Budget Analyst - Higher Education

Higher Education Budget Analyst

The Higher Education Budget Analyst is responsible for working with the institutions of higher education and the Texas Legislature to develop state budget and policy recommendations for institutions of higher education. Additionally, the analyst performs quantitative analysis on various higher education-related data and state funding formulas, performs evaluations, assesses performance measures reports, communicates in writing and orally, and works on special projects for the Legislative Budget Board (LBB) relating to the higher education area of state government. The position reports to the Higher Education Manager and works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Provide assistance to assigned institutions of higher education on development of budgets/requests, strategic plans, and other materials.
• Examine budgets and requests to assess whether funds are appropriately allocated, budgeted and expended.
• Evaluate operations and outcomes in light of legislative intent, best practices, efficiency, and effectiveness.
• Develop budget and policy recommendations and accurately reflect them in information systems.
• Identify funding adjustments necessary to improve operations or to conform to targeted spending levels.
• Inform management of budget/policy issues and provide concise explanations and options for resolution.
• Collect, organize and conduct quantitative analysis on various data and state funding formulas and prepare written materials, including publications.
• Inform management of significant policy/budget issues and provide concise explanations and options for resolution.
• Represent the agency at external meetings/events and then provide written or oral summaries of key issues.
• Orally present and explain recommendations to LBB management, legislative committees and others.
• Conduct quality assurance procedures to produce accurate and complete work products.
• Prepare written fiscal and policy analyses of legislation.
• Prepare riders and amendments for General Appropriations Bills and other legislation.
• May plan and conduct research projects and field studies.
• Contribute to agency projects and perform related work as assigned.

Essential Attributes and Skills:

• Work effectively with LBB and assigned agency management and staff, and legislators/legislative staff.
• Think critically and use initiative and good judgment.
• Communicate professionally in writing and orally (including presentations in formal and informal settings).
• Create timely, relevant, accurate, and polished work products.
• Complete tasks with appropriate levels of independence and attention to detail.
• Use business tools successfully (i.e. Word, Excel, Access, Google Chrome, email, customized applications, desktop pc, laptop/tablet, and smart phone).
• Proficiency in MS Excel, including complex calculations, PivotTables, and general ability to build and maintain complex spreadsheets with formulas, charts, and automation for reporting.
• Analyze, synthesize, and summarize quantitative and qualitative information.
• Identify alternatives and make recommendations supported with evidence.
• Maintain confidential and sensitive information and follow agency protocols.
• Understand legislative/budget processes and budget, performance, and operations of assigned agency.
• Work at a computer and desk for extended periods of time.

Attributes Required of Every LBB Employee:

• Embrace agency mission/core values and follow policies, procedures, and processes.
• Work effectively with LBB management and staff, as well as all external customers.
• Coordinate, collaborate and employ good interpersonal skills; demonstrate positive outlook.
• Balance concurrent projects, work under pressure, and adapt to changing priorities/deadlines.
• Act with motivation, organization, and attention to details; complete tasks with an appropriate level of independence.
• Be punctual and have regular attendance.
• Work overtime on nights, weekends, and holidays, as necessary to meet agency deadlines.

Education and Experience:

• Graduation with a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited college or university is required.
• Earned graduate degree is preferred.
• Course-work or degree in public policy or administration, program evaluation, quantitative/qualitative research, educational measurement/research, financial affairs, accounting, academic affairs, legal research or a related field is preferred.
• Two years of progressively responsible full-time work experience in a relevant policy area is preferred.