Policy Analyst - State Government Relations - Remote Opportunity!

About the Role

The role requires a high level of attention to detail, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. The Policy Analyst will be responsible for tracking and summarizing state legislation, regulations, and policy developments relevant to early childhood education and childcare. This involves analyzing complex information, identifying key trends and issues, and providing timely and accurate updates to stakeholders.

KinderCare's Government Affairs team is committed to expanding access to high-quality, affordable early childhood education for families across the United States. The team works closely with state and federal policymakers, advocating for policies that support the company's mission and goals. The Policy Analyst will play a critical role in supporting these efforts, providing research, analysis, and communications support as needed.

What You Will Do

• Monitor, track, and summarize state legislation, regulations, and policy developments relevant to early childhood education and childcare.
• Assist in preparing weekly policy updates, ensuring accuracy and timely distribution.
• Schedule and coordinate all internal State Quarterly Policy Calls and state advocacy meetings, including agenda, participant coordination, and materials preparation.
• Support the development of team reporting, including the Year-End Report, Monthly Board of Directors updates, and internal communication materials.
• Maintain organized systems for tracking legislative activity, advocacy actions, and team deliverables.
• Help cascade policy information, updates, and action items to KinderCare field leaders and internal partners.
• Support the drafting of internal and external communications, summaries, and briefing materials related to state policy activity.
• Attend 2-3 in-person advocacy days per year for professional development and to support on-site advocacy activities.
• Maintain strong working relationships with Government Affairs team members and internal business partners.
• Provide research and analysis to support the development of policy positions and advocacy strategies.
• Assist in the preparation of policy briefs, reports, and other materials as needed.

What We Are Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in public policy, political science, public administration, communications, or related field.
• Strong interest in public policy, government relations, or advocacy work.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy in tracking, documentation, and communication.
• Strong time-management skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and multiple tasks.
• Proficiency with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and email.
• Ability to travel up to 10-15% annually, including participation in 2-3 advocacy meetings per year.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to analyze complex information and develop effective solutions.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with stakeholders at all levels.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and deadlines.

Nice to Have

• Experience working in government relations, public policy, or a related field.
• Knowledge of early childhood education policy and issues.
• Familiarity with state and federal legislative processes.
• Experience with advocacy and lobbying efforts.
• Strong research and analytical skills, with the ability to analyze complex data and develop effective solutions.

Benefits and Perks

• Discounted child care benefits for employees and their families.
• Medical, dental, and vision benefits for employees and their families.
• Employee assistance programs, including mental health and personal growth support.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Access to a network of experienced professionals in the education and government relations fields.

• Develop a strong understanding of state government relations and policy development processes.
• Build a portfolio of writing samples, including policy briefs and analysis.
• Practice your analytical and problem-solving skills, using real-world scenarios and case studies.
• Prepare to discuss your experience working in fast-paced environments and managing competing priorities.
• Research KinderCare's mission and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the company's goals.
• Develop a strong network of professional contacts in the government relations and public policy fields.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with MS Office and other software applications.