Policy Analyst – Government Transparency
Policy Analyst – Government Transparency Full-time OMB Watch http://www.ombwatch.org/
OMB Watch seeks a Policy Analyst to undertake a wide range of activities in support of our work to bring greater transparency and accountability to the way the federal government operates. OMB Watch initiated a campaign that resulted in more than 300 organizations and individuals supporting recommendations to the Obama administration on strengthening the public's right to know (see http://www.ombwatch.org/renewinggovernment). The Policy Analyst will work as part of a team to pursue these policy and technology recommendations to move government into the 21st century and to change the climate within federal agencies so as to promote disclosure.
The Policy Analyst will report to the Director of Federal Information Policy.
General Responsibilities:
• Research – gather information about implementation of government disclosure policies, such as the Open Government Directive, "sensitive but unclassified" policies, and the Freedom of Information Act, from key government agencies.
• Legislative Issues – track and analyze national and state legislation dealing with access to government information; assist in advocacy efforts, including coordination and dissemination of action alerts; and lobby Congress.
• Advocacy – pursue actions to promote policy and programmatic changes that are intended to make government more open, transparent, and accountable.
• Writing and Editing – write articles for our website, articles for our biweekly e-newsletter (The Watcher), posts for our blog (The Fine Print), reports dealing with information policy issues, and other materials as assigned.
• Organize Events – plan and organize events around the country on government transparency; work with attendees, arrange meeting spaces, and draft agendas.
• Website Content Maintenance – manage content for the Government Openness section of the OMB Watch website.
• Other Duties – complete other duties as assigned.
Background and Skills of Candidate
In addition to a strong work ethic and demonstrated interest in policies promoting an open government, candidates should have 1-3 years experience in information policy or related policy field and/or an advanced degree in public policy or similar area. Familiarity with the legislative and regulatory processes would be preferred. Understanding the use and deployment of interactive technologies for public disclosure is a strong plus. A demonstrated commitment to social justice and core OMB Watch values is essential.
Candidates also must have:
• Outstanding organizational skills with strong attention to detail;
• The ability to coordinate numerous responsibilities and meet deadlines;
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to excel in a collaborative writing environment;
• Comfort with taking direction and constructive criticism while also demonstrating initiative and the ability to work independently; and
• Experience with Microsoft Office tools.
It would be preferred if candidates:
• Have an advanced degree in public policy or related field;
• Have experience with HTML, website maintenance, and/or use of wikis; and
• Demonstrated policy analysis and advocacy skills, including working in coalitions.
About OMB Watch
OMB Watch is a nonprofit government watchdog organization dedicated to promoting government accountability, citizen participation in public policy decisions, and the use of fiscal and regulatory policy to serve the public interest. OMB Watch believes that government transparency, fostered through the use of interactive technologies, is a powerful tool for achieving our mission. For more information, see http://www.ombwatch.org.
How to Apply
Please submit a cover letter, resume, and brief writing sample (2-5 pages) to: ombwatch@ombwatch.org, Subject: Policy Analyst – Government Transparency. You can also mail your application materials to: OMB Watch, Policy Analyst – Government Transparency, 1742 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009.
Salary
$30,000 to $35,000, depending on experience and education; comprehensive benefits.
OMB Watch is an equal opportunity employer.
Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
Posts
