Education Systems Center at Northern Illinois University (EdSystems) focuses on system impact, working to craft policies and build programs that improve student outcomes and prepare more young people for careers in a global economy. While based in downtown Chicago, EdSystems is a part of NIU’s Division of Outreach, Engagement, and Regional Development. EdSystems is seeking to hire a qualified individual to serve as a Policy and Program Associate to support our policy and program initiatives, specifically programs related to the Illinois Advanced Apprenticeship Consortium, apprenticeship activities in Chicago, and support for state-level policy committees. The individual in this position must be comfortable working independently in a small team environment and partnering with staff members and diverse outside partners alike. Duties and Responsibilities (generally) The Policy and Program Associate will play a key role supporting EdSystems’ programs and initiatives relating to apprenticeships, as well as support EdSystems’ leadership of three committees that serve a critical role shaping Illinois’ education and workforce policy.

Minimum Required Qualifications for this position

1. High school graduation or equivalent

2. Any one or any combination of the following, totaling three years (36 months), from the categories below:

A) College course work in any field.

60 semester hours equals 1 year (12 months)
90 semester hours equals 2 years (24 months)
120 semester hours or more equals 3 years (36 months)
B) Progressively more responsible work experience in supervising, organizing, coordinating or other significant work with specific educational or administrative program initiatives.

3. Two (2) years of responsible experience in supervising, organizing, coordinating or other significant work with specific educational or administrative program initiatives.

Education and Experience Preferred

Bachelor’s degree required with 1-3 years of relevant work experience preferred

Additional Knowledge and Skills:
Excellent oral and written communication skills
Project/program management experience
Event planning and management experiences
Demonstrated ability to take independent action and assume responsibility
Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with a variety of colleagues and stakeholders
Basic data analysis and visualization capabilities preferred
Proficiency in using software such as MS Word, Excel, and PPT , as well as high level of comfort with internet research and document creation
A passion for education, and preparing young people for successful careers