Job Application for Sr. Policy Analyst at ZERO TO THREE

New

ABOUT ZERO TO THREE

Founded in 1977, ZERO TO THREE works to ensure that babies and toddlers benefit from the early connections that are critical to their well-being and development. Our mission is to ensure that all babies and toddlers have a strong start in life. At ZERO TO THREE, we envision a society with the knowledge and will to support all infants and toddlers in reaching their full potential. Our Core Values Statement: We believe that how we do our work is as important as what we do. To learn more about ZERO TO THREE, please visit our website at zerotothree.org.

SUMMARY

The Policy Center at ZERO TO THREE, a nonpartisan, research-based resource for policymakers and advocates focused on the unique developmental needs of infants and toddlers, is seeking a Sr. Policy Analyst to develop and implement ZERO TO THREE’s federal policy agenda and strategy on a range of issues, with lead responsibility for child welfare issues and infant and early childhood mental health (IECMH). The Sr. Policy Analyst will represent ZERO TO THREE in Congressional and Administration meetings; serve as a leading voice within coalitions; develop and review a variety of written policy, advocacy, and legislative products; monitor and provide input on relevant federal legislation and proposed rules; organize Capitol Hill briefings and other events; and work closely with government relations consultants to advance ZERO TO THREE’s policy priorities and strategy. This position contributes to the overall work of the Government Relations and Advocacy Team and the Policy Center, reporting to the Legislative Director and working in close collaboration across the team and organization. The successful candidate must live in the DC metropolitan area but is not required to work from ZERO TO THREE’s Washington, DC office.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership

The Sr. Policy Analyst will work closely with the Legislative Director and the Sr. Director of Government Relations and Advocacy to develop and implement strategies to advance ZERO TO THREE’s federal policy agenda, with a focus on child welfare issues and mental health (including perinatal, infant, and early childhood mental health). The Sr. Policy Analyst will actively identify and share opportunities for ZERO TO THREE to expand its policy impact and partnerships. The Sr. Policy Analyst will work collaboratively across the organization, particularly across the Government Relations and Advocacy Team and with the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health and Safe Babies teams, to ensure thoughtful integration and alignment of ZERO TO THREE’s policy expertise into its federal policy agenda.

Communication and Collaboration

The Sr. Policy Analyst will build and maintain strategic and productive relationships with Congressional staff, relevant stakeholders, and coalition partners, and will provide exceptional technical assistance to federal policymakers and staff, including responding to inquiries for input on legislative language, report language, and comments on legislation and regulations. The Sr. Policy Analyst will also participate in the overall work of the Government Relations and Advocacy Team, such as submitting appropriations forms, analyzing and providing recommendations for sign on letters and bill endorsements, and tracking and communicating legislative work.

The Sr. Policy Analyst will join forces with the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Team, Safe Babies Team, teammates, and colleagues to represent ZERO TO THREE and, in coordination with the Communications Team and the Director of Policy Research, will have the ability to effectively communicate policy priorities, and succinctly and effectively write policy briefs, testimony, report language, blog posts, updates for an electronic newsletter, and other written materials for a variety of audiences, including Congress, the Administration, and advocates. This person will also act as an engaged and thoughtful external voice and representative for ZERO TO THREE, able to leverage their knowledge and experience to amplify the reach and impact of ZERO TO THREE’s work through presentations at Congressional briefings and hearings, conferences, and meetings. They will coordinate with ZERO TO THREE colleagues to organize briefings, webinars, meetings, conference calls and other events for policymakers and other stakeholders, will contribute to grant proposals and reports to funders, and work with Communications staff and the Policy Center team to prepare responses to time sensitive media opportunities.

Policy Expertise, Policy Analysis, and Political Acumen

The Sr. Policy Analyst will demonstrate a strong knowledge and understanding of the child welfare and court systems and/or mental health policy issues (including substance use issues), preferably including in relation to perinatal, infant, and early childhood development and the effects of trauma. They will have a proven ability providing real-time analysis and assessment of the policy and political landscape, will have an understanding of federal policy dynamics and key players, and will be prepared to serve as a proactive resource to federal policymakers and coalition partners. The Sr. Policy Analyst must be able to provide informed insights based on thorough equity-centered analysis, articulate the impact of proposed and existing federal legislation, regulations, and other activities of federal agencies and of initiatives of other national organizations, and recommend appropriate actions to internal stakeholders. They will be fluent and flexible in crafting relevant positions and appropriate strategies, and in identifying legislative champions and opportunities, as the political landscape shifts and new issues, opportunities, and challenges emerge.

The Sr. Policy Analyst will work with the Safe Babies Team and Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Team to ensure legislative, regulatory, and other policy positions and priorities fully reflect ZERO TO THREE’s values and commitment to racial equity, are grounded in the science of early childhood development, and reflect the Policy Center’s theory of change, with particular attention to input from families, early childhood professionals, and community partners.

The Sr. Policy Analyst will perform other duties as assigned to ensure the efficient and effective functioning of the departments.

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

Minimum of 4-6 years relevant work experience; Capitol Hill experience strongly preferred
Knowledge of mental health policy issues, with knowledge of perinatal, infant, and early childhood mental health preferred.
Knowledge of child welfare policy issues, with knowledge of integrated early childhood systems, the intersection with poverty, and prevention strategies preferred.
Knowledge of legislative and regulatory processes
Skilled in research and policy analysis, including ability to read, analyze, and evaluate a wide range of complex documents and policy proposals and assess the potential impact on infants and toddlers
Ability to operationalize equity-centered practices in the development and execution of policy
Ability to work effectively in culturally diverse environments, and understanding of how different forms of oppression operate on interpersonal, institutional and structural levels
Exceptional reasoning, problem-solving, and strategic thinking skills
Strong interpersonal skills able to develop and build strong relationships with stakeholders
Excellent oral and written communication skills, including editing and proofreading, with the ability to connect with a variety of audiences with different needs and levels of understanding
Experience participating in coalition groups and building relationships with relevant stakeholders
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team
Ability to work in concert with a team to devise strategies for multiple issue areas involving multiple Congressional Committees and Executive Branch agencies
Strong organizational and time management skills and the ability to manage multiple competing responsibilities efficiently and effectively
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to travel, including occasional overnight stays

EDUCATION

Bachelor’s degree in public policy, social work, psychology, early childhood education, or a related field; Masters degree preferred; relevant experience will be considered in lieu of higher education

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

This position's salary is estimated to be low $80,000s to low $90,000s depending on experience, geo-location, budget, and other comparable and similarly scoped internal positions. In addition to salary, ZERO TO THREE offers a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, HRA, retirement contributions, generous leave benefits and more.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

While performing the responsibilities of the job, the employee is frequently required to use finger dexterity and sufficient hand dexterity to use a computer keyboard and be capable of reading a computer screen. Also, they may need to remain seated for extended periods, can perform repetitive motions, and reach for objects. An employee is frequently required to hold a writing instrument, communicate verbally, and hear well enough to detect nuances and receive detailed information. They may be required to grasp objects, push, and pull objects, bend, stand, walk, squat, or kneel. Vision abilities required by this job include close vision for data preparation or analysis, and expansive reading. May need to lift up to 30 pounds.

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES

Encourages and practices critical thinking
Is self-reflective and empathic
Recognizes the influence of workplace relationships on outcomes and results
Maintains a respectful and accepting approach to others
Awareness of the influence of the larger context on individual behavior
Collaboratively and creatively supports the work efforts of colleagues at all levels and in all areas of the organization

WORKING CONDITIONS

The work conditions described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing this job. Depending on work location, the incumbent will typically work indoors in a heated and air-conditioned office, with a mixture of natural, incandescent, and fluorescent light with low to moderate noise levels or be subject to working conditions conducive to a home environment. When travel is expected, the incumbent will be exposed to outside environmental conditions during those times.

ZERO TO THREE is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer of Minorities, Women, Protected Veterans, and Individuals with Disabilities. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or national origin.

Due to the high volume of applications, we are not able to provide individual feedback to candidates regarding the status of their application. If selected to move forward in the process, someone from the hiring team will contact you regarding next steps.

Create a Job Alert

Interested in building your career at ZERO TO THREE? Get future opportunities sent straight to your email.

First Name

Last Name

Country

Phone

Resume/CV*

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

Cover Letter*

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

Street Address

City

State

Select...

Zip Code

Are you legally authorized to work in the United States?

Select...

Will you now or in the future require sponsorship to work in the United States?

Select...

Please indicate the highest level of education received.

Select...

School

Discipline

Please indicate your years of relevant experience to the position.

Select...

Which of the following do you have experience with? *

Mental health policy creation, analysis, advocacy, and/or providing direct services.

Child welfare policy creation, analysis, advocacy, and/or providing direct services.

Experience working on Capitol Hill.

Experience working in the U.S. Executive Branch.

None.

Select all that apply.

Do you have experience providing technical assistance to local, state, or federal government?

Select...

Do you have knowledge of federal legislative and regulatory processes?

Select...

Do you have experience serving in a leadership position within a coalition, alliance, or collaborative network?

Select...

Please indicate if you have knowledge/experience in the following: (Check all that apply) *

Knowledge of perinatal and/or childhood mental health.

Knowledge of child welfare system, specifically issues pertaining to infants and toddlers.

Capitol Hill or Administration experience.

When can you report to work?

Are you located in the Washington, DC area or surrounding areas or willing to relocate?

Select...

Desired Salary (please use a numerical value)

Employer Name

Employer contact information is required. Please begin with the most recent employer.

Supervisor Name

Supervisor Email

Supervisor Phone Number

Reason for Leaving

Employer Two Name

Employer Two: Supervisor Name

Are you able to successfully perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodations?

Select...

LinkedIn Profile

Are you a previous ZERO TO THREE employee?

Select...

If so, please indicate dates and departments

How were your referred to ZTT?

Select...

If applicable, employee name

Please indicate the employment type desired.

Select...

Writing Sample: Please submit a  2–3-page writing sample reflecting an analysis, recommendation, research, or public communication ideally pertaining to child welfare and/or mental health policy issues, or another closely related policy issue.  *

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

Please attach below.

Certification: I understand that completing this application is not an offer or guarantee of my employment. I further understand that any employment I might be offered by ZERO TO THREE ("ZTT") is at-will and that either I or ZTT can terminate that employment at any time with or without notice for any or no reason, and that no agreement to the contrary will be recognized by ZTT unless made in writing and signed by its Executive Director. I certify that all statements contained within this application are true and complete to the best of my knowledge and I understand that knowingly misrepresenting or omitting facts called for herein will be sufficient cause of cancellation of consideration of employment or dismissal from ZTT's service if I have been employed. I authorize ZTT to investigate all information contained in this application, and I authorize all persons, institutions, organizations, and companies to furnish all pertinent information known to them about me. I further authorize ZTT to conduct a criminal background check, child protective services check, education verification, drug screen and any other requirements imposed by specific contracts or government agencies. If I am offered employment by ZTT, I understand that I will be required to complete an orientation and adjustment period of employment. I further understand that if I work in a particular State or on a specific contract, I may be required to sign an Employee Assurance of Confidentiality, an Authorization for Release of Information, a Warning Notice Regarding Data Confidentiality, and other Statements and that any and all information obtained about me may be released to such clients. I further agree and understand that if I am offered employment by ZTT, upon separation of employment, I will return to ZTT all property issued to me or will allow the value of the same to be deducted from my wages, as permitted by law.

Select...

Voluntary Self-Identification

For government reporting purposes, we ask candidates to respond to the below self-identification survey. Completion of the form is entirely voluntary. Whatever your decision, it will not be considered in the hiring process or thereafter. Any information that you do provide will be recorded and maintained in a confidential file.

As set forth in ZERO TO THREE’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law.

Gender

Select...

Are you Hispanic/Latino?

Select...

Race & Ethnicity Definitions

If you believe you belong to any of the categories of protected veterans listed below, please indicate by making the appropriate selection. As a government contractor subject to the Vietnam Era Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA), we request this information in order to measure the effectiveness of the outreach and positive recruitment efforts we undertake pursuant to VEVRAA. Classification of protected categories is as follows:

A "disabled veteran" is one of the following: a veteran of the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service who is entitled to compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs; or a person who was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disability.

A "recently separated veteran" means any veteran during the three-year period beginning on the date of such veteran's discharge or release from active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval, or air service.

An "active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran" means a veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service during a war, or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge has been authorized under the laws administered by the Department of Defense.

An "Armed forces service medal veteran" means a veteran who, while serving on active duty in the U.S. military, ground, naval or air service, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded pursuant to Executive Order 12985.

Veteran Status

Select...

Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability

Form CC-305

Page 1 of 1

OMB Control Number 1250-0005

Expires 04/30/2026

Why are you being asked to complete this form?

We are a federal contractor or subcontractor. The law requires us to provide equal employment opportunity to qualified people with disabilities. We have a goal of having at least 7% of our workers as people with disabilities. The law says we must measure our progress towards this goal. To do this, we must ask applicants and employees if they have a disability or have ever had one. People can become disabled, so we need to ask this question at least every five years.

Completing this form is voluntary, and we hope that you will choose to do so. Your answer is confidential. No one who makes hiring decisions will see it. Your decision to complete the form and your answer will not harm you in any way. If you want to learn more about the law or this form, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) website at www.dol.gov/ofccp.

How do you know if you have a disability?

A disability is a condition that substantially limits one or more of your “major life activities.” If you have or have ever had such a condition, you are a person with a disability. Disabilities include, but are not limited to:

Alcohol or other substance use disorder (not currently using drugs illegally)
Autoimmune disorder, for example, lupus, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, HIV/AIDS
Blind or low vision
Cancer (past or present)
Cardiovascular or heart disease
Celiac disease
Cerebral palsy
Deaf or serious difficulty hearing
Diabetes
Disfigurement, for example, disfigurement caused by burns, wounds, accidents, or congenital disorders
Epilepsy or other seizure disorder
Gastrointestinal disorders, for example, Crohn's Disease, irritable bowel syndrome
Intellectual or developmental disability
Mental health conditions, for example, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD
Missing limbs or partially missing limbs
Mobility impairment, benefiting from the use of a wheelchair, scooter, walker, leg brace(s) and/or other supports
Nervous system condition, for example, migraine headaches, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis (MS)
Neurodivergence, for example, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, dyspraxia, other learning disabilities
Partial or complete paralysis (any cause)
Pulmonary or respiratory conditions, for example, tuberculosis, asthma, emphysema
Short stature (dwarfism)
Traumatic brain injury

Disability Status

Select...

PUBLIC BURDEN STATEMENT: According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. This survey should take about 5 minutes to complete.

Sr. Policy Analyst

ABOUT ZERO TO THREE

SUMMARY

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

ESSENTIAL SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

EDUCATION

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

ESSENTIAL QUALITIES

WORKING CONDITIONS

Apply for this job

Voluntary Self-Identification

Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability