Senior Policy Advisor - Non-Classified

Senior Policy Associate

Help shape the future of education policy in Colorado. The Colorado Department of Education (CDE) is looking for a Senior Policy Associate who can bring deep expertise in education policy to complex legislative and implementation work. You'll collaborate across the agency and with key partners to analyze legislation, develop policy solutions, coordinate fiscal notes, and help turn policy into effective action for Colorado's schools and students.

This position is full-time, state-funded (funding is contingent upon availability and may end at any time), and eligible for a hybrid work environment. Extended hours during the evening or the weekend may be required by business needs. Commuting to the CDE buildings is required. A remote (home) office is required. Required to report to the work location per business needs.

The senior policy associate applies knowledge of statutory, legislative, procedural, and programmatic content to support the policy implementation and development work of the Colorado Department of Education and the State Board of Education. The position works collaboratively with the other members of CDE's Policy Team–including the principal policy advisor and legislative liaison–to advance the department's legislative and policy priorities. The position supports the department and board during the legislative session by leading and coordinating the agency's fiscal note process, analyzing proposed legislation, and summarizing implementation considerations and policy feedback.

The position also supports timely, accurate, and coordinated communication with agency leadership, the State Board Office, Legislative Council Staff, legislators, and internal and external stakeholders. Outside the legislative session, the position facilitates cross-unit collaboration among CDE staff to develop and implement education legislation and policies, including state board rule making.

The position must understand the relationship among proposed legislation, state budget conditions, agency appropriations, program funding, staffing capacity, and implementation requirements.

Major duties and responsibilities include:

• Policy Development, Analysis, and Implementation
• Legislative Affairs and Government Relations
• Reporting, Accountability, and Project Management
• Training and Stakeholder Support
• Other Duties

Minimum education and experience requirements include:

• A combination of education and professional experience totaling nine (9) years.
• Five (5) years of professional experience developing and/or implementing Colorado education policy.

Qualifications and conditions include:

• Legislative Knowledge
• Statutory Knowledge
• Budget Knowledge and Experience
• Communication
• Relationship-Building
• Time Management
• Supportive Project Coordination
• Adaptability
• Judgment and Discretion

Complete applications must include:

• Completed Online Application
• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Transcript (if using education to meet MQs)