Research Specialist (Temporary/Full Time)

Research Specialist (Temporary/Full Time) with the North Carolina Association of Educators

The Position

The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) seeks a talented, dedicated, and experienced research specialist to provide public policy analysis that impacts NCAE members and students. In this role, you will be responsible for conducting in-depth research and analyzing legislative policies. The ideal candidate should possess strong analytical skills, an understanding of legislative processes, and the ability to communicate complex information effectively. The person in this position will report to the Associate Executive Director as a member of the Government Relations Team.

About North Carolina Association of Educators

The North Carolina Association of Educators (NCAE) is building a movement to transform and expand public education in our state to ensure all students have access to quality public education that provides them with an opportunity to meet their full potential.

We are on the cusp of restoring North Carolina as a national leader in education policy and are making

moves from the Sandhills to the Mountains to win the schools our students deserve.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES:

Legislative Research/Policy Analysis:

• Monitor, analyze, and evaluate proposed legislation and policy changes at local, state levels, and other government agencies for impacts on public education, NCAE members, and public schools’ students.

• Analyze and develop reports on education public policy in the State of North Carolina.
• Utilize research and data to help NCAE leadership make decisions and to make compelling arguments to state policymakers for sound public education, budget, health, and pension policies.

• Stay informed about political developments and policy trends that impact the organization's priorities.
• Provide timely and accurate policy analyses to support decision-making.
• Collaborate with internal teams to assess the practical implications of legislative changes.

• Develop a deep level of understanding of the State Health Plan and Retirement System and legislation that might impact those programs. Help staff and members navigate those changes.
• Develop engaging written and visual products based on research analysis that can be used in lobbying, advocacy, and public communications campaigns.
• Monitor and collect data on education policy. Be the “go to” source for education data within the organization.

Advocacy Strategy:

• Coordinate with Government Relations team to prepare members to lobby their respective elected officials and policy makers to implement effective grassroots strategies to advance NCAE’s legislative agenda and policy priorities.
• Coordinate with legal and communications teams to align advocacy efforts with NCAE’s messaging.
• Works as the liaison to the Government Relations Commission in coordination with the Deputy Director of Community and Political Organizing.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least 1-2 years of experience in research, public policy, or education. Experience in North Carolina legislative and public policy preferred.
• Experience using policy data for strategic communications.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• A deep commitment to equity, inclusion, and anti-racism.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and project manage, prioritize, and execute to meet frequent and tight deadlines with keen attention to detail.
• A track record as an excellent collaborator and team player.
• A willingness to work nights and weekends when needed.
• Familiarity with public education and public education issues.
• Familiarity with the legislative process. Experience working with the North Carolina General Assembly preferred.

Education: Bachelor's degree in Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field.

Location: Position is based at NCAE headquarters in Raleigh.

Compensation: This is a temporary Professional Staff Step 0 position of the NCAE/NCSO staff union contract with an annual salary of $61,681.00 plus benefits.

How to Apply:

Required Materials: Please submit your resume, at least 3 references, cover letter and a short writing sample or problem of practice that demonstrates skills relevant to this role to https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=59fc7f52-c895-4bef-90c4-acedc2089c6b&ccId=19000101_000001&type=JS&lang=en_US

Benefits:

• Medical, dental and vision coverage available
• Employer provided FSA/HRA monies
• Cell phone and internet reimbursement
• Mileage reimbursement for work-related travel
• 401k Plan
• Pension Plan (if a temp. position-not eligible until 1/1 or 7/1 after 1 year of service)
• Paid holidays, employer paid life and LTD coverage, voluntary life insurance
• A generous personal, sick, and annual leave policy

NCAE is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender, gender expression,

gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or status as a protected.

Current and former/retired NCAE members and applicants committed to a strong public educators’ association who meet many, but not all, of the qualifications are encouraged to apply.