Public Policy Advocate

MISSION

Job Opportunities Task Force (JOTF) develops and advocates for policies and programs that increase the job skills, employment opportunities, and incomes of low-wage workers and job seekers in Maryland.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

Policy Advocate

The Policy Advocate is responsible for working with internal and external stakeholders when developing the organization’s legislative proposals and strategies. This position works to influence legislation on the state and local levels. The Policy Advocate reports directly to the CEO and works closely with the programs and research staff.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES

• Researching, preparing and/or assisting in the preparation of draft legislation.
• Developing relationships with legislators and their key staff to educate them about an issue(s) so that they can become effective advocates for legislation supported by JOTF.
• Identifying target audiences such as legislators, government officials, or other individuals with influence over decisions related to legislation proposed or supported by JOTF.
• Organizing grassroots campaigns to build public support for JOTF’s legislative proposals.
• Gaining the support of key stakeholders, including community leaders, community organizations and/or groups, and members of the media to effectively support and advance JOTF’s legislative priorities.
• Attend bill hearings, committee meetings and other legislative events to champion JOTF’s legislative agenda.
• Draft written testimony and provide oral testimony that is clear, concise, persuasive and well-researched in support of JOTF’s legislative agenda.
• Preparing reports detailing the status of bills or proposals, including lobbying activities and outcomes.
• Monitoring legislative activity and proposing new or revised bills to respond to new issues or changing conditions.
• Monitoring and analyzing the activities of others to identify conflicting or competing interests.
• Communicating with community groups and other interested parties about the organization’s legislative agenda and/or priorities related to workforce development, including serving as lead and/or state lead for various policy coalitions.
• Use social media and other means (e.g., newsletters, email blasts, infographics, meetings, workshops) to educate and organize community groups and others.

REQUIREMENTS

• Two or more years of public policy advocacy experience.
• Proficient knowledge of the Maryland legislative process.
• Demonstrated ability to work with a diverse population including grassroots and/or community groups, lawmakers, and the business community.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Outstanding people skills, including the ability to influence and persuade others.
• Ability to research and analyze a problem and propose policy solutions.
• Available to attend events and meetings outside work hours, especially during the Maryland legislative session.
• Reliable personal transportation to commute to Annapolis and community events around the state.
• Relationships in the Baltimore and/or Annapolis political community (preferred).
• Familiarity with software programs including Microsoft Office and CANVA (preferred).
• Familiarity with social media platforms including Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook (preferred).
• Familiarity with workforce development or issues (preferred).

POSITION DETAILS

This is a full-time, permanent position. Work will be performed either remotely or in a hybrid work environment. During the 90-day legislative session, work will be based in Annapolis where JOTF obtains temporary workspace. Otherwise, work will be based out of our JOTF’s Baltimore headquarters.

The ideal candidates will be able to provide their own transportation for travel to meetings around the state, community events, and to Annapolis during the legislative session.

COMPENSATION

This is a full-time position. The starting salary is $85,000, commensurate with experience. JOTF offers a competitive benefits package including health insurance, matched 403(b), paid leave, parking, and reimbursement for business travel and expenses.

We strongly value diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. JOTF is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, marital status, religious or political affiliation, or any other classification considered discriminatory under applicable law.

For background information about the Job Opportunities Task Force, see our website at www.jotf.org.

TO APPLY

Send a cover letter, resume, three (3) professional references, and two (2) short writing samples (no longer than 2 pages each), and type “Public Policy Advocate” in the subject line to [email protected].

Closing Date for Applications: This is a rolling hiring process; therefore, applicants are urged to apply early. Resumes will be reviewed as submitted and eligible applicants will be interviewed until the position is filled.