Policy Associate II

Location: The position is based in Washington, DC, or New England with a flexible hybrid schedule

Experience: Bachelor’s Degree Required; Advanced Degree Preferred; 3-5 years’ experience 
Salary: $60,000 to $75,000, commensurate with education and experience
Date: All applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis

 

Who We Are

Opportunity Consulting, a consulting firm dedicated to advancing equity and enhancing public policy, is in search of an Associate. The firm specializes in various fields such as education, workforce development, housing policy, and other aspects of municipal policy. Our mission is to assist public service organizations to build initiatives, conditions, and competencies to improve outcomes and opportunities for those our institutions and systems have historically underserved.As Opportunity Consulting enters its next stage of expansion and influence, we aim to assemble a streamlined team to support our endeavors, with the Associate holding a pivotal position.

We are most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one who comes from a less traditional background. Studies have shown that women and people of color are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every one of the qualifications as described in a job description. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of our qualifications. If you are unsure whether you meet the qualification for this position, please feel free to contact us to discuss your application.

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Who You Are

You are a dynamic player on our small team. You have experience working in or with state or local government and systems. You are detail-oriented, process literate, and committed to the mission of improving opportunities for all. There is no typical day, so you enjoy wearing multiple hats. You are motivated to speak up, solve problems, follow through, and contribute your talents to the greater goals. You enjoy a highly collaborative team environment and are effective at managing your own time. As you gain experience, you take on increased responsibility.

 

Essential Responsibilities

Successful applicants will lead or contribute to the following activities:

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1. Equity Analysis: Lead the integration of equity considerations into public policy analysis, ensuring that policies and initiatives address systemic disparities and promote equitable outcomes. Utilize data-driven approaches, and developing actionable recommendations for promoting equity is crucial.

 

2. Strategy Development for Equity: Contribute to the development of strategies that prioritize equity and social justice, with an emphasis on organizations and municipalities. Collaborate with stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and develop innovative approaches to address systemic inequities.

 

3. Data-driven Equity Assessments: Lead a team of data analysts to evaluate the equity implications of public policies and programs. Utilize disaggregated data and intersectional approaches to identify disparities, highlight inequitable outcomes, and inform evidence-based policy recommendations.

 

4. Community Engagement: Design and manage engagement with communities and stakeholders to ensure that their voices and perspectives are incorporated into policy improvements. Foster inclusive and participatory decision-making, promoting equity and empowering marginalized groups.

 

5. Equity in Resource Allocation: Analyze resource allocation processes and budgetary decisions to identify opportunities for promoting equity. Provide guidance on prioritizing investments and allocating resources to address systemic disparities and ensure equitable service delivery.

 

6. Collaboration and Partnerships: Collaborate with external organizations, community groups, and advocacy organizations focused on equity and social justice. Foster partnerships to leverage collective knowledge, share best practices, and develop collaborative initiatives that advance equitable public policy goals.

 

7. Policy Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess the effectiveness of policies in achieving equity outcomes. Develop indicators and metrics to track progress, identify areas for improvement, and drive evidence-based policy adjustments.

 

Qualifications & Skills Required

• Bachelor’s Degree Required; Advanced Degree Preferred: A degree and 3-5 years of progressive experience in relevant fields such as public policy, urban planning, social sciences, or a related discipline. Understanding equity frameworks, social justice principles, and their application to public policy is essential.

 

• Ethical and Professional Standards: Uphold the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality, and professionalism. Demonstrate a commitment to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equity in all aspects of work.

 

• Municipal Government Expertise: Have a comprehensive understanding of municipal governance structures, policies, and decision-making processes. Familiarity with local government initiatives and programs addressing equity, diversity, and inclusion is highly valued.

 

• Leadership and Collaboration Skills: Showcase strong conflict resolution skills with a proven ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including community groups, government officials, and advocacy organizations at all levels.

 

• Data Analysis and Research Skills: Possess advanced proficiency in data analysis tools and research methodologies, as well as the ability to apply qualitative and quantitative research methods and interpret findings through an equity lens. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.

 

• Communication and Advocacy: Exhibit excellent customer service, interpersonal, and written and oral communication skills. Demonstrated experience in producing reports, policy briefs, and engaging in advocacy efforts is highly desirable.

 

• Continuous Learning and Growth: Exhibit a growth mindset, actively seeking opportunities for professional development and staying updated on emerging research, best practices, and policy innovations related to equity analysis in public policy.

 

• Willingness to engage in a wide range of tasks.

 

Benefits

• Health care, vision, and dental benefits

• 120 hours PTO per year, wellness leave, and federal government holiday closures including some additional local holidays in Washington, D.C. (i.e. Emancipation Day)

• 4% employer contribution on a 401K retirement plan.

• To ensure staff has synchronous opportunities for rest and renewal, the office is closed for a week-long winter break during the last week of the year.

 

To Apply

Please send your resume to fill out the following application or use this QR Code:

 

EEO and Important Policy Statements:

Opportunity Consulting is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We recruit, employ, train, compensate, and promote qualified persons in all job titles without regard to age, ancestry, color, gender, HIV status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation (including gender expression, identity, and reproductive status), genetic background, veteran status, family leave status, and any protected group status as defined by applicable law. Our policy reflects and affirms the Company’s commitment to the principles of fair employment and the elimination of all discriminatory practices.