Senior Policy Analyst, Health

## Job Description: Senior Policy Analyst, Health (Full-Time, Hybrid Position, Based in NJ)

### About New Jersey Policy Perspective

New Jersey Policy Perspective (NJPP) is a nonpartisan think tank focused on state-level solutions to advance economic, racial, and social justice in New Jersey. Through independent, evidence-based research and strategic partnerships, NJPP produces research and engages partners to shape public policy solutions to New Jersey’s most pressing challenges. For over 25 years, NJPP has been at the forefront of elevating policies that reduce inequality, promote equity, and create shared prosperity for all New Jersey residents.

### Position Overview

NJPP seeks a talented and experienced Senior Policy Analyst to lead research and analysis on New Jersey’s health care systems and the social and economic factors that shape health outcomes in a variety of topic areas — from reproductive health to prescription drugs. The role requires strong technical knowledge of how health care systems function, as well as the ability to translate complex data and policies into accessible analysis that informs public debate and decision-making.

In addition to producing high-quality research, the analyst will represent NJPP in coalition and grassroots spaces, ensuring that community perspectives inform the organization’s policy work. This position offers the opportunity to directly influence conversations about how health care systems in New Jersey function and to advance evidence-based solutions that promote equity and better health outcomes for all. This position reports to the Research Director.

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## Core Duties and Responsibilities

### Research & Writing — 55%

– **Lead major research projects** — including designing methodologies, conducting advanced data analysis, and synthesizing findings into actionable policy recommendations.
– **Serve as lead author** on publications including reports, explainers, policy briefs, blog posts, op-eds, fact sheets, and more.
– **Identify emerging health policy issues** affecting state residents, with particular focus on benefiting low-to-middle-income residents, communities of color, and other historically excluded groups.

### Policy & Public Engagement — 15%

– **Monitor and shape policy developments** including legislation, budgets, and administrative actions.
– **Serve as a subject-matter expert** in hearings, press events, coalition meetings, grassroots spaces, and media interviews.
– **Cultivate relationships** with directly impacted communities, coalition partners, and policymakers.

### Collaboration & Strategy — 20%

– **Partner with communications staff** on messaging, visuals, and rollout strategies.
– **Provide peer review** and editorial support across NJPP publications.
– **Contribute to strategy discussions** and NJPP’s research agenda.
– **Support grant reporting** and participate in foundation meetings as needed.

### Leadership & Mentorship — 10%

– **Mentor analysts and interns** on research, writing, and communications.
– **Travel within New Jersey** for hearings, meetings, and events.
– **Adapt to evolving organizational needs** as required.

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## Required Skills and Experience

### Research & Analysis

– **Expertise in health policy research** with strong quantitative and qualitative skills.
– **Ability to analyze complex data** and translate findings into actionable insights.
– **Experience designing research projects** with rigor and creativity.
– **Proficiency with Excel** and other data analysis tools.

### Communication

– **Excellent writing and speaking skills** for non-technical audiences.
– **Ability to convey complex issues** in plain language to policymakers, partners, media, and the public.
– **Strong editorial judgment** and commitment to accuracy.

### Collaboration & Leadership

– **Commitment to racial, economic, and social justice** through an intersectional lens.
– **Political awareness** and understanding of New Jersey’s policy landscape.
– **Relationship-building skills** with communities, coalitions, policymakers, and funders.
– **Experience mentoring colleagues** and working in teams.

### Strategic & Organizational Skills

– **Strong project management** with ability to balance multiple priorities.
– **Creative problem-solving** and anticipation of opportunities or challenges.
– **Flexibility to adapt** as organizational needs evolve.

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## Desired Skills & Experience

– **Advanced degree** (e.g., MPP, MPH, economics) or equivalent experience.
– **Subject-matter expertise** in Medicaid, insurance markets, prescription drugs, or reproductive health.
– **Familiarity with NJ budget/legislative processes**.
– **Experience with statistical software** such as R, Stata, or Python.
– **Record of published research** in recognized outlets.
– **Experience presenting to funders** or philanthropic audiences.

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## Compensation

Salary range: **$85,000–$90,000**, based on experience.
Benefits include health care, retirement, generous vacation leave, sick leave, and holiday schedules.

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## How to Apply

Application link:
[https://newjerseypolicyperspective.applytojob.com/apply/Y8lcNk4OuI/Senior-PolicyAnalyst-Health]

Your cover letter is a critical part of the application. Please highlight your relevant experience and skills as outlined in the job description.

Include:

– **Relevant research or writing samples** demonstrating your ability to analyze complex issues.
– **A list of 3 professional references** who can speak to your experience and leadership.

For accommodations or issues with the application, email: **[email protected]**

**Deadline:** Position open until filled.

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## Hybrid Work Expectation

This is a hybrid role based in New Jersey. Staff are expected to attend in-person meetings in Trenton, Newark, and across the state as needed, with flexibility for remote work.

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## Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at NJPP

At NJPP, advancing racial, economic, and social justice is central to our mission — and that begins within our organization. We are committed to building a workplace that reflects New Jersey’s diversity and fosters an inclusive, equitable culture where all staff feel respected, valued, and supported.

We believe that diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences strengthens our research, advocacy, and partnerships. We also recognize that dismantling systemic inequities requires intentional action — including within our hiring, workplace practices, and organizational culture.

NJPP is an equal opportunity employer. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, women, immigrants, LGBTQIA+ individuals, people with disabilities, people from low-income and working-class backgrounds, and others whose voices have been historically excluded from policy debates.

NJPP provides equal employment opportunities regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, arrest or court record, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are also committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you require accommodations during the application or interview process, please email **[email protected]**.