Junior Analyst

The Department of Planning and Budget ( DPB ) is seeking entry level Budget and Policy Analysts. The positions will work with senior DPB staff to assist the Governor’s Office, the Governor’s cabinet, the General Assembly, and other state agencies when developing and executing the Commonwealth’s budget. Initially, the analysts will be expected to assist with developing and reviewing budget and policy information, conducting detailed short and long range budget analysis, monitoring agency expenditures, organizing strategic planning and related performance information, reviewing legislation for fiscal impact, conducting special studies and program evaluation as needed, and communicating findings and recommendations.

The successful candidates will develop the skills and knowledge base to progress toward gaining independent assignments. In addition, successful candidates will be required to develop a thorough knowledge of assigned agencies and to conduct a variety of oversight and review functions and perform analytical and special reviews involving budget and policy issues. The new analysts will be paired with mentors to assist in gaining knowledge and experience that will be needed ultimately to work independently in this role. Accordingly, the new analysts must work well within a team centered environment while being self-reliant.

Successful candidates will be able to think critically and effectively communicate creative recommendations, both orally and in writing. Moreover, candidates will also be able to develop in-depth analysis and provide rapid responses when necessary. The successful candidates must also be able to multi-task effectively and be comfortable making recommendations with limited information. These positions are intended to provide candidates with the opportunity to advance in the agency upon satisfactorily demonstrating the above knowledge, skills, and abilities and to continue advancing as these skills become more developed and refined.

Minimum Qualifications

•Undergraduate degree in public policy, political science, public administration, government, finance, business administration, or planning or related field; or, an equivalent combination of professional level training and experience in public administration, business administration, program evaluation, research methods, planning, or government.

•Understanding of the principles of planning, budgeting, policy analysis, and financial management

•Evidence of the ability to use automated software to prepare and present analysis such as with Microsoft Word and Excel.

•Evidence of the ability to communicate effectively with individuals at various levels of a complex organization both orally and in writing.

•Evidence of the ability to handle multiple complex assignments simultaneously under aggressive deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

•Advanced degree such as a master’s degree, Ph.D. in a related field

•Evidence of the ability to use additional Microsoft Office applications such as Access and Powerpoint.

Special Requirements

Interviewed applicants will be given a work sample to complete just prior to the start of the interview process. Applicants should expect probing questions from panel members regarding the work sample, either in the initial interview or in any subsequent panels.

To be considered for this position, the applicant must submit a completed application, along with a resume and a cover letter. Failure to submit a completed application, resume, and cover letter will result in an applicant not being considered for the position.

Special Instructions to Applicants

State employees who have been affected by Policy 1.3 Layoff and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card) must submit the card BEFORE the closing date for this position. The card may be scanned and attached to the application or faxed to (804) 371-7401. Please include your name and the position number on the fax cover sheet. A valid driver’s license is required upon employment. AMERICORPS , PEACE CORPS , AND OTHER NATIONAL SERVICE ALUMNI ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY .

The Department of Human Resource Management does not accept “See Resume” as a response to any question. Information on the application is the primary source used for screening the position. Failure to complete any section of the application may disqualify the application for further consideration. Applications should include complete work history, including periods of unemployment if applicable. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED .