Research and Policy Analyst Children’s Healthwatch

POSITION SUMMARY:

Children’s HealthWatch is a multi-site network of pediatricians and public health researchers with the mission of achieving health equity for young children and their families by advancing research to transform policy. Headquartered at Boston Medical Center, we collect data on the frontlines of health care to understand how policy decisions impact the health and well-being of young children and families. We then analyze and share our findings with academics and policymakers to inform policy at the state and federal levels.

The Research and Policy Analyst will be responsible for supporting and carrying out research and policy work for Children’s HealthWatch under the supervision of the Director of Policy and the direction of other team members. This role will conduct policy research and analysis, such as tracking and analyzing legislative, budget, and regulatory actions, and assist in developing and disseminating policy-relevant publications and advocacy materials. This role will also conduct research literature reviews and draft and edit publications and presentations. The Research and Policy Analyst will also attend meetings with legislators and staff and support policy partnerships and coalition-building efforts. 

In accordance with Children's HealthWatch's work and ethos, the Research and Policy Analyst will be expected to uphold and advance racial and health equity in all of their work. We believe that all children (and their caregivers), regardless of race, ethnicity, national origin, religious affiliation, disability, citizenship status, or sexual orientation, have the right to good physical, mental, and emotional health.

Position: Research and Policy Analyst Children’s Healthwatch       

Department: Pediatrics

Schedule: Full Time

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES:

Center Duties – under supervision of Director of Policy

• Supports Children’s HealthWatch policy efforts, focusing on state and federal policies in collaboration with the Director of Policy and the policy team.

• Participates in coalitions and legislative meetings at the state and federal levels. Draft policy-relevant documents including written/oral testimony, letters to legislators/administrators, policy briefs/reports, and presentations for policymakers and stakeholders.

• Tracks and analyzes legislation, regulations, and budget items related to policy priorities.

• Helps identify engagement opportunities and assists the Director of Policy in managing policy initiatives and responding to emerging issues.

• Co-leads the Healthy Families Tax Credits Coalition, a statewide network of over 80 organizations and institutions, in coordination with the Director of Policy.

• Interprets and translates Children’s HealthWatch research and the research of others into policy-relevant materials.

• Supports relationship building with and engagement of community members, organizational partners, and policymakers to advance evidence-based policies that improve the health and well-being of children and families.

• Represents Children’s HealthWatch at designated conferences, meetings, and events.

• Conducts web research and literature reviews.

• Works with other staff members to support projects within the organization—including research, policy, and grant work. This includes drafting, editing, and informing print publications and academic or policy-relevant presentations.

(The above statements in this job description are intended to depict the general nature and level of work assigned to the employee(s) in this job. The above is not intended to represent an exhaustive list of accountable duties and responsibilities required).

JOB REQUIREMENTS

EDUCATION:

• Associate’s degree plus 3-5 years of experience in advocacy or research or bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in related field preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• Minimum of two years of relevant experience in policy advocacy, community organizing, or research, preferably in health-related field. Experience in legislative office a plus.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES (KSA):

• Passion and drive to ensure the healthy development of all young children.

• Commitment to the advancement of racial and health equity among families with children.

• Familiarity with legislative and regulatory processes at the federal and/or state level.

• Excellent oral and written communications skills, including an understanding of messaging towards diverse audiences.

• Strong analytical and research skills, with the ability to interpret and summarize policy developments and peer-reviewed research.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Strong ability to take initiative to advance projects.

• Openness to feedback; ability to take direction.

• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to work in teams, relate to people, advocate for their needs and the needs of others, and manage conflict.

• Strong problem-solving, decision-making, and time management skills.

• Comfortable with speaking before small and large groups.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Disabled/Veterans