Deputy Director of Policy (0566U) - Job 79378 - College of Environmental Design

Deputy Director of Policy (0566U) - Job 79378 - College of Environmental Design

 

About Berkeley

 

At the University of California, Berkeley, we are committed to fostering a welcoming community where all individuals can thrive. Our values of openness, freedom, and belonging make this a unique and inspiring place for students, faculty, and staff alike.

 

As a world-class public research university, Berkeley is known for academic and research excellence, a commitment to social justice, and a diverse and dynamic student body. Since our founding in 1868, we have advanced knowledge, innovation, and global impact.

 

We seek applicants who reflect the diversity of California and are committed to advancing equity and inclusion in higher education. Please consider whether your values align with our Guiding Values and Principles, Principles of Community, and Strategic Plan.

 

We believe learning is central to the staff experience. Berkeley offers all full-time staff at least 80 hours of paid time annually for professional development. Explore how you can grow your career at UC Berkeley. For more on our staff communities, watch this video.

 

Departmental Overview

 

The Terner Center for Housing Innovation formulates bold, evidence-driven strategies to ensure access to vibrant, affordable, and sustainable homes and communities. Founded in 2015, the Center is a nationally recognized leader in identifying and promoting innovative policy and market-based housing solutions.

 

Named in honor of Don Terner—a visionary housing leader with a “no limits” spirit—the Center is guided by a deep commitment to equity, practicality, and transformative research. Our work is grounded in the belief that housing is foundational to opportunity and well-being.

 

The Terner Center focuses on expanding housing supply, reducing homelessness through stable housing solutions, promoting affordable housing innovation, and advancing climate-resilient, low-carbon homes. Through rigorous research, policy engagement, and collaboration with public and private stakeholders, we aim to drive systemic change in housing policy and practice.

 

We are hiring a Deputy Director of Policy to lead policy engagement efforts and ensure that Terner's research is effectively informing decision-makers and shaping legislation at both state and federal levels.

 

Position Summary

 

The Deputy Director of Policy will:

 

• Ensure Terner's research informs housing legislation, regulations, and agency guidance in California and at the federal level.

 

• Draft technical assistance materials, provide briefings and testimony, and cultivate relationships with policymakers and staff.

 

• Track emerging policy debates to identify opportunities for data-driven research and insight.

 

• Collaborate with Terner's research and communications teams to develop accessible materials tailored to policy audiences.

 

• Manage members of the policy team, including fellows, staff, and student researchers.

 

• Coordinate overlapping policy efforts with Terner Labs, particularly in construction and land use innovation.

 

• Author op-eds, blog posts, and commentary that promote Terner's findings.

 

• Respond to high-level media requests and represent Terner at conferences and public events.

 

• Serve as Terner's liaison to housing trade groups, coalitions, and associations.

 

Application Review Date

 

The First Review Date is July 14, 2025, with applications accepted until the position is filled.

 

Responsibilities

 

• 25% - Develop op-eds, summaries, blog posts, and other materials translating Terner research for public and policy audiences.

 

• 20% - Share research findings with policymakers, agency staff, advocates, and industry partners.

 

• 15% - Monitor relevant legislation, regulations, and rulemaking efforts.

 

• 10% - Represent Terner at conferences, seminars, and meetings.

 

• 10% - Supervise and support staff, students, fellows, and affiliates in line with university HR policies.

 

• 10% - Respond to external stakeholder inquiries and media requests.

 

• 5% - Develop and execute on fundraising opportunities for policy initiatives.

 

• 5% - Cultivate and manage partnerships, advisory board members, and fellows.

 

Required Qualifications

 

• Expert-level understanding of policy analysis techniques and legislative processes.

 

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills; ability to convey research findings to diverse audiences.

 

• Advanced project management experience; proven ability to lead complex, multi-stakeholder initiatives.

 

• In-depth knowledge of housing policy, federal/state/municipal housing programs, and land use regulations.

 

• Demonstrated subject matter expertise in legislative and administrative systems.

 

• Experience managing teams and mentoring staff or students in academic, nonprofit, or public sector environments.

 

• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.

 

• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.

 

• Ability to build cross-sector collaborations and navigate complex political environments.

 

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and/or equivalent experience.

 

Preferred Qualifications

 

• Advanced degree in a related field (e.g., Public Policy, Planning, Urban Economics, Law).

 

• Demonstrated fundraising success.

 

• Strong negotiation and partnership development skills.

 

Salary & Benefits

 

The anticipated annual salary range is $140,000-$170,000, depending on experience and qualifications. UC Berkeley offers an outstanding benefits package, including health, retirement, and professional development support.

 

This salary range reflects a variety of internal and external factors and does not guarantee a salary at the top of the range.

 

Background Check

 

This position requires a criminal conviction background check due to the nature of the job responsibilities. UC Berkeley is committed to equitable hiring and will review conviction information in the context of the position.

 

Misconduct Disclosure Requirement

 

Finalists must disclose any of the following from the last seven years:

 

• Final administrative or judicial decisions finding misconduct.

 

• Current or pending disciplinary proceedings.

 

• Departures from a position during or following misconduct investigations.

 

• Appeals of misconduct findings.

 

“Misconduct” includes, but is not limited to, violations of policies or laws related to sexual harassment or violence, discrimination, dishonesty, or abusive conduct. Relevant policies include:

 

• Sexual Violence and Sexual Harassment Policy

 

• Anti-Discrimination Policy

 

• Abusive Conduct in the Workplace Policy

 

Equal Employment Opportunity

 

The University of California is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status.

 

To apply, visit https://apptrkr.com/6362963

 

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