Director of Education Policy, Kenny C. Guinn Center

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The Kenny C. Guinn Center for Policy Priorities seeks qualified applicants for the position of Director of Education Policy. The position is statewide and may be based in either Reno or Las Vegas, Nevada. The Director of Education Policy develops and implements the Guinn Center’s comprehensive education research and policy analysis program. In consultation with the Executive Director and the Research Director, the Director of Education Policy develops, conducts, and oversees education-related policy research for the Center.

The Director of Education Policy performs policy research and related work, including developing and writing research reports and policy briefs, employs mixed methods in research design, monitors emerging and ongoing federal, state, and local education policy issues, and gathers relevant and current research from external partners and academic partners across Nevada and nationwide. Moreover, the Director of Education assists with grant writing and oversees the execution of grants and negotiated contracts, serves as the outreach and media spokesperson when responding to issues relating to education, and presents the results of policy briefs and reports to legislators, government officials, and community groups.

In addition, the Director of Education Policy:

• Builds and maintains policy-related relationships and develops a network of stakeholders in the education field at all levels (locally, statewide, and nationally);

• Serves as a spokesperson for all education policy-related matters;

• Provides relevant testimony and policy research support to the legislative and executive branches;

• Reviews and develops methodologies to capture policy information for final publication;

• Scopes education-related research with various partners; and

• Oversees and guides select Guinn Center staff in their work relating to education policy.

To be successful in this position, the incumbent should have knowledge of several policy areas and topics in the education specialty. This includes K-12 best practices, special education, early childhood education, funding formulas and practices, student assessment, college and career readiness, and other Nevada-specific education policy matters. Moreover, the incumbent must be versed in basic data collection methods and analysis and know how to identify, read, and understand state regulations and statutes. Excellent writing and presentation skills are required, along with the ability to present complicated and detailed information and research in easily digestible and understood formats.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree, law degree, or other advanced degree from an accredited college or university and two years of related professional work experience; OR 

• Ph.D. and one year of related professional work experience.

Related Experience: policy research and analysis; grant management; project management; employee supervision, or related. 

Certification and Licensure

Driver’s License

Schedule/Travel Requirements

• Remote and hybrid work arrangements are available for consideration based on the location of the candidate. Qualified candidates from southern and rural Nevada are encouraged to apply.

• Statewide and occasional national travel is required

Compensation Grade

Administrative Faculty – C

To view the salary schedule for this position, please visit: Salary Schedules and select Administrative Faculty by Grade. Salary is competit