SCA Public Policy Specialist Co-Op

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Job Description - Spring 2027 SCA Public Policy Specialist Co-Op (260006FW)

Job Description

Spring 2027 SCA Public Policy Specialist Co-Op - ( 260006FW )

Description

Description

The Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulation (OCA ) is a state agency within the Executive Office of Economic Development and is responsible for protecting consumers through advocacy and education. The Office of Consumer Affairs works to ensure that the businesses our agencies regulate treat all Massachusetts consumers fairly. The Division of Banks ("DOB"), Division of Insurance ("DOI"), Division of Occupational Licensure ("DOL"), Division of Standards ("DOS"), and Department of Telecommunications and Cable ("DTC") all fall under the OCA  umbrella and help us to fulfill our critical mission of building better businesses and smarter consumers.

OCA  as an regulatory agency also manages several statewide programs in accordance with applicable General Laws. These include the Home Improvement Contractor Programs, Lemon Law Arbitrator Program, Data Breach and the Massachusetts Do Not Call Program. OCA  is committed to creating and sustaining a work culture that is welcoming, inclusive, and mutually respectful to all its employees regardless of race, color, age, creed, religion, national origin, ethnicity, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, veteran or disability status.

We strive to reflect diversity in all facets and levels of our agency. OCA  values inclusiveness and diversity within their employee and management teams. Within our community we strive to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

The OCA  is committed to ensuring a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel respected, valued, and empowered to maximize their skills and talents to serve our citizens.

About the position:
The Public Policy Specialist Co-op (PPS) is responsible for conducting research regarding emerging public policy questions in the area of consumer protection and business regulation and offering recommended paths to decision makers. The PPS Co-op will become well versed in a wide range of topics in consumer protection and business regulation and with the composition, construction, and responsibilities of OCA  and its constituent agencies.

This role may be assigned or delegated at the discretion of leadership to units within the Office of Consumer Affairs and Business Regulations, the Division of Occupational Licensure, Division of Insurance, Division of Banks, Division of Standards, or the Department of Telecommunications and Cable for varied special projects or tasks.

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Specific duties include:

• Conduct research on public policy issues relevant to OCA , constituent agencies, impacted industries, consumer protections, and priorities set by Administration, Office, and agency leadership.
• Draft policy briefs, memos, background materials, talking points, and stakeholder communications, identification, and mapping.
• Attend and participate in internal and external engagement events, including but not limited to consumer outreach events and special projects, as scheduled.
• Help prepare and maintain internal policy trackers, briefing materials, and other resources.
• Collaborate with colleagues across legal, communications, business, research, and other teams on policy-related projects.
• Support and perform additional relevant duties as assigned.

Preferred qualifications:

• Strong research, analytical, and written communication skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex policy issues into clear, concise written materials.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated interest in public policy, government, regulatory affairs, or civic engagement.
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion when working with sensitive information.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs
• Interest in learning about consumer rights and business regulation and assisting businesses and consumers of the Commonwealth.

Benefits of this co-op:

We foster an environment of learning and empowerment. This is an opportunity to develop excellent communication skills, confidence and a professional demeanor through daily interaction with diverse industry stakeholders and consumers; acquisition of knowledge…