Jun 12, 2015 - Assist with planning and execution of conferences and webinars, including the ... Familiarity with social
POSITION ANNOUNCEMENT Policy/Research Assistant Organization Overview CSSP is a national organization recognized for its leadership in shaping policy, reforming public systems and building the capacity of communities. We influence and support elected officials, public administrators, families and neighborhood residents to take the actions they need. Our goal is to make sure low income children can learn, develop and thrive with the support of strong families, in safe and healthy communities. CSSP translates research and new ideas into strategies for on-the-ground implementation. We use the knowledge from those real experiences to better inform the next generation of ideas, programs and policies. To make sure changes are equitable and sustainable, CSSP believes in the importance of engaging residents as leaders in work that affects their lives. Job Description CSSP seeks a Policy/Research Assistant in the Washington, DC office. The Policy/Research Assistant will support the public policy work at CSSP and in so work across internal project teams and with partner organizations to help advance the organization’s policy agenda including areas related to child welfare and family supports, poverty and economic stability, early childhood and community change. As a member of this team, the Policy/Research Assistant will provide a combination of administrative and policy support functions including conducting policy and program research, writing policy papers and issue briefs, preparing materials for workshops and meetings, and other related supportive tasks as needed. This position is ideal for someone interested in starting a career in public policy. Specific duties and responsibilities include: • Conduct literature reviews, Web-based research and writing for all upcoming policy reports, issue briefs and CSSP statements. • Collect and analyze CPS and ACS Census data and prepare materials for the President’s annual budget release. • Write at least one relevant policy blog post per week. • Participate in all requested policy team meetings and cross-team strategy sessions and take themed notes. • Attend relevant policy meetings with partners, hearings and hill briefings, take and share notes. • Update PolicyforResults web tool with new data. • Assist in developing a range of written materials, including policy and practice guides, technical assistance tools, blog posts, website content and other Web-based materials. • Assist with planning and execution of conferences and webinars, including the ability to effectively use the technology to support these conferences/webinars.
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General office management and administrative duties, including serving as back-up for the Receptionist by answering phones, greeting visitors, sending packages and organizing and maintaining electronic and hard-copy project materials. Support other work as assigned.
Required Skills/Qualifications • Strong interest in social policy, particularly in creating pathways out of poverty, reforming child welfare and other human service systems and revitalizing neighborhoods. • Commitment to eradicating structural racism where it exists, interest in analyzing and addressing racial disparities and other inequities and desire to participate in CSSP’s internal capacity building work on these issues. • BA with one to two years of relevant professional experience preferred; ideally have, or currently pursuing a graduate degree in social work, public policy or public administration. • Outstanding written and oral communications skills. • Excellent attention to detail and organizational and time management skills. • Possess analytical, research and writing skills. • Work well autonomously and as a member of a team. • Knowledge of computers and technology – in particular, proficient in MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, audio/visual and conference calling technology. • Familiarity with social media, blog and website platforms. • Flexibility and an ability to work in a dynamic and fast-paced environment. • Ability and willingness to travel. Compensation and Benefits: • Starting salary is commensurate with experience. Excellent benefits provided including short-term and long-term disability, life insurance, health insurance, retirement benefits, generous vacation, sick and holiday leave schedules provided. • CSSP is an equal opportunity employer and strongly believes that our organization and our work benefit from the experiences and perspectives of a diverse staff. How to Apply: Qualified applicants should send cover letter with salary requirements, resume and writing sample to
[email protected] (subject: Policy/Research Assistant for Policy Team). Position will remain open until filled. For best consideration, submit your resume by June 12, 2015.
