State Policy Analyst

Position Summary

The State Policy Analyst’s primary function is to support AIHEC public policy system in multiple areas by conducting policy and program research, analyze policy, regulations, and administrative data sets, work directly with state and local partners to support policy implementation, and contribute to the design and preparation of technical assistance and any related issue briefs and tools. The ideal candidate will address disparities in public policy and public systems, highly motivated, business-driven and ready to collaborate with AIHEC’s cross-disciplinary policy and leadership team.

Essential Functions:

• Assisting in designing/developing a range of high-quality written materials, including policy reports and policy memos
• Facilitating both in-person and webinar discussions on related policy topics
• Drafting organizational comments and statement for the record responding to federal policy actions
• Conducting state and federal policy scans
• Conduct research and analysis on state policy issues related to economic opportunity, financial security, inequality, and disparities
• Working directly with state/local government agencies and community-based organizations to implement federal/state policy and/or initiatives to advance equity
• Drive policy advocacy campaigns to protect and strengthen AIHEC as an organization
• Collaborating with national partners on strategy to advance AIHEC’s policy priorities
• Tracking policy proposals and implementation in assigned content areas
• Helping to prepare and complete deliverables and reports for AIHEC
• Representing AIHEC externally by attending policy briefings and meetings
• Quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis
• Prepare and conduct presentations and briefings for AIHEC’s policymakers and leadership
• Assist when required with hiring and supervision of student interns, research fellows, and volunteers
• Additional duties to support the AIHEC mission and vision as required

Required Education, Experience and Attributes (minimum requirements):

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in public administration, public health, public policy, public relations, social work or any related fields
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, PowerPoint, Acrobat, and Excel
• Understanding of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) higher education issues and other Indigenous communities and Tribal nations.
• Strong analytical and research skills. Some familiarity with statistics and quantitative methods preferred
• Experience organizing complex projects involving a diverse group of partners and stakeholders.
• Familiarity with the AIHEC policy environment, including public agencies, interest groups, and the state Legislature.
• Strong computer experience, including word processing, spreadsheets, desktop publishing, website and email management, project management tools, and social media
• Exhibit confident verbal and written communication skills, with polished professional writing, and the ability to proofread and craft organization documents.  
• Ability to present policy, practice and research information to a variety of audiences, including federal, state and local government officials and policymakers
• Excellent attention to detail, organizational, time management, negotiating, and multitasking skills

Work Location
This position is based out of the Washington, DC region, approved for occasional telework, remote with routine in-person activities in Washington, DC.

Physical Requirements
Sedentary work. Repetitive motion. Substantial movements (motions) of the wrists, hands, and/or fingers. Close visual acuity is required to perform typical workday activities such as: preparing and analyzing data and figures; transcribing; viewing a computer monitor; extensive reading.

Diversity & Inclusion
We believe that different perspectives and backgrounds are what make a company flourish. All qualified applicants will receive equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, economic status, disability, age, or any other legally protected characteristics. We are proud to be an inclusive company with values grounded in equality and ethics, where we celebrate, support, and embrace diversity.

Total Rewards Package
At AIHEC, we demonstrate our commitment to rewarding individual and team achievement through a total rewards package. This package includes a competitive base salary, generous paid time off policy, the latest technology and tools to do your best work, merit-based or annual cost of living increases, bonus opportunities and a robust recognition program. Other benefits include a competitive range of gratuitous coverage in the most comprehensive insurance plans (including health, dental, life, and short-term and long-term disability), access to a retirement savings program such as a 401(k)/403(b) plan with 6% employer matching, an employee assistance program with mental wellness counseling benefits, and numerous other offerings to support a healthy work-life balance.

Important Notes:
You must be able to perform the essential duties and responsibilities with or without reasonable accommodation. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work. Final employment offers are contingent upon a Final Candidate’s successful completion of a Background Verification, and a determination by AIHEC that the information derived from the Background Verification does not disqualify the individual under FCRA (Fair Credit Reporting Agency).

Accessibility
Consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Commonwealth of Virginia where the agency is headquartered, it is the absolute pleasure of AIHEC to provide reasonable accommodation when requested by a qualified applicant or candidate with a disability, unless such accommodation would cause an undue hardship for AIHEC. The policy regarding requests for reasonable accommodation applies to all aspects of the hiring process. 

Application Information: Please send a current CV and a cover letter describing your interest in and qualifications for this position. Please send materials to careers@aihec.org with the subject line Attn: State Policy Analyst

Dept: Legislative Affairs
Classification: Non-exempt, Full-Time
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 25%
Type of Travel: Legislative summit in Washington, DC; student convening in MN, and frequent Capitol Hill visits in partnership with the Legislative Assistant and Vice President of Congressional Affairs