Policy Research Associate

Position Description

POLICY RESEARCH ASSOCIATE

(2 Year Grant-Funded Position)

Chicago Jobs Council (CJC) is a workforce development intermediary that keeps jobseekers at the center of all we do. CJC advocates for jobseekers, by researching current pressing matters for the field, develop recommendations and share them broadly to create systemic change. CJC builds capacity for the workforce development field, by developing curriculum that’s offered through trainings, cohort learning and leadership academies based on our research of best practices. CJC influences City, State and Federal Policies related to increasing funding for our public workforce system, creating equitable pathways and eliminating barriers to employment. Our Mission: Together with community and institutional leaders, Chicago Jobs Council is re-imagining our workforce system so all people can thrive through employment. Our Vision is to create an anti-racist workforce development system and employment equity so that everyone can realize their unique pathway out of poverty.

Position Summary: As a valued member of the Policy Team, the Policy Research Associate will play a critical role in monitoring the successful implementation of the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA) workforce related programs. This complex legislation encompasses numerous policy initiatives to combat climate change, foster renewable energy, and promote economic justice. The Policy Research Associate will manage/coordinate a CJC led stakeholder table of selected CEJA grantees and Workforce Development Partners to identify challenges, and recommend solutions, to the state agencies responsible for implementation and ultimately shaping our state's clean energy workforce development opportunities.

Competitive Compensation: $46,980, Full-time, Exempt
Excellent Benefits: Medical, Dental & Vision

Location: Hybrid Work Environment - 29 E Madison, Suite 1700C, Chicago, IL

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and coordinate: Managing a stakeholders table of selected CEJA grantees to share information and best practices during the implementation of grants.
• Monitoring: Track the ongoing implementation of CEJA as DCEO releases notifications and awards. Maintain a current update of all CEJA-related workforce development work.
• Research and Analysis: Following an initial implementation report and analysis, conduct rigorous research where needed to evaluate the ongoing implementation of CEJA, benchmark against comparable legislation in other states, and assess emerging industry trends. This includes analyzing the effectiveness of various CEJA provisions, identifying potential barriers to implementation, and assessing the impact on workforce development initiatives.
• Policy Recommendations: Develop well-informed policy recommendations based on research findings to address challenges, improve implementation, and maximize CEJA's positive impact. This may involve proposing modifications to existing regulations, advocating for additional funding or resources, or suggesting new policy initiatives.
• Reporting and Stakeholder Engagement: Where needed, prepare comprehensive briefing reports summarizing findings, including clear and actionable recommendations. Participate in presentations, workshops, and other stakeholder engagement activities to disseminate information, foster collaboration, and ensure community partners are well-informed.

Qualifications:

• Education and Experience: A graduate degree in a relevant field (e.g., public policy, environmental justice, economics) or demonstrated work experience in policy research, analysis, and report writing.
• Research Skills: Strong research skills, including the ability to gather and synthesize information from diverse sources, conduct quantitative and qualitative analysis, and evaluate complex policy issues.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
• Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Ability to think critically, analyze complex problems, and develop creative solutions.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team, contributing to a positive and productive work environment.
• Project Management: Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to handle multiple priorities and meet deadlines.

Additional Skills (Preferred):

• Familiarity with energy policy and climate change issues.
• Experience with legislative analysis and policy advocacy.
• Proficiency with data analysis.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision

• 401(K)
• Paid Holidays
• Flexible Paid Time Off

Application Process:

To apply to this position, please submit a resume and cover letter via https://cjc.bamboohr.com/careers/61

CHICAGO JOBS COUNCIL (CJC) IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER. CJC is committed to building an inclusive staff and strongly encourages applications from individuals of color, people with disabilities, individuals with diverse backgrounds, and those whose life experience is underrepresented in employment programs and policies.

CJC recognizes that systemic, institutional, and individual racism creates disparities in the way people of color fare in the labor market. We are continuously working to review and update our practices, policies, and procedures using a racial equity lens to achieve more equitable outcomes for all.

Illinois is an at-will employment state