Organization Overview
Advance Illinois is a not-for-profit policy and advocacy organization that works toward a healthy public education system that prepares students to achieve success in college, career and civic life. We are committed to an aligned education system that strives for equity, stresses college and career readiness and completion, and supports the whole child from the earliest years through adulthood. We believe every child should have access to a high-quality education regardless of geography, income, or race.
Spanning the early childhood through higher education continuum, Advance Illinois analyzes research, data, and best practice; engages practitioners, families and partners; and develops and promotes policies designed to strengthen public education and care in Illinois. We are seeking a passionate individual who is committed to public education, looking to grow in the not-for-profit sector, and able to thrive in a fast-paced and high-energy workplace to join our policy team.
Position Summary
Advance Illinois seeks an outstanding Senior Policy Associate to work on issues related to state education policy. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical, research, writing and communication skills, and the demonstrated ability to go above and beyond to support multiple projects.
The Senior Policy Associate will report to the Director of Policy and will support the policy needs of the organization. We are looking for a self-starter who is comfortable working in a small team environment and partnering not only with staff members, but with diverse outside partners.
Competencies
Demonstrated commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment
Excellent research and analytic skills, including the ability to quickly synthesize large amounts of information
Excellent communication skills – writing, speaking, listening, advising – and political savvy
Demonstrated ability to communicate complex ideas and information
Demonstrated ability to extract, clean, analyze, and interpret trends from complex data sets using R, Python, or other statistical programming languages
Proficiency in using software such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point, including demonstrated ability to design the layout of document text, tables, and graphs
Experience with Tableau, Power BI, or other data visualization platforms a plus
Knowledge of government policy, programs, and cross‐system strategies at the state and national levels that support children and youth. Knowledge of PK12 funding policy and PK12 educator policy, and / or prior teaching experience is a plus
Ability to develop and iterate on policy solutions to statewide education issues
Strong facilitation skills, including knowledge and experience supporting inclusive conversations with diverse stakeholders
Interpersonal skills necessary to work effectively with a variety of colleagues and stakeholders
Demonstrated ability to take independent action, coordinate project activities, and assume responsibility
Essential Functions
Supports the development of innovative solutions, ideas, and best practices to improve Illinois PK12 funding and PK12 workforce training and support system
Writes issue briefs, articles and memoranda on policy issues and best practices for Advance Illinois staff. Oversees and executes research including literature reviews and landscape scans
Manages the collection, analysis and dissemination of information and data necessary to keep the team abreast of key issues and trends in the education system, inform development of policy solutions, and develop external reports. This includes analyzing financial and budget data
Facilitates meaningful conversations around funding levers, practices, policies and system structures to promote equity within the education system, including through PK12 funding and PK12 workforce training and support systems
Provides information and technical assistance to staff and other external policymakers. Provides policy analysis to committees, task forces, work groups that Advance Illinois participates in
Organizes, participates in, and conducts workshops, conferences, and seminars. Creates presentations and develop talking points, support state strategy sessions, and other meetings
Quickly analyzes draft legislation and recommends appropriate next steps and level of organizational engagement. Develops talking points and materials related to proposed legislation
Helps design and contributes to project strategy to deliver relevant and timely expertise to Advance Illinois staff
Education and Experience
Bachelor’s degree plus relevant quantitative analytic, and writing skills required
Minimum of 2 years’ experience in a similar role
Working Location
The position is located in Advance Illinois offices in either Chicago or Springfield. Advance Illinois is a hybrid workplace. Employees are expected to work from the office on Tuesdays and Thursdays and a floating day of their choice as well as be present at in-person meetings with partners as needed. The organization abides by CDC and other health and safety guidelines, and staff are expected to be vaccinated.
Preferred Start Date
The position offers flexibility for the start date, which can be set anytime between March 1 and June 30, 2025.
Compensation
The salary range is $58,000 to $65,000 per year depending on experience and qualifications. Additionally, employees have the opportunity to earn a bonus of 10% of annual salary for a total annual compensation of $63,800 to $71,500. Candidates with advanced qualifications may be eligible for a more senior policy position. Excellent benefits package includes: health/dental/vision insurance; short-term/long-term disability plans; Simple IRA with a company match plan; flexible spending account; holidays and vacation accrual; and ability to pay into a Health Savings Account.
To Apply
Complete this survey and submit a resume to policy@advanceillinois.org. All submissions will be acknowledged. Applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. Please do not call Advance Illinois.
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