The salary range is based on several factors, including, but not limited to, overall experience, relevant experience, education level, certifications, applicable skills, and expertise.

About Urban Pathways

Since 1975, Urban Pathways has engaged New York City’s most vulnerable residents, people on the streets or in areas unfit for human habitation, “lighting the path home, one person at a time.” Urban Pathways is a catalyst for transformative change in the lives of unhoused adults, empowering them to discover their inherent strengths and abilities. We provide essential support and foster an environment where individuals can redefine their narratives and become their best selves.

Job Summary

Reporting to the Director of Policy, the Policy Analyst manages advocacy campaign planning and activities, and conducts research to advance legislative and budget priorities.

Responsibilities

Program/Facilities

1. Assists the Director of Policy to manage the organization’s participation in campaigns, including acting as lead organizational representative on assigned campaigns.
2. Creates action plans for advocacy campaigns that the organization is leading and manages campaign activities.
3. Facilitates participation in campaigns by Consumer Advocates.
4. Schedules meetings and educational site visits with elected officials, and coordinates and prepares appropriate participation by Urban Pathways staff and consumers.
5. Acts as organizational representative in external meetings with coalitions, community groups, elected officials, and government partners.
6. Conducts research and gathers data on relevant topics, including internal information gathering. 
7. Drafts white papers and policy memos to further advocacy campaigns and to detail organizational legislative and budget priorities.
8. Coordinates policy communication strategies with Urban Pathways Marketing and Public Relations Manager and other Communications staff.
9. Writes testimony for City Council and State Legislature hearings and presents testimony, as needed.
10. Facilitates frontline staff participation in advocacy, including helping staff to draft testimony and remarks, and leading committee meetings and educational workshops on advocacy.
11. Assists with coordinating and facilitating Consumer Advocacy Program.

Administrative

Community Relations

Communication

1. Communicates verbally and in writing in a professional manner at all times.
2. Facilitates/attends staff meetings, training, and supervisory sessions, as required.
3. Responds to all communications including telephone, email and other oral and written inquiries in a timely manner.

Performs all other duties as assigned and as required.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Master’s degree in Public Policy, Social Work, or related field required.
• Minimum of one year of experience in policy, advocacy, or campaign work.

• Knowledge of New York City and State political processes, including legislative and budget.

• Experience in government/non-profit contracting, local government procurement, and/or non-profit law required.
• Knowledge of policy issues in New York City’s human services field, as well as a firm understanding of City State and Federal government and legislative processes preferred.

• Experience with homeless, mentally-ill and substance abuse population preferred.

Skills

• Strong policy analysis and critical thinking skills.
• Ability to distill complex ideas into clear, easy to understand communications.
• Excellent research and writing skills.
• Excellent computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Office (e.g. Word, Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, etc.)
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as both part of a team and independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Group facilitation skills preferred.

• Flexibility in schedule required to occasionally work evening and weekend hours. Occasional travel to Albany and Washington D.C. required.
• Comfortable with travel by public transportation throughout New York City. 
• Commitment to Urban Pathways’ mission and to uplifting the voices of people with lived experiences of homelessness and mental health disorders.

Other

• Required to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays and evenings.
• Valid driver’s license with clean driving record a plus.

Physical Capabilities

• All programs require fieldwork, home visits, client escorts, and use of public transportation.
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, stoop, push, pull, lift (up to 25 lbs.), type, write, read, speak, see, and hear.

Urban Pathways offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of our employees. 

These benefits include:

• Healthcare Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans to keep you and your family in good health.
• Retirement Savings: A 403(b) plan and a 401(a) with employer annual contribution to help you plan for a secure financial future.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development to enhance your skills and advance your career.
• Flexible Work Arrangements: Work-life balance is important to us, and we offer flexible work arrangements to accommodate your needs.
• Wellness Programs: Employee wellness programs, including fitness initiatives and mental health support.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal or work-related issues.
• Employee Recognition: Recognition programs to celebrate and reward outstanding contributions.