Senior Policy Analyst

CENTER/OFFICE     POLICY AND RESEARCH

HIRING RANGE:     Commensurate with experience

General Description

Responsible for policy analysis and development on key issues of importance to local governments, including public safety, homeland security and emergency preparedness.  Reports to Manager, Policy Analysis and Development.

Examples of Work

Serves as lead Policy and Research staff on one or more key policy issues and provides support on other policy issues as needed.

Staffs committees of elected officials that formulate policy statements on federal issues and identify solutions to local challenges.

Designs and conducts program and policy research and analysis in order to develop in-depth expertise on issue areas.

Develops briefing papers, Nation’s Cities Weekly articles, webpages, and other communications vehicles as appropriate, to keep committees, general membership, and other stakeholders informed regarding policy matters.

Plans, coordinates, and facilitates committee meetings including agenda development, speaker panels, and logistical arrangements.

Coordinates with NLC federal relations staff on policy and advocacy issues.

Coordinates cross-cutting issues among the policy committees and across the organization.

Collaborates with outside organizations working on similar issues.

Assists in the leadership/committee appointment process by providing background information on potential candidates and coordinating related materials.

Travel required.

Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree (advanced degree preferred) in public administration, public policy, urban affairs, or related field; minimum five years progressively responsible experience in policy analysis and development in local government, public interest group, or related organization, or a combination of education and experience which provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities. 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Extensive knowledge of the workings of all levels of government, including the local, state and federal political systems and legislative processes; strong research skills with the ability to analyze and synthesize complex legislation, regulations and policies; ability to evaluate political and intergovernmental context of policy issues; ability to manage a committee and policy development process; ability to work both independently and collaboratively; excellent oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills; ability to interact effectively with local elected officials, federal agency and congressional officials and staff, and all levels of NLC staff.