Policy Research Analyst for Law Enforcement Oversight

Minimum Qualifications
Education and/or Equivalent Experience:

• Completion of a Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with major coursework in a relevant field, along with three (3) years of experience in a related area, including one (1) year focused on conducting and presenting intricate legal and policy research.
• A Master's degree from an accredited institution in a pertinent field may substitute for up to one (1) year of the required experience.

• No specific licenses or certifications required.

Notes to Applicants:
This role is heavily focused on research and writing, necessitating the ability to convey complex findings to non-technical audiences. The selected candidates will collaborate with the Policy & Research Division of the Office of Police Oversight (OPO). Analysts in this position leverage their expertise in policy research and analytical methodologies to evaluate the current policies, practices, and training of the Austin Police Department, providing informed recommendations for enhancements. They will regularly communicate findings and suggestions to both internal and external stakeholders and must be adept at presenting intricate information in various formats to diverse audiences. Additionally, they should be prepared to address inquiries related to the information shared.

The mission of OPO is to ensure impartial oversight of the Austin Police Department's conduct, practices, and policies, enhancing accountability, increasing transparency for the public, and fostering sustainable partnerships within the community. Addressing concerns or complaints regarding potential police misconduct is essential, ensuring they are heard, investigated, and resolved. At OPO, our efforts are dedicated to cultivating an atmosphere of earned trust between the community and the police department.

When completing the City of Austin employment application:
The City of Austin employment application is an official document; incomplete applications will not be considered. It is crucial that your application accurately reflects your entire work history.

• Detail all previous employment relevant to your qualifications.
• A comprehensive employment application is necessary for evaluating your qualifications and will influence salary considerations if selected. Include job titles and employment dates for all positions considered, along with specific experiences for each role, detailing job duties and responsibilities.

If selected as a top candidate:

• Verification of your educational background (which may include high school graduation or GED, undergraduate and/or graduate degrees) will be required. Proof of education from an accredited institution must be provided.
• If you are a military member or veteran, a copy of your DD-214 will be required prior to confirming a start date.

Assessment:
An assessment will be part of the interview process. Candidates will be expected to submit a professional writing sample from previous employment prior to first-round interviews. The writing sample must represent the candidate's individual work; group projects will not be accepted. Candidates who do not complete this assessment will not progress in the hiring process.

Successful candidates must pass a Criminal Justice Information Systems (CJIS) fingerprint-based background check and maintain CJIS eligibility.

Preferred Qualifications
Preferred Experience:

• Proven experience in conducting legal research and analyses involving case law, statutes, and local regulations to inform recommendations.
• Proficient in utilizing mixed methods research designs.
• Experience in civilian oversight of law enforcement.
• Experience in local government operations.
• Experience collaborating on cross-functional teams to develop and implement policy initiatives.
• Prior experience in developing, implementing, and reporting on equity-focused policy projects.

Duties, Functions, and Responsibilities:
Essential duties and functions, pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following. Other related duties may be assigned:

• Monitor, analyze, and research local, state, and federal legislation, ordinances, and agreements impacting law enforcement and civilian oversight.
• Conduct unbiased data synthesis and research into best practices related to law enforcement.
• Evaluate existing policies and provide management with recommendations for revisions based on thorough research and analysis.
• Effectively communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders, participating in meetings as necessary.
• Complete special assignments as directed, including cross-functional projects utilizing specialized knowledge and insights from research into relevant laws, ordinances, agreements, and policies affecting law enforcement and oversight operations.
• Assist in preparing and delivering presentations to stakeholders.
• Provide management with informed opinions on potential courses of action based on specialized knowledge in assigned policy areas.
• Draft formal memoranda, reports, briefs, presentations, and other correspondence discussing research, data analysis, policy positions, and associated recommendations; prepare visual aids such as tables, charts, and graphs to support analysis and research. Present findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities - Supervisor and/or Leadership Exercised:

• None.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Must possess the necessary knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed:

• Knowledge of Austin Police Department (APD) procedures, policies, and training.
• Knowledge of policy research and analysis methodologies.
• Knowledge of legal research methodologies.
• Knowledge of principles and practices associated with the assigned policy and program areas.
• Knowledge of City practices, policies, and procedures.
• Knowledge of relevant federal, state, and local laws.
• Skill in organizing and executing assignments and projects.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Skill in managing multiple tasks and prioritizing effectively.
• Skill in utilizing computers and related software.
• Skill in data analysis and problem-solving.
• Skill in planning and organizing.
• Ability to establish databases for data maintenance or tracking.
• Ability to conduct presentations.
• Ability to author technical documents.
• Ability to identify variables and utilize various resources for data gathering.
• Ability to work amidst frequent interruptions and shifting priorities.
• Ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with other City employees and the public.
• Ability to execute tasks and assignments systematically.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, tact, and diplomacy in all interactions while maintaining confidentiality as required.

Criminal Background Investigation:
This position has been approved for a Criminal Background Investigation.

EEO/ADA:
The City of Austin is committed to compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you require reasonable accommodation during the application process or have questions regarding essential job functions, please reach out for assistance.

The City of Austin does not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, age, religion, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation. Additionally, the City will not discriminate in employment decisions based on an individual's AIDS, AIDS Related Complex, or HIV status; nor will the City discriminate against individuals perceived to be at risk of HIV infection or those associated with individuals believed to be at risk.

Information For City Employees:
If you are an employee within the department, are in good standing, and meet both the minimum and preferred qualifications, you will receive an initial interview.