Equity Analyst (Budget & Policy) - County of Contra Costa, California

Why join Contra Costa County's Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ)? 

Joining Contra Costa County's Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ) provides a unique opportunity to contribute to a groundbreaking initiative promoting racial equity and social justice countywide. ORESJ is deeply committed to prioritizing the needs of vulnerable residents disproportionately impacted by systemic inequities. By joining, you become part of a team engaged in an accountable, innovative, and creative pursuit of social change.
 
 It's worth noting that Contra Costa County's commitment to equity spans all departments and divisions. While ORESJ serves as a focal point, there are opportunities to collaborate with various departments on initiatives promoting racial justice and equity. This integrated approach enables a comprehensive effort to address systemic disparities and foster inclusivity throughout the county. Whether within ORESJ or collaborating with other departments, your contribution will be crucial in advancing social equity in Contra Costa County.

We are looking for someone who:

• Demonstrates understanding of social, political, cultural, legal, technological, and environmental issues
• Has experience in policy analysis and development, emphasizing equity and social justice issues, and the ability to formulate and advocate for public policies in these areas
• Has deep knowledge and experience in local government or program administration, including organization planning, budgeting, financial analysis, and performance measurement
• Possesses excellent oral and written communication skills, which will be used to prepare clear, concise, and effective written reports, correspondence, and other materials and to make effective presentations
• Adeptly uses word processing, spreadsheet, and software applications to accurately convey information
• Brings strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain effective working relationships, including working directly with the Board of Supervisors, County Advisory Bodies, County Management, County departments, community members and local community organizations

What you will typically be responsible for:

• Analyzing policies and budgets to ensure they align with the county’s racial equity and social justice goals
• Keeping informed of changing federal and state laws and administrative regulations affecting the county’s budget and overall operations
• Evaluating the impact of countywide policies on racial justice outcomes and recommending policy revisions and development
• Reviewing departmental budgets, evaluating requests for adjustments, considering departmental and Countywide implications of such budget actions, and conferring with departmental staff regarding fiscal alternatives
• Effectively prioritize and organize multiple assignments and projects
• Coordinate project teams spanning programs, divisions, and agencies to lead strategic initiatives
• Participating in community engagement activities, offering data-driven insights
• Providing administrative and technical support to the Equity Committee, commissions or advisory groups as assigned

A few reasons you might love this job: 

• Joining the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice (ORESJ) as an inaugural staff member offers a unique opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact, addressing racial disparities and advancing social justice
• As an agent of change, you will have a strong voice in shaping the direction of ORESJ and driving county-wide racial equity strategy. Surrounded by like-minded individuals, you will collaborate in a supportive and innovative environment where your contributions are valued
• Your professional growth will be prioritized, with ample opportunities for learning and networking
• By joining ORESJ, you become part of a pioneering effort, shaping best practices and serving as a model for equity. This role offers a fulfilling career path at the forefront of transformative change, leaving a lasting legacy of social justice countywide

A few challenges you might face in this job: 

• Joining a brand-new county equity initiative in its infancy phase and currently being designed and implemented can be daunting, but can be overcome with adaptability and resilience
• Coordinating multi-agency collaboration, addressing intersectional inequities, and ensuring lasting impact adds complexity, but strong vision and dedication to equity can drive transformative change
• Overcoming resistance to change and dismantling entrenched inequities demands tact and empathetic and strategic communication to foster collective commitment to equity

Competencies Required: 

• Analyzing & Interpreting Data: Drawing meaning and conclusions from quantitative or qualitative data
• Innovative Problem Solving: Identifying and analyzing problems in order to propose new ways to do business
• Industry Monitoring: Grasping the external political, economic, competitive, and social factors affecting the industry
• Legal & Regulatory Navigation: Understanding, interpreting, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations
• Action & Results Focused (Taking Initiative): Initiating tasks and focusing on accomplishment
• Learning Agility: Seeking learning opportunities and applying the lessons to one’s work
• Oral and Written Communication: Skillfully interact with diverse groups and organizations, and prepare clear, accurate, effective, well-organized and understandable written documents and reports
• Building & Maintaining Relationships: Establishing rapport and maintaining mutually productive relationships
• Valuing Diversity: Appreciating the benefits of varied backgrounds and cultures in the workplace
• Leading Cross-Divisional Collaboration: Demonstrating cooperation and teamwork while working within and across divisions and teams
• Project Management: Ensuring that projects are on-time, on-budget, and achieve their objectives
• Thinking & Acting Systematically: Formulating objectives and priorities, and implementing plans consistent with the long-term interests of the organization in a global environment

You can read the complete job description at: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/contracosta/classspecs/1696070.  

For Frequently Asked Questions regarding this recruitment, please click on the following link: Equity-Analyst FAQ