Policy Analyst

Rhode Island House Republican policy analysts work to support caucus members in influencing political and social events, as well as cultivate resources and data to raise public awareness on different issues. This work involves conducting research, analyzing current policies, assisting in draft legislation, evaluating the effects of proposed legislation, and reporting on findings.

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Policy analysts typically work long and irregular hours, especially during the Rhode Island General Assembly legislative sessions, which typically run January thru the end of June each year. The work performed is a mix of office-based work and field work. This job is well-suited to people who are passionate about progress and implementing change, who are strong communicators, and who have an analytical approach to interpreting and reporting on data. This position will also encompass constituent interactions and other duties performed by members of the House Republican Office team. The Rhode Island House Republican Policy Analyst reports to the Chief of Staff. The policy analyst is responsible for examining the efficacy of existing policies in the State of Rhode Island, and conducting the groundwork for new programs and legislation to meet Rhode Island House Republican Caucus objectives and goals. Policy analysts work to influence political and social events, as well as raise public awareness on different issues. This involves conducting research, analyzing current policies, evaluating the effects of proposed legislation, and reporting on findings. Policy analysts typically work long and irregular hours, with a mix of office-based work and field work. Duties of the position include: Detailed investigations into the pros and cons, fiscal impacts, implementation costs, model bills of diverse policy initiatives under consideration by the caucus leadership and membership. Reviews and amends policy drafts and proposes suggestions to improve the effects of existing policies. Works with Rhode Island House Republican Legal Counsel to examine the state budget and other proposed legislation under consideration by the caucus. Monitors House Floor Sessions and Committee Hearings, as necessary. Prepares committee briefs for legislators. Requires strong oral and written communications skills, and has an analytical approach to interpreting and reporting on data. Relationship-building on behalf of the caucus requires the Policy Analyst to develop and maintain informational contacts, which can include constituent groups, stakeholders, government agency contacts and JCLS colleagues. Work with House Republican Office Interns. Filling in other staff functions/roles as necessary, to maintain office operations. Skills and Knowledge Demonstrated understanding of how governments and legislative processes operate, especially within the Rhode Island House of Representatives. Knowledge of effective intake and referral practices and knowledge of community and government resources to assist in project research. Excellent skills in technology, office procedures, communication, decision-making, time management and conflict resolution. Also expertise in research, analyzing and ability to monitor legislative activity. Abilities and Characteristics Flexibility is key, as well as the ability to work well independently. Must demonstrate attention to detail and thorough investigatory skills. Required qualities for policy analysts are confidentiality, cooperation, and the ability to work well with diverse groups under stressful conditions. The job of Policy Analyst mandates interactions with varying groups of people with courtesy; must maintain professional behavior.

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Candidate Qualifications: Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Economics, or other related field. Demonstrated experience in the following job performance specifications: Analytical skills Research skills General knowledge of government and community organizations Attention to detail Communications skills: report writing and oral presentations Proficient in technology platforms, especially Microsoft Access and Excel Interpersonal skills: ability to work with people who represent diverse backgrounds Team player Preferred Qualifications Include: Experience in policy and budget analysis, and investigations