Policy Analyst

The Institute’s policy analysts drive our research and advocacy work forward. They design and lead research projects that bring together stories, research studies, and statistics to illuminate the causes and conditions of poverty. They also build coalitions, often serving as thought leaders to develop workable policy proposals and build momentum on policy campaigns. During the legislative session, they spend considerable time in our statehouse actively engaging with policymakers and coalition partners to advance change. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Research: Develop and execute research projects that illuminate the causes and conditions of poverty in Indiana. 

• Seek and write grants to engage in original mixed-methods research to produce original, state-specific policy analysis and public education materials.
• Lead project teams to execute research activities, including review of academic/gray literature, quantitative data analysis, original interviews and/or focus groups. 
• Lead development of reports, policy briefs, fact sheets, videos, or other products
• Share expertise with members of the media, organizations, coalition partners, other community-based organizations and policymakers.

Advocacy: Lead policy advocacy efforts related to key issue areas 

• Develop policy proposals, including legislation.
• Cultivate relationships with legislative champions or other key officials who can drive policy change forward.
• Build and invigorate coalitions with diverse membership to create momentum on key policy issues.
• Lobby for and against legislation through testimony and direct conversation with legislators, and activation of partners and the public.
• Develop strategies to empower and activate Hoosiers, especially those who experience financial instability.  

Organizational leadership: Serve as an engaged member of the leadership team for Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute

• Contribute to decision-making about the vision, mission, and strategic goals of the Institute.
• Participate in interviews and hiring decisions for other team members.
• Guide and mentor research associates, policy fellows, and interns. 

Specific Responsibilities for Current Opening

The policy analyst selected for this position will have a primary focus on research and advocacy related to tax & budget policy, with an eye toward promoting child and family well-being. The analyst will also engage in grant writing, supporting other research and advocacy efforts, and team leadership responsibilities.

To that end, the following qualities would be desirable: 

• Strong computational abilities and skills to conduct quantitative analysis using software (e.g., R, SPSS, STATA) that can inform policy action
• Ability to translate complex numerical data into digestible graphics, social media products, statements, and publications for public consumption
• Experience with Indiana tax policy (e.g., fiscal analyst, AmericaCorps VITA program), experience conducting research on tax and budget issues in Indiana, or working in a position requiring knowledge of Indiana’s tax code
• Experience engaging in the Indiana Statehouse in legislative policy work (e.g., grassroots efforts, speaking to legislators/staff, advocacy or lobbying etc.). 

Your Teammates:

• Optimists and problem-solvers who recognize that challenges exist but continually strive to overcome them
• Teammates who celebrate the accomplishments of others and provide feedback and support that helps each team member grow and excel
• Humble learners who constantly seek out new information and value the voices and lived experiences of others
• Self-starters who work independently and creatively with limited supervision or direction
• Individuals who care deeply about delivering policy wins that support financial well-being 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

REPORTS TO: Director of Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute, Executive Director of the Indiana Community Action Association 

CO-MANAGES: Researcher & Communications Coordinator (X1), Research Associate (x1), Policy Fellows (x2), Legislative Interns 

COLLABORATES WITH: Contract Lobbyist, Policy Analyst (x1), Community Needs Analyst (x1)

LOCATION REQUIREMENTS: Policy analysts may live anywhere in Indiana, but will need to spend significant time in Indianapolis during the legislative session (January – March/April). During the remainder of the year, flexible and remote work options can be negotiated depending on current projects.

TRAVEL: Occasional travel within and out of state for meetings with Community Action Agencies and coalition partners, conferences (locations vary), and federal advocacy in Washington, D.C.  

SALARY and BENEFITS: $62,000-68,000 annually with health insurance, 5% retirement contribution (no match required), paid time off (7.38 hours per biweekly pay period), 36 hour work week, workplace flexibility, amazing team, meaningful work. 

TO APPLY: We are eager to receive your cover letter with a description of why the job interests you, your resume, two references, and a writing sample. Materials can be sent to institute@incap.org. The Institute’s current policy requires written work to be completed without the use of generative AI. 

About the Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute

The Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute engages in research and promotes public policies to help Hoosier families achieve and maintain financial well-being. 

• We believe that when Hoosiers are financially stable, they can achieve their full potential and better contribute to their communities.
• We recognize that historic and ongoing discrimination on the basis of race, gender, ability, and other social identities contribute to economic inequities for Hoosier families.
• We know that policy plays an important role in dismantling inequities and in creating financial well-being for all.
• We value, gather, and share stories, statistics, and research studies to illuminate the opportunities and challenges that Hoosiers experience.
• We promote evidence-based solutions and build coalitions to engage in direct and strategic conversations with policymakers and the public to advance change. 

The Institute is a program of the Indiana Community Action Association.

Indiana’s 22 Community Action Agencies provide over 70 programs & services to Hoosiers throughout Indiana to address poverty and improve communities. 

The Institute is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, creed, sex, age, disability, marital or parental status, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, veteran or military status, or any other characteristics protected under applicable law. We encourage candidates who have experienced financial instability to apply.