Policy Analyst

The Council of State Governments is the nation's only nonpartisan association of state officials serving all three branches of government in all 50 states and the U.S. territories. CSG is a region-based, national organization that promotes excellence in state government. CSG fosters the interstate exchange of insights and ideas to help state officials shape public policy, and it offers unparalleled regional, national and international opportunities to network, develop leaders, collaborate and create problem-solving partnerships.

CSG Midwest focuses on meeting the needs of state policymakers and leaders in the 11 Midwestern states Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. In addition, four Canadian provinces: Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan are members or affiliate members of CSG Midwest's Midwestern Legislative Conference. 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 for providing staff support to designated constituent groups, including one or more committees of the Midwestern Legislative Conference (MLC) and/or other select entities supported by the CSG Midwestern Office. The Policy Analyst writes and edits issues briefs, articles and other documents and correspondence, conducts research, coordinates webinars, contributes to various group projects and team activities as directed, and represents the Midwestern region and Midwestern CSG constituents in external forums as appropriate. The Policy Analyst also contributes to Midwestern Office publications, online resources, and social media efforts as directed.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provides lead staff support to one or more committees of the Midwestern Legislative Conference (including initially the Economic Development and Infrastructure Committee). Specific duties include working with committee officers and members to identify, prioritize and pursue all committee objectives, including the development and production of committee workplans, meeting agendas, events and other deliverables.
• Assists in providing a wide range of secretariat services to other committees and networks of Midwestern state officials supported by the CSG Midwestern Office as assigned. Specific duties include providing staff support (project and meeting planning, the preparation of reports and other deliverables, research, communications, etc.) to various committees, task forces and/or other entities as directed.
• Monitors relevant policy developments at the state, federal and international levels (related to the interests and objectives of the various constituent groups supported by the Policy Analyst).
• Conducts research; analyzes policy issues, writes/edits position papers, articles, reports and other documents and correspondence.
• Contributes to Midwestern Office publications, web-based resources and social media efforts as directed.
• Serves as principal staff liaison to two or more Midwestern states.
• Plans and facilitates project-specific webinars as appropriate.
• Represents Midwestern region and CSG Midwest constituents in external forums (e.g., Midwestern state legislatures, other association meetings, stakeholder events, etc.) as appropriate.
• Serves as a resource to constituent group members and other state officials on wide range of policy issues.
• Serves as member of other in-house teams as assigned.
• Participates in/contributes to various CSG-wide activities.
• Serves as an ambassador of the CSG mission to champion excellence in state governments to advance the common good.
• Other substantive and administrative tasks as assigned.

SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Steadfast commitment to providing members with timely, effective customer service.
• Working knowledge of public policy and the role of states within the federal system.
• Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be non-partisan in performing CSG duties, and be a responsible steward of public funds.
• Strong organizational, analytical, administrative, communication (both oral and written) and interpersonal skills.
• Reliable self-starter; effective time and project manager.
• Positive team player with a professional work ethic.
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong interpersonal skills including self awareness, sensitivity and valuing others.
• Flexibility and willingness to take on new tasks as necessary to meet evolving needs and objectives of organization and its members.
• Strong office technology skills and familiarity with social media. Experience with MS Office, WordPress, Constant Contact, Google Sites, InDesign, MailChimp, and other applications a plus.
• Willingness to travel as needed, including several trips per year.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in public policy, political science or related field (additional relevant experience may be substituted for education requirement).
• Two years' experience in state government, association management or related field.
• Research, writing and policy analysis experience preferred.
• Background and experience in economic development and/or state fiscal policy preferred.

COMPENSATION

The salary range for this position, based in the Chicago, IL area is $62,000 to $72,000. This salary range is subject to change based on work location and market conditions.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

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

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Equal Employment Opportunity employer (veterans/individuals with disabilities).

Salary : $62,000 - $72,000