Senior Policy Associate, Agriculture & Conservation – Iowa

Senior Policy Associate Position

The Center for Rural Affairs is seeking a highly qualified candidate to serve as a Senior Policy Associate based in Iowa. The ideal candidate will work on identifying policy gaps, conducting research on potential solutions, and promoting policy priorities related to agriculture and conservation issues. Preference will be given to candidates who can office in Nevada one or more days per week.

Who We Are

The Center for Rural Affairs is a dynamic, energetic non-profit organization working to build a better rural future for all. Our work creates opportunities for beginning farmers, new business owners, and first-time advocates. The Center’s work is rooted in principles of diversity and inclusion. Additional information can be found at www.cfra.org.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and assist with the Policy team’s major efforts
• Interview, onboard, train, and manage assigned staff and interns
• Conduct research to inform policy work
• Draft and edit media communications
• Build and maintain relationships with external constituencies
• Represent the organization at conferences and events
• Assist in strategy development and grant applications
• Collaborate to incorporate DEI principles effectively

Who You Are & Keys to Success

1. Relationship-building: Develop strong collaborative relationships with team members and stakeholders.
2. Drive to achieve results: Accomplish ambitious goals and plan ahead to overcome obstacles.
3. Inclusive leadership and management: Approach leadership collaboratively and seek input from others.
4. Setting and managing priorities: Experience managing multiple projects and providing clear direction.
5. Commitment to racial equity and social justice: Recognize disparities and amplify community voices.

If You Were Here Right Now

You would be meeting regularly with the Agriculture & Conservation portfolio manager, using advocacy skills to influence policy-making decisions, providing clear communications to unique audiences, building relationships with key stakeholders, and educating elected officials.

Experience Required

• Keeping up-to-date on policy and providing high-level summaries
• Researching and uncovering resources impacting issues
• Writing opinion pieces, white papers, and/or reports
• Engaging in advocacy and advancing ideas or issues
• Collaborating within and across teams
• Managing projects and supervising staff
• Writing and applying for programmatic grant funding

What Else You Should Know

This is a full-time non-exempt position based in Iowa with a preference for our Nevada office location. Occasional travel is required. Salary range: $54,500- $60,000 with top-notch benefits.

How to Apply

Apply by sending your resume, cover letter, and three professional references by clicking here. Include how your experiences have positioned you for success in this role and any Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion or Racial Equity-related work. Let us know how you heard about this position and why you want to work for the Center.