Researcher & Policy Analyst

Researcher & Policy Analyst Position at ALIGN

ALIGN is a longstanding alliance of labor and community organizations united for a just and sustainable New York. We are seeking a talented, motivated, and dedicated individual to join our team as Researcher & Policy Analyst. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to an ambitious organization at the forefront of innovative policy, organizing, and communications efforts in New York. ALIGN’s research and analysis are crucial to the success of our campaigns for policies protecting worker health and safety, reducing pollution, and creating new green jobs, including winning the NY HERO Act, Local Law 97, and Commercial Waste Zones.

Position Description & Responsibilities:

Campaign Research and Policy Development:

• Develop research plans and timelines.
• Collaborate with coalition partners for qualitative and quantitative research.
• Work on literature reviews, surveys, and data analysis.
• Engage with ALIGN team and stakeholders for progressive policies and effective implementation.
• Contribute to campaigns for Green, Healthy Schools in NYC and pro-worker provisions in statewide climate justice policies.

Policy Papers and Research Briefs:

• Develop and draft reports, white papers, and materials on economic and environmental justice issues.
• Make materials accessible to key audiences.
• Aggregate existing research and draft reports in support of campaign goals.
• Partner with communications staff for regular dissemination of research findings and policy positions.

Public Advocacy:

• Facilitate discussions on policy topics with government agencies and organizations.
• Represent ALIGN externally at policy briefings and meetings.
• Use data analysis and research for campaigns and debates on economic, environmental, and equity issues.
• Draft and deliver public testimony, speak at panels, and serve on policy advisory councils and working groups.

Issue Tracking and Analysis:

• Follow and analyze labor, economic, and environmental statistics.
• Track relevant issues like employment, budgets, sustainability, and economic development.
• Conduct state and federal policy scans.

Organizational Health:

• Support practices for a caring, collaborative, and effective staff team.
• Support fundraising and reporting for organizational financial sustainability.

Qualifications:

Required:

• Minimum 4 years of research and policy experience.
• Commitment to social, economic, climate, and racial justice and the labor movement.
• Understanding of ALIGN’s mission and model for building power.
• Strong meeting facilitation and task delegation skills.
• Ability to independently manage projects and work as part of a team.
• Excellent organizational, writing, and communication skills.
• Ability to multi-task and work in a deadline-driven environment.

Preferred:

• Experience working within an organized labor union and/or climate justice organization.
• Familiarity with NYC and New York State policies, movements, and governmental leaders.
• Team leadership and experience working with coalitions.
• Bilingual Spanish/English a plus.

Terms of Employment:

• Full-time position with 100% paid healthcare options.
• Generous retirement, vacation, and other benefits.
• Covered by a collective bargaining agreement.
• Starting pay: $75,000–$85,000 annually, dependent on experience.
• Hybrid position with offices located in lower Manhattan, New York City.

Application Process:

Candidates are encouraged to submit applications early. The position is available immediately and is open until filled. Email cover letter, resume, and where you saw this job posting to [email protected]. Please put “Researcher & Policy Analyst” in the subject line of the email. No phone calls, please.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

ALIGN is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The organization encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status, and record of arrest or conviction.

COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement:

ALIGN takes the health of our employees, families, and communities very seriously. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required as a condition of employment.