Title: Regulatory Policy Analyst

State Role Title: Policy Analyst

Hiring Range: Commensurate with education and experience up to $71,885

Pay Band: UG

Agency: VA Cannabis Control Authority

Location: VA Cannabis Control Authority

Agency Website: https://cca.virginia.gov/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The position is responsible for monitoring, analyzing, and developing cannabis-related policies by leveraging scientific research, stakeholder input, and industry trends. This role involves tracking and evaluating state and federal legislative initiatives concerning cannabis, hemp, and adjacent subjects, and assessing the potential impacts of proposed bills on public health, regulatory frameworks, and the cannabis industry. The incumbent will maintain expertise in emerging cannabis policy issues, including novel cannabinoids, and contribute to responsive policy solutions that promote innovation and growth. Scientific evaluation and regulatory compliance are central to the role, requiring the review of cannabis-related literature, collaboration with regulatory and scientific teams, and the development of strategies that align with statutory requirements and public health goals. The position also supports Virginia’s medical cannabis program through compliance guidance and industry best practices. Research and reporting duties include gathering data on industry practices, monitoring global regulatory trends, and producing reports, policy briefs, and recommendations for leadership. Strong communication and collaboration skills are essential, as the role supports the Legislative and Regulatory Manager, contributes to strategic planning, maintains regulatory records, and engages with government agencies, stakeholders, and community groups. Attendance at relevant scientific and educational events is expected to stay informed on developments in the field.

Minimum Qualifications

• Experience analyzing legislation, scientific research, and industry trends to develop evidence-based cannabis policy.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory frameworks, statutory compliance, and public health considerations.
• Proficiency in synthesizing complex scientific and legal data into clear, actionable recommendations.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for preparing reports, policy briefs, and presentations.
• Experience collaborating and engaging with stakeholders, agencies, and cross-functional teams.
• Adaptability to respond to evolving cannabis industry developments and regulatory landscapes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools.

Additional Considerations

• Experience working in or with government agencies, advocacy groups, or the cannabis industry.
• Experience drafting legislation, policy briefs, or regulatory guidance.
• Ability to manage cross-functional projects and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Comfort presenting findings to leadership or legislators.

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to “Your Application” in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

Reasonable accommodations are available to individuals with disabilities during the application and/or interview processes per the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please call 804-653-9490 for assistance.

The Commonwealth of Virginia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the policy of the Commonwealth of Virginia to prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, veteran status, political affiliation, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions in the recruitment, selection, and hiring of its workforce.

Contact Information

Name: Robin Hollenbeck

Phone: (804)653-9490

Email: robin.hollenbeck@cca.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.