Entry Level Public Policy Analyst Jobs in Florida

General Summary OPPAGA is seeking a Legislative Policy Analyst. The analyst will serve as a technical expert conducting research studies, program evaluations, and policy analyses of public programs and agencies. Legislative Policy Analysts are expected to show a high degree of proficiency in conducting program evaluations and policy analyses, demonstrate strong writing and presentation skills, and develop substantive knowledge of Florida state government operations and the legislative process.

While legislative policy analysts operate under supervision of a staff director, most work is performed independently. The Legislature offers a competitive benefits package. This position is not eligible for remote work.

Examples of Work Performed Collects, analyzes, and summarizes data on programs and policies administered by state agencies using library resources, personal interviews, telephone surveys, written surveys, budget documents, agency annual reports, and available data bases. Prepares concise and accurate written summaries of the data gathered on state agency operations or programs that can be used as part of reports. Participates as part of a team in developing an oral presentation of the results of a study to legislators, legislative staff, and other groups.

Participates as part of a team in designing written or telephone surveys to gather information on agency performance or analyze a public policy issue. Develops and maintains contacts with key agency staff, legislators, legislative staff, and the public. Participates as part of a team in conceptualizing report issues and developing research reports.

Conducts personal interviews with agency personnel, legislators, legislative staff or others to gather information about an agency or public policy issue. Possesses technical knowledge of appropriate research methodology to effectively and accurately evaluate a state agency or program administered by the agency. Conceptualizes issues, analyzes and synthesizes information and consistently develops clear messages in reports.

Performs other related duties as required. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of legal terminology and legal research. Knowledge and expertise in assigned policy areas.

Knowledge of applicable computer word processing, spreadsheet, and database programs. Knowledge of Florida state government, legislative rules, and procedures. Knowledge of research and analysis techniques.

Skill in reading comprehension, analysis, and organization. Skill in program evaluation, policy analysis, and performance auditing. Ability to communicate effectively and concisely verbally and in writing.

Ability to take action in situations that lack clear direction. Ability to take initiative on independent research projects. Ability to work independently and under pressure on multiple tasks.

Ability to work effectively with legislators, legislative staff, and other constituents. Ability to plan, organize, and coordinate work assignments. Ability to work cooperatively as a team member.

Ability to conduct meetings and to make presentations. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others. Ability to collect and analyze data.

Ability to organize data into logical format for presentation in reports, documents, and other written materials. Ability to solve problems and make decisions. Ability to exercise discretion and maintain confidentiality.

Minimum Qualifications A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and three years of professional experience in research, analysis, program planning and evaluation, or administrative work with training in policy analysis and research methods. A master's degree from an accredited college or university can substitute for one year of the required experience. A doctorate from an accredited college or university can substitute for two years of the required experience.

Professional experience as described above can substitute on a year-for-year basis for the required college education. Accommodation for Disability If an accommodation is needed for a disability, please notify Human Resources at (850) 488-6803.