The Policy Analyst is a newly created professional position under the Legislative and Public Affairs team. The Policy Analyst will track and analyze local, state and federal legislation and regulations that might impact HOC; research new policy ideas, national best practices, and trends in housing policy; and assist in developing charts, slides, fact sheets, memorandum and letters to support HOC’s internal policy making process and external legislative advocacy. A candidate that has the skills or willingness to learn may be asked to conducting data analysis and construct compelling data visualizations to better inform policy decisions.

As a member of a small team at a nimble, independent government agency the Policy Analyst will also be expected to perform other duties to support the needs of the Legislative and Public Affairs Division from time to time, such as assisting with drafting email newsletters or staffing events.

 Duties and Responsibilities:

Policy Research:

• Researching and drafting a memo analyzing how other local jurisdictions manage a particular policy or operational challenge.
• Working with operational divisions to assess the potential impact of a proposed legislative or regulatory change.
• Assisting in the planning and execution of a policy roundtable with HOC and other housing agencies to share information and best practices.
• Attending an informational hearing or webinar and reporting back to the team.
• Analyzing how funding streams and programs are implemented to look for opportunities to remove policy barriers or add additional resources.

Legislative Tracking and Advocacy:

• Maintaining a database of active legislation that may impact HOC and updating it as it moves through the legislative process.
• Tracking key legislative and regulatory dates such as public hearings, comment deadlines, and committee sessions and helping to ensure that HOC’s views are heard as appropriate.
• Assisting in the preparation of presentations, letters and memorandum to respond to legislative requests for information or provide information.
• Drafting position papers outlining HOC’s positions on legislation.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• Requires a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Government, or a related field.
• Three years’ experience in policy analysis and development in a legislative or advocacy role.
• Knowledge of legislative and budget processes at the county, state, and/or federal levels, preferably in Maryland.
• Must be proficient in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Excellent analytical skills and interpersonal skills and the ability to deal with people tactfully and effectively.
• Must be organized, have the ability to work independently, and exercise good judgment.
• Ability to communicate clearly both orally and in writing.