Policy Analyst & Advocate Position

Better Neighbors LA is currently seeking a full-time Policy Analyst & Advocate to conduct research, collect data, and present analysis and conclusions on issues relating to housing and the short-term rental industry in California, and maintain relationships with key stakeholders. 

About Better Neighbors LA: Better Neighbors LA is a coalition of Southern California hosts, tenants, housing activists, hotel workers, and community members. We believe the best way to support true sharing for hosts and guests is also the best way to protect jobs and the community: by curbing illegal commercial activity in the short-term rental industry. 

Our mission is to support enforcement of the City of Los Angeles’ Home Sharing Ordinance, conduct research on the short-term rental industry and its impact on affordable housing and gentrification in LA and to develop local and statewide policy to protect housing, hotel jobs and neighborhoods impacted by the short-term rental industry.

For more information about our organization, visit https://www.betterneighborsla.org 

For more details about our work, see our 2022 Annual Report here.

Position Responsibilities:  The position will require the ability to conduct various types of policy research, including corporate research, research on laws and public decision-making processes to inform policy development and campaign strategy, and research on the economy and communities using government and other public data sources. The policy analyst and advocate will use their analyses to develop and carry out advocacy campaigns. This will include drafting of written materials, meeting with key stakeholders, and oral presentations at community meetings, government hearings, council and commission meetings, and other venues. The policy analyst & advocate may also represent Better Neighbors in the media, including in media interviews and on social media accounts. The policy analyst & advocate will also represent Better Neighbors LA at meetings, attend Better Neighbors LA actions, and support the work of the organization and the team as a whole. 

Qualifications:  

Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to economic justice and the labor movement. Applicants must have a degree in political science, public policy, urban planning or a similar field. Applicants with a graduate degree are encouraged to apply. Applicants may also satisfy the education requirement with other experience, such as experience as a researcher in the labor movement or with a social justice organization.

Strong writing skills are required as are excellent analytical skills; exceptional verbal communications skills; familiarity with database, word processing and spreadsheet software; local government meeting agendas; media interviewing skills; and the ability to work well as part of a team. Driving your own car is required. Strong preference for: legislative research experience, public records experience, and experience writing fact sheets and position letters.  

Employment Terms: 

Salary is $66,560. Full health benefits; retirement plan; generous vacation; paid parking and mileage reimbursement. A friendly, team-oriented working environment. 

Application Process: 

This position is available immediately. E-mail cover letter and resume to Rebecca Ayala at [rebecca@betterneighborsla.org]. No phone calls please. Applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements will not receive a response. Applications will be evaluated on a rolling basis.

BETTER NEIGHBORSLA IS AN AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER. PEOPLE OF COLOR, WOMEN, AND LGBTQ CANDIDATES ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY.