respect to policy issues.
• Ability to maintain strict legislative confidentiality.
• Willingness and ability to work extended schedules as needed to meet deadlines.

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements

• Education & Experience: Candidates are expected to have at minimum:
  • An undergraduate degree in Political Science, Economics, Public Policy, or other related field of study, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
  • Work experience (internships, client projects, etc.) accumulated while in an academic setting can be applied to meet the experience requirements.
• Public Policy Background: Candidates are expected to have a working knowledge of government functions and experience performing programmatic analyses.
• Computer Skills: Candidates will be expected to demonstrate Microsoft Excel and Word proficiency in any potential in-person interview.

Preference will be given to those with the following:

• Outstanding record of academic achievement.
• Strong record of leadership in an academic, professional, and/or extracurricular setting.

Supplemental and Contact Information

***NC General Assembly positions are NOT subject to the State Human Resources Act (G.S. 126).***

Applicant Instructions:

To apply for this position, submit the North Carolina General Assembly application packet through the NC General Assembly website: https://careers.ncleg.gov/

To be considered for this posting, applicants must submit the following materials in the application packet:

• A fully completed North Carolina General Assembly Application.
• A detailed cover letter (maximum length – 1 page), in which the applicant must address:
  • Their qualifications, strengths, and objectives as a candidate.
  • Why the applicant is interested in joining the Gov Ops team.
• A writing sample (minimum length – 2000 words) that demonstrates your analytical and communication skills.
• A current résumé (maximum length – 2 pages).
• Unofficial copy of transcripts showing postsecondary degree(s) completed.

Please Note the Following:

• Application must be completed in its entirety, including detailed education and work history.
• Résumés are not accepted in lieu of the NC General Assembly Application. Incomplete packets will not be considered.

All applicant materials will be carefully reviewed for content and completeness.

To be considered for this position, all applicants must submit the General Assembly application packet by 5:00 P.M. on Thursday, August 1, 2024.

Agency Contact Information:
For additional information or questions about this vacancy announcement, please contact:

Donald Haley, Director

House Minority GovOps Office

(919) 301-1461

***Due to the high volume of applications received, we are unable to provide information regarding the status of your application.***