Policy Analyst

Urban Pathways is an organization dedicated to supporting New York City’s vulnerable residents. The Policy Analyst will manage advocacy campaign planning and activities, conduct research to advance legislative and budget priorities, and represent the organization in various external meetings and coalitions.

Responsibilities

• Assists the Director of Policy to manage the organization’s participation in campaigns, including acting as lead organizational representative on assigned campaigns
• Creates action plans for advocacy campaigns that the organization is leading and manages campaign activities
• Facilitates participation in campaigns by Consumer Advocates
• Schedules meetings and educational site visits with elected officials, and coordinates and prepares appropriate participation by Urban Pathways staff and consumers
• Acts as organizational representative in external meetings with coalitions, community groups, elected officials, and government partners
• Conducts research and gathers data on relevant topics, including internal information gathering
• Drafts white papers and policy memos to further advocacy campaigns and to detail organizational legislative and budget priorities
• Coordinates policy communication strategies with Urban Pathways Marketing and Public Relations Manager and other Communications staff
• Writes testimony for City Council and State Legislature hearings and presents testimony, as needed
• Facilitates frontline staff participation in advocacy, including helping staff to draft testimony and remarks, and leading committee meetings and educational workshops on advocacy
• Assists with coordinating and facilitating Consumer Advocacy Program
• Maintains and submits all necessary documentation, reports, and data accurately in a timely manner and as required by Urban Pathways
• Develops and maintains ongoing relationships with elected officials, consumer advocates, community groups, government partners, Urban Pathways staff and consumers
• Communicates verbally and in writing in a professional manner at all times
• Facilitates/attends staff meetings, training, and supervisory sessions, as required
• Responds to all communications including telephone, email and other oral and written inquiries in a timely manner
• Performs all other duties as assigned and as required

Skills

• Master's degree in Public Policy, Social Work, or related field required
• Minimum of one year of experience in policy, advocacy, or campaign work
• Knowledge of New York City and State political processes, including legislative and budget
• Experience in government/non-profit contracting, local government procurement, and/or non-profit law required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong policy analysis and critical thinking skills
• Ability to distill complex ideas into clear, easy to understand communications
• Excellent research and writing skills
• Excellent computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.)
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as both part of a team and independently
• Flexibility in schedule required to occasionally work evening and weekend hours
• Comfortable with travel by public transportation throughout New York City
• Commitment to Urban Pathways' mission and to uplifting the voices of people with lived experiences of homelessness and mental health disorders
• Required to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and evenings
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 25 lbs.), type, write, read, speak, see, and hear
• Knowledge of policy issues in New York City's human services field, as well as a firm understanding of City State and Federal government and legislative processes preferred
• Experience with homeless, mentally-ill and substance abuse population preferred
• Group facilitation skills preferred
• Valid driver's license with clean driving record a plus

Benefits

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.

Company Overview