Housing Elements Analyst
: Job Details :

THE POSITION

Housing Elements form the backbone of housing policy in the State of California. The State has approached the current 6th Cycle with increased oversight and accountability, and as a result local jurisdictions have adopted housing elements with ambitious housing targets and policy proposals. However, many jurisdictions in LA County are backing away from bold policies, adopting inadequate rezoning proposals, and falling far short of their RHNA requirements. AHLA is launching a new program to track Housing Element implementation in cities across LA County and organize local residents and advocates to hold their cities accountable both for producing new housing and implementing the policies and programs they are obligated to.

Abundant Housing LA is seeking a Housing Elements Analyst to help lead the organization's work to track the implementation of Housing Element programs and policies across LA County, hold cities accountable for meeting Housing Element requirements, and identify policies that will help cities meet their RHNA goals. In addition, this position will also assist with other key local policy priorities and advocacy. This will be a key new position at AHLA that will help launch a new program area, will play a critical role in shaping the AHLA's organizing approach to galvanize local advocates to hold their cities accountable and advocate for new policies, and contribute to the organization's overall policy research and advocacy work. The analyst will help AHLA determine priority jurisdictions to focus on, conduct in-depth analysis of Housing Elements goals, policies and programs, identify current status of Housing Element and RHNA goals, and help identify key organizing and advocacy opportunities.

The primary responsibilities of the position are as follows:

• Conduct in-depth research and analyses and collect housing-related data on jurisdictions across LA County
• Produce internal and external reports to effectively communicate key findings
• Conduct research and analysis on local Housing Elements, producing key findings and reports on RHNA goals, annualized local housing production, policies and programs, and other critical information
• Research and analyze potential policies and produce data-driven policy positions for the organization
• Work collaboratively with field organizing team to help identify and coordinate key advocacy opportunities
• When necessary, work with volunteers, interns, and outside research firms on research projects
• Identify potential research and policy analysis that is relevant to the organization's mission
• Meet with, and solicit input from, housing experts and housing advocates in the region
• Track potential housing issues to influence key decision points.
• Research policy issues and draft reports and fact sheets to reflect AHLA positions on these issues.
• Translate policy research into readable and compelling articles for the public

QUALIFICATIONS

This is a mid-level position, and the successful candidate will have excellent research and data analysis skills, as well as a strong familiarity with Housing Elements, zoning and land use, and state housing policies. The salary range for this position is $75,000 to $85,000 per year.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Urban Planning, Public Policy, or similar field (Master's preferred).

Experience and Other Qualifications

• Three (3) years of experience in Urban Planning, public policy, or similar field, with an emphasis on housing policy.
• Passion and enthusiasm for working to end the housing shortage.
• Strong background in research and knowledge of the following:
• Municipal, County, State and National/Federal data sources
• Housing data
• GIS tools
• Excel
• Statistical analyses
• Excellent analytical and communication skills (both oral and written) and ability to clearly and accurately describe complex issues to different audiences.
• Attention to detail, ability to handle multiple projects and deliver under deadline and pressure.
• In-depth knowledge of California housing policy, particularly Housing Elements.
• Demonstrated capacity for working in a collaborative policy environment.
• Ability to work independently with a high degree of initiative.
• Excellent problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage and prioritize work on multiple projects.
• Ability to travel within Los Angeles County.

The role is a two-year grant term-limited position; however the organization has a strong desire to make this role permanent. The Analyst will report to the Director of Policy and Research, and will work closely with other staff in the organization.The position is full-time and requires the ability to work some evening hours and weekends, as well as travel within LA County. Abundant Housing LA is located in Downtown Los Angeles, and all staff are required to be present in the office two days per week, on Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Abundant Housing LA is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, sex, age, religion, color, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, personal appearance, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, matriculation, genetic information, or political affiliation. We are deeply committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace where our differences broaden our awareness, enrich our experiences and are the basis of our collective strength. People of color, members of underrepresented ethnic or socioeconomic populations and bilingual/multilingual speakers are encouraged to apply.

To Apply:

Send a cover letter, resume, and 2-5 page writing sample to Alex Zambrano ...@abundanthousingla.org with the subject line “Housing Elements Analyst”. The writing sample should exemplify your ability to conduct research, data analysis, or effectively synthesize and communicate complex technical information. The deadline for applications is January 6th, 2025.