JOB SUMMARY:

Under the direction of the Director of Public Policy, the Policy Associate blends the work of policy analysis, communications, and engagement to translate rules and legislation into materials for meaningful action. The Policy Associate will monitor and analyze federal, state, and/or local policies as they affect working families, their children and the early childhood profession; assist in the development of IAFC’s policy and legislative proposals, write policy briefs and reports, track policy proposals/bills that impact early care and education, provide staffing support to state and local committees, present on materials to community partners in Chicago and across the state, and provide written materials and analysis for IAFC’s membership as well as elected officials on key policy priorities. All work to be completed with minimum supervision and in accordance with organizational standards.

This incumbent will be expected to promote and adhere to the workplace core capabilities of: accountability, customer focus, continuous quality improvement (CQI), communication, competent people and clear priorities. All work to be completed with minimum supervision and in accordance with organizational standards.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following. The organization reserves the right to add to, delete, change, or modify the essential duties and responsibilities at any time.

1. Monitor and analyze local, state, and/or federal policies, programs, and budgets.
2. Draft fact sheets, “action alerts”, and other educational or advocacy materials.
3. Write content and suggest updates for IAFC’s website with relevant materials as needed.
4. Present findings and analyses to IAFC staff to inform upcoming campaigns and priorities.
5. Assist in determining cost estimates and statistical analyses for policy proposals.
6. Build relationships with and serve as contact for policy priorities with elected officials, legislative staff, and agency early childhood leaders at local, state, and federal levels.
7. Develop ongoing working relationships with other organizations and coalitions related to early childhood care and education. Lead or represent IAFC on coalitions and committees, including the We, the Village coalition. Attend, facilitate, and attend staff meetings as needed.
8. Lead organizational efforts related to the Raising Illinois coalition, for which IAFC serves as a Lead Facilitating Organization.
9. Prepare written plans and reports a required by agency and foundation needs.
10. Develop specialized knowledge in relevant policy areas. Maintain working knowledge of policies in areas related to early care and education. Maintain resource library on relevant topics.
11. Provide lobbying support during legislative session.
12. Testify in front of state agencies, the General Assembly, and other public bodies regarding early childhood policy priorities.
13. Present workshops, meetings and training to members and general public on policy issues in accordance with department goals and organizational needs.
14. Represent IAFC at state advisory committees and councils charged with overseeing and crafting early care and education legislative and administrative policy.
15. Collaborate with community engagement staff on department events.
16. Manager project including development and implementation of timelines and tasks related to policy work.
17. Support fundraising for policy and advocacy, as needed.
18. Execute our workplace core capabilities of: accountability, customer focus, continuous quality improvement (CQI), communication, competent people, and clear priorities.
19. Other Functions: the organization may assign other functions to the job at its discretion.

QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:

Bachelor's degree and one to two years related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Understanding of policy process. Excel, PowerPoint, analytical/persuasive writing a must. Public presentation experience and/or skills required. Research skills – online and otherwise - required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

Access to reliable personal transportation, insurance, and valid Driver’s License.

OTHER SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Working knowledge of the political/legislative process
• Ability to think strategically, work collaboratively, and take initiative
• Demonstrable research and analytical skills
• Excellent writing, editing, and speaking skills
• Knowledge of early childhood care/education programs
• Valid driver’s license and insurance. Ability to travel in Illinois – particularly during the legislative session
• Must be able to handle multiple projects and timelines, show strong and creative problem-solving abilities, and be an independent worker

Benefits of Working at IAFC:

• Working with passionate team members that are driven by our Mission: Illinois Action for Children is a catalyst for organizing, developing and supporting strong families and powerful communities where children matter most.
• We strive to foster and implement a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion across our organization. We know it is not only critical to the success of diversity initiatives - but instrumental in creating an unbiassed and inclusive workplace! It not only relates to the diverse clients we serve but also creates a positive employee experience.
• We offer an extensive benefits package that adds value to your total compensation. Our benefits include:

• Health, dental and vision insurance plans with company contribution of 95% for single coverage
• 401k with company match
• Generous PTO – first year-23 days, the second year-28 days, the third year and on - 35 days
• 11 Paid Holidays and 1 Floating Holiday
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Flexible Spending Account
• STD & LTD insurance
• Company-paid Life Insurance

Location: Chicago, IL - Hybrid

Minimum starting salary $58,300, - compensation commensurate with experience and education

IL Action for Children is EEO/M/F/V/D employer

While we desire for this job posting to be comprehensive, all aspects of the position may be amended at any time at the discretion of IAFC including job duties, work location and/or work schedule.