01/17/2011 16801

POLICY AIDE

DEFINITION: This is beginning level professional work assisting in the analysis and development of policy in an agency policy office or in the Governor’s Policy Office.

An employee in this job functions as a staff assistant to the agency policy manager or specialists in the review of state programs. Work involves participating in conducting studies of programs to identify key policy issues impacting the priorities established by the Governor, and assisting in drafting policy recommendations for programmatic direction to agency managers in the development of programs and initiatives consistent with administration goals and objectives. Work involves analyzing data, researching assigned topics, interviewing program managers, and summarizing comments from interest groups, publications and officials of other states and the Federal Government. Work is distinguished from the Executive Policy Specialist jobs by the supervision received during the course of studies, the technical direction provided, and the limited independent development of conclusions. Work is reviewed by a higher level manager or specialist through conferences and reports for soundness of methodology and effective writing.

EXAMPLES OF WORK: Participates in the review of state programs as a staff assistant to higher level policy office staff.

Researches and analyzes program policy issues in support of higher level managers or specialists in the development of executive policy recommendations.

Identifies and recommends policy options to be considered in the development of overall program policy recommendations.

Attends legislative committee hearings and meetings with program managers to assess the impacts of legislative initiatives on administration policy.

Assists higher level policy managers or specialists in developing and using advanced analytical techniques.

Participates in the preparation of reports of findings and analysis.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: Knowledge of the principles and methodology used in the collection, analysis, and presentation of statistical, economic, or administrative data.

Knowledge of the structure and operations of state government.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.

Ability to communicate effectively orally.

Ability to communicate effectively in writing.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING: One year of governmental policy analysis experience;

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An equivalent combination of experience and training.