Senior Education Policy Analyst Jobs in Decatur, GA

JOIN OUR MISSION

This isn't just another policy job-it's a hands-on opportunity to deliver real results that strengthen state government across the South. As a Policy Analyst with CSG South, you'll turn research into action, applying analytical rigor and professional discipline to help public servants make informed, impactful decisions.

We're seeking a results-driven, high-performing professional who thrives in an execution-focused environment, values excellence, and is committed to advancing state governments across the Southern region.

WHO WE ARE

The Southern Office of The Council of State Governments (CSG South) empowers and elevates public servants across the 15 Southern states. Through policy innovation, leadership development, and regional collaboration, we equip leaders to serve their constituents with excellence. We live out our core values in all that we do:

• Servant's Heart - We lead by serving others.
• Ambitious - We set bold goals and pursue them relentlessly.
• Adaptable - We respond to challenges with innovation and agility.
• Accountable - We honor commitments and own our outcomes.
• Credible - We earn trust through excellence and integrity.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Policy Analyst executes CSG South's policy and research initiatives through precise, results-oriented work that supports state leaders across the Southern region. Reporting to the Director of Policy and Research, this role focuses on implementing policy projects, conducting thorough research and analysis, tracking legislative activity, and delivering timely, high-quality outputs that inform and assist members. The Policy Analyst collaborates closely with colleagues, elected officials, and partners to advance committee work, publications, and programs. This position demands strong attention to detail, accountability for deliverables, and a steadfast commitment to nonpartisan, high-performing public service.

ROLE RESPONSIBILITIES

The Policy Analyst executes CSG South's policy and research priorities through high-quality analysis, member engagement, and program support. Primary responsibilities include:

• Foster productive relationships with legislative members, staff, and partners through consistent, professional, and responsive communication.
• Demonstrate nonpartisan integrity in all research, writing, and interactions, maintaining neutrality across political and policy perspectives.
• Track legislative sessions and coordinate travel to member state capitols to build and sustain professional relationships, promote CSG South initiatives, and support member engagement. Traveling to at least six states within the region during the general legislative session season.
• Supporting one or more standing committees of CSG South, including preparing liaisons with and preparing policy committee chairs, creating issue briefs/reports, and meeting materials.
  • Available Policy Committee: Human Services and Public Safety
• Monitor and analyze policy trends and state-level developments across three to four assigned states within the Southern region.
• Collaborate with the Director of Policy & Research to plan and execute at least one in-person policy program annually, such as a policy masterclass or domestic delegation, and additional opportunities for virtual or recorded policy engagements.
• Produce timely, high-quality policy publication deliverables, including at least eight digital publications annually, in coordination with the Director of Policy & Research.
• Respond to policy information requests from members of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, providing accurate and objective analysis.
• Support the Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) and other major events by:
  • Identifying relevant policy topics and speakers;
  • Coordinating committee sessions and technical tours;
  • Preparing written session summaries; and
  • Briefing committee officers and presenters.
• Present policy research and organizational information before legislative committees, member groups, and external partners as needed.
• Maintain accurate internal records and databases, contributing to operational tracking and reporting.
• Cultivate and maintain a network of state government officials, researchers, and external experts to strengthen CSG South's information resources.
• Design, administer, and analyze surveys and other instruments to gather policy data and member insights.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of three years of employment experience in the research and public policy arena (academic research cannot be substituted for employment experience)
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize complex information into clear, accessible, and nonpartisan policy materials.
• Results-driven and detail-oriented, with a strong sense of accountability for outcomes.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and presentation skills for varied audiences.
• Confident and professional communicator with elected officials, senior staff, and policy experts.
• Curious and intellectually agile-able to pivot between topics and respond to emerging policy issues.
• Collaborative, self-directed, and motivated to contribute to a high-performing team.
• Experience coordinating convenings, policy briefings, or programs involving state government stakeholders preferred.
• Familiarity with Southern state political and policy environments strongly desired.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, project management platforms, and policy-tracking tools like Quorum, FiscalNote, or similar platforms.
• Genuine interest in and commitment to advancing the organization's mission, values, and goals.
• Strong interpersonal skills include self-awareness, sensitivity, and valuing others.
• Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be nonpartisan in performing CSG duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds.
• A bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, economics, or a related field is required.
• A master's degree in public administration, political science, economics, or a related discipline is preferred.
• Willingness to travel occasionally (up to 20%) for state visits, conferences, events, meetings, and policy convenings as needed.

WE ALSO OFFER

• A hybrid work schedule: Based in Decatur, GA, with the option to regularly work from home on Tuesday and Thursday unless traveling, discontinued, or temporarily suspended for business reasons.
• Generous personal paid and sick leave policies plus 12 paid holidays.
• Office closure the week between Christmas and New Year's Day, a paid day off in the month of your birthday, and other periodic telework or paid days off. These benefits are at the discretion of the Regional Director.
• A recently renovated office with amenities such as beverages, an in-office business casual dress code, and a collaborative floor plan with options for various workstyles and sit-to-stand desks.

To learn more about CSG South visit us at www.csgsouth.org. To learn more about careers at CSG, and about our comprehensive benefit offerings, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, PSLF eligibility and more, please visit our website here.

COMPENSATION

The salary range for this position, based in Decatur, GA, is $60,000 to $65,000 annually. This salary range is subject to change based on work location and market conditions.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS

Interested applicants must complete the online application and include resume and cover letter.

Equal opportunity employer as to all protected groups, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.