Posted on February 13, 2013

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Policy Associate

The policy associate responds to and formulates policy proposals on economic, racial and social justice issues, develops materials to assert NPA’s positions to multiple audiences and represents NPA and our positions to policymakers and allies.

About NPA

National People’s Action is a network of metropolitan, regional and statewide community power organizations that work together to advance a racial and economic justice agenda. NPA has more than 200 organizers and other staff working in cities and towns across the country, and a national staff of nineteen, with headquarters in Chicago.

NPA builds and strengthens grassroots organizations, trains community organizers and indigenous leadership, and conducts research and policy analysis to support issues campaigns designed to create a more just, equitable, and sustainable society.

About the position

Ideal candidates will have excellent policy analysis and research skills; write skillfully for a broad range of audiences, including translating complicated policy issues into language that is accessible to a broad range of audiences; have knowledge of NPA’s primary issues and experience with the legislative and regulatory process; be able to work both independently and in close collaboration with other staff and coalition members; have knowledge of and/or experience with community or labor organizing; be comfortable multitasking and working in a fast-paced and diverse environment; and a deep commitment to racial and economic justice.

Responsibilities

• Analyze policy proposals, proposed rules, and arguments on a diverse array of issues.
• Write policy memos, comment letters, fact sheets and other materials for a range of audiences.
• Represent NPA at meetings with lawmakers, regulators, and subject area experts and connect them with grassroots leadership.
• Build and maintaining relationships and work collaboratively with NPA affiliates and partners.
• Identify and develop relationships with additional policy experts, academics, and practitioners who can contribute to our understanding of issues or collaborate with us in advancing our policy goals.
• Contribute to overall advocacy strategy and campaign development
• Assist with communications efforts, including action alerts and mobilization efforts
• Work closely with the Policy Director and in collaboration with other NPA staff

Qualifications

• BA in government, public policy, etc., or equivalent work experience, MA preferred.
• Excellent writing skills
• Deep commitment to racial and economic justice
• Experience working with multi-racial groups with diverse class backgrounds
• Sense of humor and ability to work in with a fast paced team
• 1-3 years experience working with community organizing, labor union, or advocacy organization
• Ability to work independently and with flexible hours
• Ability to travel

Salary and Benefits

Salary is based on experience. NPA’s competitive benefits package includes medical and dental insurance, employer contribution to retirement plan, flexible spending account, and paid time off in December in addition to paid vacation.

Application Instructions

Please send a cover letter and resume to Liz Ryan Murray, NPA Policy Director, at jobs@npa-us.org by February 28, 2013. Women, G/L/B/T/Q persons, and people of color strongly encouraged to apply.