Policy Analyst, Advancing Data in Corrections (Remote or Hybrid)

CSG Justice Center

Policy Analyst, Advancing Data in Corrections

Who we are:

The Council of State Governments Justice Center works across the country to develop research-driven strategies to increase public safety and strengthen communities. To further this mission, we work with partners inside and outside of government to reduce crime and incarceration among youth and adults in contact with the justice system. We bring people from diverse systems and perspectives together to improve policy and practice. And we transform data and research findings into meaningful insights for decision-makers.

We're focused on three strategic goals:

• Break the cycle of incarceration.
• Advance health, opportunity, and equity.
• Use data to improve safety and justice.

When you join the CSG Justice Center, you join an organization that is uniquely positioned to cultivate innovation and drive data-driven reform nationally. We have over 170 employees based in more than 30 states who have decades of experience working in and with criminal, juvenile, and Tribal justice agencies. We have provided housing, mental health, and addiction services; served as educators and in workforce development agencies; and supported victims and survivors of crime. We have served governors, state legislators, and members of Congress on both sides of the political spectrum. What binds us together is a shared commitment to our mission; to one another; to a common set of values; and to the national, bipartisan advisory board that guides our work.

Learn more about careers at the CSG Justice Center.

How you'll fit in:

The CSG Justice Center is seeking a full-time policy analyst to support our Advancing Data in Corrections program. The Advancing Data in Corrections initiative consists of two programs: Resident Analysts and the Virtual Academy, which are catalysts for change within corrections agencies. In addition to these two main programs, the policy analyst will work closely with teams working on our community supervision and technology projects, which provide innovative technology tools to supervision agencies. The products, projects, and services provided by the staff who work in this portfolio of programs help Departments of Corrections (DOCs) build the capacity to effectively use their own data. This empowers agency leaders to make better operational decisions, improve system outcomes, and communicate compelling narratives to staff, policymakers, and the public.

An ideal candidate for this role will be excited about helping state agencies more effectively use data and to create training and tools to develop the research and analytic skills of DOC staff. They will have a track record of building and maintaining strong relationships and ensuring that complex projects move forward at a rapid pace. Familiarity with DOC data systems and data analytic techniques is a big plus but not required.

What you'll do:

Specific responsibilities of the policy analyst include the following:

• Support projects by co-creating high-quality materials, collaborating with team members, and coordinating internal and external efforts to ensure milestones and deadlines are consistently met.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with DOC data analysts, and our internal research team, facilitate productive meetings, and manage workflow for smooth progress and collaboration.
• Draft and track internal and external stakeholder updates on project developments.
• Work effectively with relevant project stakeholders, audiences, and funders to advance the project and consistently ensure deliverables meet all requirements and project timelines are adhered to.
• Consistently apply cultural competency and racial equity lens to programmatic work that strengthens the project's external relationships and goals.
• Coordinate and facilitate meetings and collaboration with key stakeholders, agency leadership and practitioners to improve agency staff practices and outcomes for people in prison and on supervision.
• Partner with content experts to deliver on-site guidance to support DOCs capacity to effectively use their own data.
• Distill data and implementation progress into compelling narratives, often using PowerPoint, and presenting these to executive-level oversight bodies and summarize technical assistance activities, in writing and orally, to funders on a regular basis.
• Design and create comprehensive training and mentoring resources for corrections data analysts.

What you'll bring:

• Ability to interact effectively with diverse people in different contexts and foster equity and inclusion through self-awareness, cultural sensitivity, and valuing others
• Dedication to public service with an unfailing commitment to act with civility, be nonpartisan in performing CSG Justice Center duties, and be a responsible steward of member and donor funds
• At least three years of professional experience in the field of criminal justice, with at least one year focused on policy analysis, adult education, online learning, or a related area-or an equivalent combination of relevant experience and education
• Willingness to travel frequently (up to twice a month) to deliver technical assistance on site in states across the country
• Knowledge of best practices across corrections and supervision agencies and an interest in working with corrections and supervision leaders to identify key metrics to track in order to achieve goals
• Proven track record of working in uncertainty and the ability to pivot as needed to advance projects
• Experience working in highly collaborative environments and the ability to move projects forward with team members who are situated in different internal divisions and located in external organizations
• Ability to work remotely with autonomy, understand technology, and effectively communicate across platforms
• Knowledge of criminal justice data systems and practical experience with data analysis, policy development, and/or implementation within the criminal justice field
• Reliable and secure internet/data connection and flexibility for using a personal device for internet connectivity during business travel (a cost offset is provided by the CSG Justice Center)
• Experience managing complicated processes involving large groups of stakeholders
• Excellent research, writing, and editing skills and strong critical and strategic thinking
• Strong oral communication skills, including the ability to effectively distill and present complex information in a concise, accessible way
• Ability to develop, monitor, and deliver project-based timelines and reports
• Ability to communicate project objectives, as well as the role each internal and external stakeholder plays in the project
• Ability to actively contribute ideas that support relevant project objectives and goals
• Demonstrated experience developing agendas for and participating in strategic meetings with key stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including maturity and an ability to work independently and in a team setting

How you apply:

If you're interested in helping us drive change across the country, you should upload the following elements with your application:

1. Resume (this should include a comprehensive list of related professional, internship, and volunteer experience with applicable dates)
2. 3 Application Questions
3. At least three professional references

We will consider all paid and unpaid experience relative to this position, including internships, fellowships, and volunteer activities.

CSG believes that pay equity and pay transparency advance workplace fairness. Compensation will be equitable and based on experience and geography. The salary range for this position is $64,500 - $88,500. Salary ranges are subject to change based on work location and market conditions.

Our organization offers flexibility in work arrangements, allowing for remote work or a hybrid model. Candidates residing in the NYC metropolitan area will be considered for hybrid model employment.

To learn more about careers at the CSG Justice Center, and about our comprehensive benefit offerings, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, paid time off, PSLF eligibility and more, please visit our website here.

We welcome and value diversity in our staff, including race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, educational attainment, disability, protected veteran status, and personal experience with the criminal justice system.

CSG is an Affirmative Action/Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. CSG participates in E-Verify.