Policy Analyst

Policy Analyst Position

The County Board Department within Dane County has a full-time (1.0 FTE) vacancy for a Policy Analyst position in Madison, WI. The Policy Analyst works with a team to support the legislative duties of the Dane County Board. This work includes drafting legislation (resolutions) and conducting in-depth policy research and analysis on behalf of the Board. The Eligibility List created may be used to fill future vacancies over the next six (6) months. All are encouraged to apply.

Commitment to equity and inclusion : As an employer, we strive to provide a work environment where diversity and differing opinions are valued, creativity is encouraged, continuous learning and improvement are fostered, teamwork and open / honest communication are encouraged, and meeting customer needs through quality service is a shared goal. All employees must be able to demonstrate multicultural competence the awareness, knowledge, and skills needed to work with others who are culturally different from self in meaningful, relevant, and productive ways. Applicants from traditionally underrepresented populations including women, racial and ethnic minorities, and persons with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.

Definition : The Policy Analyst position, reporting to the Manager of Policy, Outreach, and Communications, is responsible for conducting in-depth research and analysis, developing policy recommendations, and drafting legislation to support the Board in fulfilling its policy-making duties. This role requires a strong understanding of the County Board's responsibilities and current issues, demands a high level of confidentiality, and advanced research, writing and editing skills.

Examples of duties : Provide comprehensive policy and budget research and analysis for the County Board Office on a wide range of topics. Responsible for research and drafting of proposed legislation and amendments on a wide range of policy topics on behalf of the Dane County Board. Work with the Manager of Policy, Outreach and Communications on program evaluation topics for the annual Program Evaluation project(s), Coordinate policy intern projects. Provide staff support to County Board, the Executive Committee, other standing committees, and subcommittees as needed.

Education, training and experience : Any combination of education, training and experience equivalent to a Bachelor's degree in political science, public administration, law or a related area. Must possess at least one (1) year of experience in policy work or legislative drafting.

Special requirements : Must have a valid driver's license, or access to reliable personal transportation, or equivalent. Availability to work as required during some evening meetings and special events as needed.

Background check statement : Some positions may require a criminal background check which can include fingerprinting due to the nature of the job's responsibilities. Wisconsin's Fair Employment Law, s. 111.31 111.395, Wis. Stats., prohibits discrimination because of an arrest or conviction record. However, Dane County may disqualify an applicant if the position's responsibilities are substantially related to the applicant's criminal history (e.g., the nature of the crime and its relationship to the position, whether hiring, transferring or promoting an applicant would pose an unreasonable risk to the business, its employees, customers and vendors, etc.) Management reserves the right to make employment contingent upon successful completion of the background check.

For bilingual positions : Provide services in both English and the required foreign language (e.g., Spanish, Arabic, Hmong, etc.). Applicants being considered for bilingual positions will be tested during the recruitment process prior to employment. This will primarily consist of passing an oral language proficiency assessment from English to foreign language and foreign language to English, but may require additional language testing, such as written translation, if it is an essential function of the job.

Physical and environmental work requirements : This position functions in an environment of sensitivity and political issues. Professional office work environment. Work involves walking, sitting, standing, bending, stooping, twisting, turning, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, grasping, and reaching within normal ranges. Prolonged computer and phone use. Manual dexterity using fine and gross motor skills. Ability to speak and be heard by others. Ability to see and hear within normal ranges with or without corrective devices.

Knowledge of local government operations and the legislative process. Experience in legislative drafting and policy research and analysis. Strong writing skills and editing experience. Strong organizational and time management skills, ability to meet deadlines, attention to detail and ability to achieve goals and objectives in a timely manner to advance the mission of the Dane County Board. Basic computer skills, including efficiency using Microsoft Office Suite (e.g., Word, Excel, and Power point) and other office software. Ability to effectively establish and maintain good working relationships with staff, public officials, and the general public.