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Data and Policy Analyst

High-quality data, research, and analysis are essential for Kansas Action for Children (KAC) to inform and advocate for public policies that improve the well-being of Kansas kids. By using evidence-based approaches, KAC can better understand the challenges facing children and families, identify disparities, and develop effective, data-driven policy solutions.

MANDATORY LOCATION REQUIREMENT

This role is primarily an in-office position and requires a strong, consistent presence in Topeka. 

The Data and Policy Analyst is required to work regularly from our office located in downtown Topeka and attend legislative activities at the Kansas Statehouse.  

Work from home or other locations may be available during the non-legislative session contingent on their work responsibilities and the terms of the collective bargaining agreement. The applicant must reside in the state of Kansas to be considered. 

ROLE OVERVIEW

Reporting to the Principal Economist, the Data and Policy Analyst conducts research and data analysis about the well-being of Kansas children and families from state, national, and government sources. 

Kansas Action for Children is the state partner for KIDS COUNT, a nationwide network organized by the Annie E. Casey Foundation. By providing high-quality data and trend analysis through its KIDS COUNT Data Center, the Annie E. Casey Foundation seeks to enrich local, state, and national discussions concerning ways to secure better futures for all children. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The Data and Policy Analyst develops the data collection plan and directly collects and extracts data from the U.S. Census Bureau, state agencies, and other resources. They create and manage the production and distribution of KIDS COUNT publications and products, including the comprehensive data book, data snapshots, and other special reports. 

Additionally, this person works with colleagues to develop strategies to inform key stakeholders, policymakers, agencies, the media, and partners in our network about data findings, trends, and policy implications. The Data and Policy Analyst also serves as the state coordinator for the national KIDS COUNT network, including attendance at KIDS COUNT conferences, participation in committees and workgroups, and other meetings as appropriate. 

QUALIFICATIONS

A successful applicant should have experience collecting, managing, and reporting quantitative and qualitative data from common data sources relating to income, population, and demographics. We are seeking applicants with exceptional presentation skills, such as data visualization experience, with the ability to translate data into meaningful content for broad and diverse audiences. 

UNION STATUS

This position is represented by Communication Workers of America Local 6400 and is a bargaining unit position. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Collect a robust set of data for the KIDS COUNT Data Center and related to KAC policy priorities and projects.
  • Create data products, including research reports, legislative district and county-level fact sheets, and data-related policy briefs.
  • Identify data needs on child and family well-being, work with state administrators to develop data if necessary, and prepare and load data into the KIDS COUNT data center.
  • Perform fact-checking, data integrity checks, and editing needed for issue briefs, policy briefs, legislative testimony, and fact sheets.
  • Manage the data collection and production workflow for the KIDS COUNT deliverables and other related deliverables. 
  • Maintain expertise in child well-being in several focus areas, including race equity in child policy, economic security, child and adolescent health, and early care and education.
  • Develop project dashboards using charts, tables, graphs, and other data visualizations, and prepare progress reports and summary reports.
  • Equip diverse stakeholders with information about resources available through KIDS COUNT.
  • Provide technical assistance and support to KAC staff on KIDS COUNT resources.
  • Represent KAC at national KIDS COUNT meetings and conferences and on state coalitions and similar task forces.

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

REQUIRED

  • Bachelor’s degree in Education, Social Welfare, Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, Public Policy or related field OR 3 years of related experience.
  • 1-2 years of experience analyzing data and visualizing data as demonstrated by work experience.
  • The ability to use and interpret a wide range of sources, such as legislation, regulations, government data, and academic work.
  • Excellent research and writing skills, including the ability to synthesize complex data and policy information for various audiences, as demonstrated through writing and data visualization samples.
  • Demonstrated capacity to set priorities, work on multiple complex and detail-oriented projects (often on a time-sensitive basis), and work effectively individually and as part of a team.
  • Commitment to and interest in ensuring every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy and thrive. 

PREFERRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED

  • Master’s degree in Education, Social Welfare, Psychology, Sociology, Public Health, Public Policy, or related field.
  • 1-2 years of experience studying social work, early childhood, maternal health, and/or families, as demonstrated in application materials.
  • 2 or more years of experience analyzing data using SQL, R, SPSS, STATA, SAS, or other statistical programs.
  • Previous experience with policymakers, state agencies and data providers, and legislators.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

The starting salary range for this position is $55,000 annually, commensurate with qualifications and experience.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kansas Action for Children is an equal opportunity/equal access/affirmative action employer fully committed to achieving a diverse workforce and complies with all applicable Federal and Kansas State laws, regulations, and executive orders regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action in its programs and activities. Kansas Action for Children does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, gender, genetic information, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy or parental status and veteran’s status.

Kansas Action for Children recognizes and honors diversity in race, ethnicity, culture, age, abilities, gender, sexual orientation, and places where people live. We strongly encourage applications from people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ community, and other underrepresented and historically marginalized groups.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply for this opportunity, please provide a copy of your resume and a cover letter with evidence of your experience with data and policy analysis.

The initial review of applicants will take place beginning the week of September 29, 2025 and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. The position will remain posted until filled.