Start Early (formerly known as the Ounce) is an energized, future-focused organization devoted to providing quality early learning and care across the country.

Our desire to close the opportunity gap and build more equitable early learning experiences for our youngest learners guides everything we do. As a leader in early learning and care, we scale our deep expertise across program, policy and research through partnerships across the country.

We are recruiting individuals who want to join us in this mission and share a commitment to our core values of appreciation & respect, empowerment, diversity, excellence, learning and communication.

Become part of our rewarding, mission-driven culture! We want our employees to feel empowered, motivated, energized, and passionate about the work they do!

To advance Start Early’s comprehensive policy agenda in Illinois, the Policy Analyst will conduct policy analysis, inform proposed policy solutions and related strategies, assist in developing plans of action for systems change, and promote organizational positions, both internally and externally.

Reporting to the Managing Director, you will:

• Conduct research and data analysis to inform organizational/department positions and strategies.
• Monitor, synthesize, and analyze city, state and federal policy developments and issues, including legislative and regulatory proposals.
• Provide coordination and support for internal and external meetings and projects/initiatives led by Start Early, including, but not limited to, developing and monitoring work plans, supporting internal and external colleagues in completing tasks on time, organizing meeting dates, producing meeting agendas, and tracking action steps.
• Participate and support the work of statewide and citywide policymaking committees related to the development of comprehensive prenatal to age 5 early childhood systems.
• Collaborate with Start Early staff and external partners as needed to advance organizational and/or department positions.
• Collaborate with Start Early staff and external partners to conceptualize, create, and distribute strategic documents for a variety of audiences
• Continuously deepen knowledge and understanding of early care and learning programs and services and related policy and systems issues, especially those most important to families with young children and professionals working in early childhood programs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Social Work, Early Childhood Education or a related field required; Master’s degree preferred.
• At least 1-3 years of public policy or related experience.
• Some knowledge of early childhood development and education, government programs and systems, related policy issues, and systems-building strategies.
• Knowledge of the policy-making process, including policy analysis skills.
• Ability to move from abstract concepts to practical implementation and use judgment to recommend approaches to policy issues and problems.
• Strong oral, written, and visual communication skills and demonstrated ability to articulate complex ideas, thoughts, and concepts clearly and effectively.
• Ability to effectively establish and maintain relationships with clients/colleagues and gain their trust and respect.
• Deep commitment to advancing diversity, racial equity, and inclusion into organizational routines and practice.
• Exceptional time management and organization skills.
• Comfort and experience in handling risk and uncertainty to move work forward.
• A sense of curiosity and ability to learn independently, seeking support when needed.
• Ability to work both independently and in teams within a highly collaborative environment.

We recognize that few candidates might meet every single piece of knowledge, experience, or education listed here. Research shows that women and people of color, among many other historically excluded groups, are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single qualification. Start Early is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your qualifications don’t perfectly align with everything in the job description, we still encourage you to apply!

Base Annual Salary: $67,125 - $72,000

We believe that all employees should be paid fairly and equitably. As of the time of this posting, this is the expected base annual salary range. The base annual salary will be based on a wide range of factors, including skills, qualifications, experience, as well as business needs and limitations.

Our generous benefits plan includes:

Comprehensive Health Plans, Commitment to Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, Holistic Wellness Program, Professional Development Program, 401k Contribution, Paid Volunteer Days, 6 months paid parental leave, and much more.

Start Early is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to our core values by creating an inclusive environment for all staff.