Director of Government and Political Affairs

About the Job

Job Title: Director of Government and Political Affairs

America’s mining industry supplies the essential materials necessary for nearly every sector of our economy – from technology and healthcare to energy, transportation, infrastructure, and national security.

The National Mining Association (NMA) is the only national trade organization that serves as the voice of the U.S. mining industry and the hundreds of thousands of American workers it employs before Congress, the federal agencies, the judiciary, and the media. We advocate for public policies that will help America fully and responsibly utilize its vast natural resources. We work to ensure America has secure and reliable supply chains, abundant and affordable energy, and the American-sourced materials necessary for U.S. manufacturing and economic security—all delivered under world-leading environmental, safety, and labor standards.

Director of Government and Political Affairs

NMA is currently conducting a search for a full-time Director of Government and Political Affairs at the association’s headquarters office in Washington, D.C. Reporting to the Senior Vice President for Government and Political Affairs, this role will be critical in the development and implementation of Congressional and government affairs strategies advocating for NMA policy priorities.

Responsibilities

• Work with other government affairs team members to develop and implement Congressional lobbying strategies advancing NMA’s legislative and policy goals through direct outreach to Members of Congress and staff.
• Analyze the impacts of Congressional and regulatory actions on the mining industry.
• Draft position documents and create supportive materials, including statements and letters.
• Identify Congressional allies to advance the mining industry’s policies.
• Manage and track legislation that affects the mining industry.
• Draft memoranda on important Congressional issues for NMA members.
• Coordinate and respond to inquiries from member companies and industry allies.
• Develop, cultivate, and maintain bipartisan relationships with Members of Congress, staff, and key Congressional Committees.
• Lead, build, manage, and collaborate with outside groups and coalitions to build consensus and garner broader support for NMA’s legislative priorities.
• Assist in coordinating internal committees to formulate the association’s positions on specific policy issues.
• Keep the government affairs team informed about legislative, policy, regulatory, and political risks and opportunities relevant to membership.
• Actively suggest targets for political giving through NMA’s Political Action Committees.
• Attend fundraisers for key political allies.

Required Skills and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; advanced degree (e.g., business, finance, or law) preferred.
• 5+ years of related experience, preferably on Capitol Hill or in an administration role.
• Strong understanding of the legislative process.
• Knowledge of political dynamics and the ability to anticipate and interpret legislative outcomes.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
• Experience working in a fast-paced environment with the ability to manage multiple projects and shifting priorities.
• Highly organized and detail-oriented.
• Proactive self-starter who anticipates needs and resolves issues quickly.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

NMA is a proud equal opportunity employer. We are committed to furthering our engagement with, support for, and understanding of our community. We support all team members in being themselves and driving the ongoing diversification of our team. We value the distinct characteristics, skills, and backgrounds that make each team member’s experience unique.

Above all, our goal is to maintain a welcoming culture for all. “Welcoming” means every employee feels accepted, respected, and valued, with a safe space to embrace and discuss differences. Our entire team is invested in everyone’s success.

Benefits

NMA offers a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as life and disability coverage. Employees also receive commuter benefits for parking or public transportation, along with paid time off, sick leave, and holidays.

Call (202) 463-2600 for more information on how to apply.