Policy Analyst

As a Policy Analyst at Provo City, you'll conduct thorough research and analysis on various policy issues including housing, transportation, and public services. You'll monitor legislation, develop briefs and reports, and deliver presentations on your findings, making significant contributions to the city’s legislative process.

To be eligible for the Policy Analyst position at Provo City, candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in Public or Business Administration or a closely related field, along with a minimum of two years’ experience in a similar role or equivalent job-related experience.

Provo City is committed to its employees, offering a competitive compensation package for the Policy Analyst role, including employer-paid health insurance, retirement plans, and various leaves. Additionally, there are perks like free access to local recreation facilities, which enhance work-life balance and employee well-being.

The selection process for the Policy Analyst role involves reviewing applications in the order they are received. The first screening will begin on April 17, 2025, so timely applications are encouraged. Selected candidates must also pass a drug screen and background check.

The Policy Analyst role is crucial for Provo City as it informs legislative decisions and supports effective governance. By analyzing data and researching policy issues, you’ll help shape initiatives that improve the quality of life for all residents, making Provo a welcoming and vibrant place to live.

In preparing for this question, think about a specific policy issue you worked on that aligns with Provo City’s focus areas such as housing or public safety. Discuss your research methodology, the data you collected, and the recommendations you provided based on your analysis.

Demonstrate your proactive approach by discussing the resources you use, such as legal databases, news outlets, and professional networks. Mention any relevant organizations you follow and how you evaluate the potential impact of new legislation on your work.

Highlight your proficiency with various data analysis tools you’ve utilized in previous positions. Explain how you use these tools to interpret complex data sets and generate insights that inform policy recommendations.

Share your methodology for drafting clear and concise policy briefs. Emphasize the importance of presenting evidence-based recommendations and how you tailor your writing to suit different audiences, such as city officials and community stakeholders.

Discuss your techniques for simplifying complex information, like using visual aids such as charts or infographics, and how you focus on clear language that resonates with diverse audiences. Give examples of past presentations or meetings where you’ve successfully communicated difficult topics.

Talk about a specific instance where you coordinated efforts between different teams or departments. Highlight your communication skills and how you facilitated discussions to ensure a shared understanding of objectives and outcomes.

Provide your perspective on current challenges, such as sustainability, affordability, or public safety. Back up your insights with examples and discuss potential policy approaches that could address these issues effectively.

Describe your approach to prioritization, perhaps using tools like project management software or prioritization frameworks. Discuss how you balance deadlines with the need for thorough analysis and stakeholder communication.

Share your vision of how a Policy Analyst contributes to the city’s objectives using research, analysis, and communication. Emphasize how your insights can drive policy decisions that reflect community priorities.

Discuss your openness to constructive criticism and your methods for addressing feedback. Explain how you view feedback as a significant opportunity for growth and improvement in your policy recommendations.