Policy Analyst (Children and Families)

## TITLE: Policy Analyst (Children and Families)

**ORGANIZATION:** National Governors Association
**LOCATION:** Washington, DC (onsite)
**DURATION:** Full Time
**POSITION STATUS:** Exempt
**COMPENSATION:** A competitive compensation package will be made to the qualified candidate
**REPORTS TO:** Program Director (Children and Families)

—

## ORGANIZATION BACKGROUND

Founded in 1908, the National Governors Association is the bipartisan organization of governors from the 55 states, territories and commonwealths. NGA’s mission is to share best practices, address issues of national and state interest, and drive innovative solutions that improve state government and support the principles of federalism.

NGA’s Center for Best Practices is the policy and research arm that helps governors develop and implement solutions to public policy challenges. NGA’s State-Federal Affairs group assists in ensuring the voice of governors are heard in Congress and the Executive Branch, and NGA’s Communications team collaborates with governors’ offices to amplify bipartisan messaging and strategy.

Throughout the year, NGA convenes governors and senior advisors for meaningful discourse, problem‑solving, and thought leadership.

—

## KEY RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE POLICY ANALYST (CHILDREN AND FAMILIES)

NGA’s Center for Best Practices policy analyst’s primary responsibilities include supporting governors on matters related to a variety of human services programs and benefits, including:

– Programs focused on increasing economic mobility (e.g., Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, Medicaid)
– Strengthening families
– Supporting early childhood education and care
– Protecting children
– Improving youth mental health
– Strengthening the workforce supporting these programs
– Improving systems used to administer these programs

Additional responsibilities include:

– **Organize and facilitate learning events** — virtual, in‑person, and hybrid workshops, seminars, meetings, and presentations.
– **Facilitate panel discussions**, state strategy sessions, and events for governors, senior state policy staff, and key stakeholders.
– **Provide technical assistance** across multiple program and policy issues.
– **Deliver best‑practice information** and consultative support to governors and senior advisors.
– **Develop written materials** including blog posts, white papers, issue briefs, presentations, and memos.
– **Build and maintain relationships** with high‑level policymakers and stakeholders.
– **Demonstrate commitment to NGA’s mission** and goals.
– **Perform other duties** as assigned by supervisor, President, or Managing Director, Center for Best Practices.

—

## QUALIFICATIONS

Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree, preferably in public policy or a related field, and one to three years of experience working in children and families policy areas, including familiarity with issues listed under Key Responsibilities.

Knowledge and expertise may include helping governors, their staff, and executive branch appointees design and implement evidence‑based policies focused on achieving specific outcomes. Experience working with governors, federal or state agencies, or nonprofit organizations is preferred. Candidates with commensurate lived experience will also be considered.

The ideal candidate will be able to:

– **Demonstrate foundational policy knowledge** in federal and state issue areas.
– **Support multiple technical assistance projects**.
– **Manage competing deadlines** and responsibilities.
– **Produce strong written communication** and synthesize complex issues into actionable recommendations.
– **Work independently** and problem‑solve across multiple issues.
– **Support and organize events** with the Events team.
– **Engage with high‑level policymakers** and respond effectively to their needs.
– **Demonstrate strong customer‑service orientation** and interpersonal skills.
– **Apply strong analytical skills** and interpret research for policymakers.
– **Communicate effectively verbally** with policy‑making audiences.
– **Be flexible and adaptable** across programs and policy issues.
– **Use MS Office suite** proficiently.
– **Travel as necessary**.

—

## HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should apply online through NGA’s career site. NGA uses Clear Company, and all information is kept strictly confidential. An application is considered complete when all required fields are submitted.

Please include:

– **Your resume** highlighting education, experience, and transferable skills
– **A portfolio of your best work** (attach via Clear Company)

—

## COMPENSATION

**Salary Range:** $70,000 – $85,000 annually.
This range represents a good‑faith estimate of the lowest to highest salary for the position. Final salary will be based on qualifications and experience.

—

## PHYSICAL AND SENSORY DEMANDS

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. NGA is committed to providing a productive and safe environment. Background and reference checks are conducted for all final applicants.

—

## WORKING AT THE NATIONAL GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION

NGA staff proudly serve the nation’s governors daily. NGA offers a comprehensive, competitive benefits package—including healthcare and more—designed to support employee needs.

NGA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to any protected characteristic under applicable law. Individuals of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.