Senior Budget Analyst

State of Massachusetts - Boston, MA

Full-time - Senior

Hybrid - Boston, MA

Executive, Legislative, and Other General Government Support

About the position

The Senior Budget Analyst plays a crucial role in supporting the Budget Director and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) by analyzing agency programs and policies for budget implications. This position ensures financial accountability for the Department of Early Education and Care (EEC) through effective coordination of accounting, contracting, and policy functions. The analyst conducts fiscal and policy analyses, manages federal grants, and collaborates with various stakeholders to optimize budgetary resources and support the agency's mission of promoting the well-being of children, youth, and families.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Budget Director and CFO in analyzing agency program and policy functions for budget implications.
• Ensure financial accountability through coordination of accounting, contracting, and policy functions.
• Conduct fiscal and policy analyses on EEC administration and programs.
• Make recommendations for the development of new programs and policies.
• Ensure resources and contracts are allocated and tracked properly.
• Coordinate necessary data sharing with EEC units.
• Provide financial management and oversight over ISAs between EEC and other Massachusetts agencies in relation to federal funds.
• Manage, develop, track, and analyze expenditures across EEC's federal grants, trust accounts, and capital.
• Conduct and maintain updated federal spending projections based on grant mission and regulations.
• Integrate department policy and trends into forecasts and communicate changes with stakeholders.
• Collaborate with other state legislative and executive agencies in developing forecast models and assumptions.
• Present forecasts and policy impacts on federal grants to various stakeholders.
• Synthesize information from various departmental units to develop and communicate spending priorities.
• Work with federal agencies to ensure accurate processing of federal draws and reporting through federal systems.
• Support the Budget Unit with the development of spending plans and maintenance budgets for accounts in their portfolio.
• Provide federal updates to EEC Leadership and other relevant parties.
• Update, maintain, and submit routine reports for federal expenditures.

Requirements

• At least five (5) years of experience in budget, public policy, or a related field.
• Knowledge of and experience in state government policy development.
• Familiarity with the state budget process.
• Experience in facilitating meetings and collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to perform high-quality, objective research and data analysis.
• Results-oriented with a demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and excel at multi-tasking without sacrificing attention to detail.
• Commitment to being part of a learning organization and team.
• Intellectual curiosity, creativity, flexibility, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Advanced computer skills, particularly in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Access.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working with federal grants and regulations.
• Strong analytical skills and experience with data analysis tools.
• Ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with officials from other state and federal agencies.

Benefits

• Comprehensive employee benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off.