Senior Policy Analyst

University of Pittsburgh   Pittsburgh, PA   Full-time     Analysis
Posted on May 2, 2024
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Senior Policy Analyst



The incumbent will manage four policy committees; responsibilities include ongoing coordination and communication with the committee chairs, organization of meetings, collaborative development of the committee agenda, identification of committee goals, development of project plan, and oversight of the implementation and evaluation of the goal/outcome. Committee outcomes typically include the development of an in-depth policy report or educational forum. Educational forums will require identification and communication with local and national experts, presenter coordination, event promotion/recruitment, and logistic guidance. Serve as the project manager for special initiatives spear-headed by the Director and/or Chair of the Institute. Individual will be responsible for developing a full understanding of policy issues and implications on a wide range of subjects. Individual will attend high level meetings with the Director and Chair, will serve as an active participant, and will accept responsibility for maintaining and disseminating meeting records, action steps and other pertinent information. Exploratory research on emerging issues. The incumbent will develop applied research strategies that frame issues within national, state, and local contexts, providing evidence-based reports for further deliberation by key stakeholders. This process requires a critical investigation of all sides of a topic, benchmarking and performing cross-state analyses, and gathering input from content experts and regional leaders, including bipartisan public and elected officials. Information may be analyzed for consideration by policy makers. Work closely with IOP staff, assisting with the administrative and programmatic goals and objectives of the department. Contributing to the strategic planning and future project development. Incumbent will be required to attend weekly staff meetings, policy committee meetings, educational forums, and annual retreat. Cultivate and maintain relationships with regional leaders. Responsibilities include attendance to regional meetings and conferences, and face to face engagement with elected officials and other key stakeholders for excellent customer service and ongoing engagement.

Master's degree with five years' experience in this field preferred.


Job Summary

Oversees all aspects of planning, design, and execution of multiple, small routine projects or a moderately complex project. Assists in developing timelines and ensures adherence to deadlines. Manages financial aspects of projects and other administrative duties. Handles external correspondence and drafts reports and other communications.


Essential Functions

This is a professional position responsible for providing in-depth policy research, policy analysis and report preparation on the wide range of complex social problems. The scope of work includes convening four policy committees, that consist of elected officials, content experts, and regional leaders. Responsibilities include the development of the committee agenda, development of synthesized reports that frame an issue with national, state, and local contexts, providing committee members and key stakeholders with synthesized evidence-based policy briefs for further deliberation. The incumbent will also be responsible for the development of related educational forums on a specific policy issue. Responsibilities include development of the seminar content in conjunction with the committee and chairs, identification and contact with local and national experts, and oversight of all content related to the program. Furthermore, the incumbent will serve as the project manager for high impact initiatives spearheaded by the Director and Chair of the Institute. A full understanding of policy issues and implications on a wide range of subjects as required for special initiatives. Incumbent will be required to attend high level meetings with the Director and Chair where they will be an active participant, and accept responsibility for maintaining meeting records, action steps, and other pertinent information. This work may include deep-dive exploratory research on emerging issues in the region. Within the context of the aforementioned activities, the incumbent will be expected to author original policy research briefs and other academic works for wide dissemination and publication. Lastly, as a key member of a small professional team, the incumbent will provide insight and assistance on the execution of daily operations and communication outreach efforts.


Physical Effort

Duties are primarily sedentary. Must be able to use a computer at a desk or similar workstation, and travel to on-campus meetings as needed.


The University of Pittsburgh is committed to championing all aspects of diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility within our community. This commitment is a fundamental value of the University and is crucial in helping us advance our mission, which includes attracting and retaining diverse workforces. We will continue to create and maintain an environment that allows individuals to discover, belong, contribute, and grow, while honoring the experiences, perspectives, and unique identities of all.


The University of Pittsburgh is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and values equality of opportunity, human dignity and diversity. EOE, including disability/vets.



Assignment Category: Full-time regular

Job Classification: Staff.Project Manager II

Job Family: Administrative Support

Job Sub Family: Program & Project Management

Campus: Pittsburgh

Minimum Education Level Required: Bachelor's Degree

Minimum Years of Experience Required: 2

Will this position accept substitution in lieu of education or experience: No

Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Work Arrangement: Monday - Friday, 8:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Hiring Range: TBD Based Upon Qualifications

Relocation_Offered: No

Visa Sponsorship Provided: No

Background Check: For position finalists, employment with the University will require successful completion of a background check

Child Protection Clearances: Not Applicable

Required Documents: Resume, Cover Letter, Writing Sample

Optional Documents: Not Applicable





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