Policy Analyst - Criminal Justice
Overview
The Kentucky Center for Economic Policy (KCEP) seeks to hire a Policy Analyst focused on criminal justice reform issues in the state. The position will work collaboratively to improve lives and reduce racial and economic disparities through policies that reduce incarceration in Kentucky’s prisons and jails. Successful applicants will demonstrate an ability to conduct data and policy analysis, produce research and communications, and conduct advocacy as well as a commitment to social, economic and racial justice.
Background
KCEP seeks to improve the quality of life for all Kentuckians through research, education and advocacy on important policy issues facing the commonwealth. KCEP is a non-profit, non-partisan organization and a respected provider of solid information on the impact of policies on Kentucky communities. It strives for strategic, timely and analytically rigorous research as well as compelling, clear and accessible communications. KCEP seeks to influence public understanding and debate about state fiscal and economic issues and contribute to real, lasting improvements in policy. Founded in 2011, KCEP is affiliated with the Mountain Association for Community Economic Development (MACED).
KCEP seeks to build a thriving and equitable commonwealth. In a state with one of the highest rates of incarceration in the nation, and with unacceptable racial disparities, KCEP is growing our focus on criminal justice policy issues.
Position Description
The duties and responsibilities of the Policy Analyst include the following.
Policy Analysis
- Build expertise on justice issues through analysis of data, reports, legislation and regulations; scanning and tracking criminal justice developments in the state and around the country; and communicating with key experts and resources both in-state and nationally.
- Develop policy options, recommendations and legislative proposals.
- Identify, research and frame criminal justice policy issues and author policy briefs, reports, blogs, fact sheets, an online data tracker and other publications.
Communications and Public Education
- Work with communications staff to create compelling products including social media, press releases and op-eds.
- Prepare and deliver clear public presentations that help everyday Kentuckians understand and support justice reforms, and be a voice in the media on these issues as appropriate.
Coalition Building and Advocacy
- Build and maintain partnerships with other organizations working on criminal justice reform, including providing support to and collaborating with grassroots partners.
- Build relationships with a wide variety of leaders across the state to increase support for effective policy ideas.
- Participate in developing and implementing strategies to influence decision-makers and change criminal justice policy, including lobbying, testimony and media advocacy.
Administration and Team Support
- Carry out administrative tasks as needed, including related to KCEP mailings, events and other activities.
- Assist with keeping KCEP systems, such as our contact database, up to date.
- Support other staff work through peer review and feedback on draft reports and assistance with analysis as appropriate.
- Take a leadership role as appropriate in team projects.
- Assist with fundraising activities as needed including grant reports and proposals as well as individual donor work.
- Practice safety in all aspects of the job.
- Other duties as assigned.