Policy Analyst

The mission of The Council of State Governments' Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) is to foster and encourage intergovernmental cooperation among its 15 member states. In large measure, this is achieved through the ongoing work of the Conference's six standing committees and supporting groups. Through member outreach in state capitols, policy research, international member delegations, staff exchange programs, meetings and fly-ins, staff support state policymakers in their work to build a stronger region. To learn more about the Southern office visit us at www.csgsouth.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.

JOB SUMMARY

The Policy Analyst is responsible through self-direction and in concert with the Director of Public Policy and Research, and to varying and project-specific degrees, for providing research support and policy analysis to the assigned standing committee(s), state officials, and other internal and external groups associated with the Southern Office. The Policy Analyst will support the various activities, programs, and services related to the organization's identified members and provide optimal member support. The Policy Analyst exercises semi-independent judgment while maintaining a collaborative relationship with the Director of Public Policy and Research, the Southern Office Regional Director, other staff, and internal and external parties.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Exhibits appropriate interpersonal skills and relationships with internal and external partners and maintains open and frequent communication with legislative members.
• Demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a non-partisan perspective.
• Responsible for tracking state sessions and coordinating travel to member state Capitols to establish and maintain professional relationships, network, and assist with promoting CSG South programs and services.
• Leads one standing committee(s) of the CSG Southern Office as assigned and provides deliverables, such as written public policy analysis and issue briefs supporting the designated standing committee(s) and the organization.
• Tracks and monitors relevant policy and state-level news for three to four states within the CSG South region, as assigned.
• Coordinates with the Policy and Research Director on planning, coordinating, and executing policy masterclass or domestic delegation fly-ins for state elected officials and staff at least one (1) in-person event per year as budget allows, along with identifying opportunities for virtual or prerecorded policy programs when applicable.
• Provides targeted deliverables relative to public policy as determined and in collaboration with the Director of Policy, including at least two (2) policy print publications and six (6) policy online publications.
• Responds to information inquiries initiated by members of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches.
• Provides support concerning the coordination and execution of the Southern Legislative Conference Annual Meeting and other events; identifies policy topics and presenters and coordinates each session for each assigned committee; prepares written summaries of each committee session; briefs committee officers on matters on each session for each committee; and organizes and implements a technical tour.
• Presents research and organizational information before state legislative committees and other internal and external partners.
• Assists with database management and tracking operational protocols for the office.
• Maintains a network of state government and external contacts and resources.
• Prepares and interprets surveys and other instruments used to gather information.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• 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 civically, be nonpartisan in performing CSG duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent proof-reading skills
• Ability to work independently and be an approachable, collaborating member of a team
• Ability to work under time constraints and meet deadlines
• Excellent organizational skills
• Microsoft Suite, Quorum, and computer competency
• Travels by plane and vehicle, overnight and for varying lengths to fulfill duties and responsibilities as needed

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study or an equivalent combination of education and experience required
• Minimum of three years employment experience in research and public policy arena (academic research cannot be substituted for employment experience)

COMPENSATION

CSG believes that pay equity and pay transparency advance workplace fairness. Compensation will be equitable and based on experience. The salary range for this position, based in Decatur, GA, is $55,000 to $65,000. This salary range is subject to change based on work location and market conditions.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Interested candidates must complete the online application and include their resume and cover letter.

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.