POLICY ANALYST 21241

6/1/90 B

This is the first class in a series that conduct advanced analyses and evaluations and develop agency and state policies, procedures, regulatory and legislative proposals. Positions in this class review and prepare policy recommendations, economic and operational impact assessments, and analyses of existing and proposed local, state and federal legislation and regulations. Positions may function as the single position or may be assigned to a centralized policy analysis and development unit engaged in agency-wide analyses. This class is distinguished from the Policy Analyst Senior class by its responsibility for performing analyses and evaluations rather than having responsibility as the single charge position for the policy, legislative, and public relations functions or supervising Policy Analysts and other professional staff.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty by drafting position papers, agency and state policies, regulations and legislation; conducting technical and policy analyses of proposed or pending legislation and regulations which could affect any of the programs in the agency; and by providing policy and technical assistance in the evaluation and development of new programs. Serves as liaison with federal, state and local agencies, legislative bodies, and client groups by answering questions regarding policies, procedures, regulations and legislation; and coordinating various resources, environmental or community objectives. Designs and conducts research related to agency programs and activities; prepares, reviews, and analyzes impact statements; and researches, drafts and/or reviews responses prepared on behalf of the agency head, cabinet secretary or other state official. Positions may function as experts in various aspects of agency policy administration or in the development of agency regulations and legislation. Some positions coordinate the review of agency policies, regulations and code modifications with legal staff, boards, other agencies, regulated entities and interest groups in accordance with administrative and regulatory procedural requirements prior to publishing the final version.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor.

Supervision Received: Receives general direction from an agency head, other agency executive management position or Policy and Planning Supervisor, Manager or Director.

Scope: Positions in this class affect agency-wide operational, administrative and legislative activities and services which affect the agency and its clientele.

Impact of Actions: The impact of decisions made by position in this class is serious due to the influence upon the long-term interest of the Commonwealth and the agency. Effective job performance results in accurate analyses and sound recommendations which serve as the basis for implementing policies and procedures. Errors could result in the development of policies which inhibit the achievement of agency goals or delivery of services.

Personal Contacts: Frequent internal and external contacts with public officials from federal and local government agencies; legal staff; agency staff members; research institution staffs; special interest groups; and private industry representatives to discuss agency programs and operations which may also affect service to the public.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of policy analysis, legislative practices, research and evaluation techniques, and organizational components and services. Working knowledge of management techniques.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to conduct and report analyses; to conduct independent research; to analyze, interpret and assess the impact of regulations, procedures, legislative proposals and mandates; to communicate effectively orally and in writing; to draft legislation, regulations and policy statements; and to serve as liaison to work with, diverse groups of people.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: None.

Education or Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with major course work in public or business administration or a related field.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience involving analytical, project management or related work.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledges and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in June, 1990, as a result of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program. This class replaces Policy Analyst Senior, Legislative Analyst and State Tax Policy Analyst A classes.