About PPA

Public Policy Associates (PPA) provides clients with the evaluation, research, and strategic consultation they need to make smart public policy decisions that improve lives, enrich communities, and strengthen institutions. We believe that policies and programs should be informed by many voices, especially the people most affected. It is our goal to combine academic rigor with authentic community engagement to provide a complete picture.

Our focus areas are early childhood, talent and economic development (including K-12 and postsecondary education), healthy communities (food systems, housing, etc.), and justice. We work in Michigan and nationally.

Across our projects, we do a wide range of activities, such as: talking to community members about their program experiences, examining federal and state datasets, conducting scans of policies across states, and translating research into actionable recommendations for organization leaders.

Work Environment

PPA blends serious work with a friendly, supportive work environment. We work hard because we know this work matters. We also recognize the importance of flexibility, fun, and comradery in bringing our best selves to the job. This includes respecting staff members as individuals and valuing their strengths, thoughts, and experience. If you would like to work with a bunch of smart, interesting, and family-oriented people, PPA might be the place for you!

This position is eligible for 100% remote work within the U.S., although Michigan residence is preferred for this position. Occasional travel to Lansing, Michigan (our office location) is required, and other travel within the U.S. may also be required.

Position Overview

We are seeking to add a full-time Policy Associate to our team. This entry-level position will contribute to multiple projects and support business development activities, such as proposal preparation. This includes assisting in delivering quality work products and services for coalitions and other collaboratives, including online research, policy agenda development and documentation, working group facilitation, outreach support, presentation slides, written analysis and summaries, and other similar activities as needed. This is done by identifying relevant information, working effectively with others toward strategic goals, scheduling and preparing for meetings, and writing deliverables that move the work forward.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Assisting on projects that monitor, support, and develop local, state, and national policies
  • Conducting reviews of literature and other written policy materials and policy options
  • Analyzing policy options and writing policy summaries of legislative and budget-focused documents
  • Scheduling meetings and preparing meeting agendas for groups with high-level participants
  • Working closely with group chairs on agenda-setting
  • Documenting decisions, sources, and other information for reference and mutual accountability
  • Assisting in planning advocacy day and other engagement activities
  • Contributing to the writing of policy agendas and strategic planning
  • Collaborating in meetings with clients, their staff and partners, and decision makers
  • Preparing and delivering presentations

In addition to project-specific work, the Policy Associate is expected to:

  • Contribute to new business development
  • Develop expertise in policy areas and engage in continuous professional development
  • Contribute ideas for project processes and fulfill PPA’s culture and equity statements
  • Maintain high-quality standards for all work products and interactions
  • Thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
  • Provide other project support as assigned

This position reports to the Chief Strategy Officer. For specific project-related items, this position reports to relevant project managers.

Experience, Knowledge, Skills

Education and Experience

A bachelor’s degree is required, and an advanced degree is preferred in public policy or a related discipline, with a minimum of three years of relevant work experience, such as serving as legislative staff.

Technical Skills

  • Deep knowledge of Michigan and federal policymaking and the legislative process
  • Ability to communicate information to clients, policymakers, advocates, and the media
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
  • Experience with SharePoint and Teams preferred
  • Experience using data visualization tools, including Tableau

Attributes

  • Ability to work productively without close supervision and work constructively with others
  • Ability to work on multiple projects and manage time well
  • Problem-solving skills
  • Excellent analytical, writing, and oral communication skills 
  • Ability to represent PPA in dealings with outside individuals and organizations
  • Willingness to work extra time when needed to meet deadlines
  • Ability to travel

Compensation

PPA offers a full compensation package, including competitive wages, paid leave, professional development, health and dental insurance, 401K, and more!

Application

To apply, submit the following materials to admin@publicpolicy.com with the subject line “Policy Associate Application – [your last name]”: (1) cover letter, (2) PPA application form, (3) resume, and (4) writing sample of no more than 10 pages. Incomplete submissions may not be considered.

PPA is an equal opportunity employer. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.