Lobbyist (2-year Term position)

Position Summary: The essential functions of this position include developing and maintaining effective bipartisan working relationships with members of Congress, the federal executive branch, and other national policy-makers. The incumbent advocates and coordinates support for NEA's position on federal policies and legislation, develops strategies and approaches for effective advocacy, and researches, analyzes, and evaluates federal issues, legislation, rules and regulations. The incumbent also researches legislative issues and assists in the development of testimony, model legislation, position papers, and reports; and works with the NEA leaders and field staff to be influential in the legislative process in support of the Association's federal legislative program. In addition, the incumbent makes oral presentations and attends political events, responds to press inquiries, works on campaigns and evaluates NEA's position on federal education and related legislative policies important to NEA, its affiliates and its members. To carry out responsibilities, the employee uses a personal computer, associated software, other office technology and travels occasionally.

Qualifications: Minimum Education Requirement: Bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Public Affairs, or related field or an equivalent combination of education and experience from which comparable knowledge and skills may be obtained. Relevant advanced degree preferred. Minimum Qualifications: Five years professional lobbying experience involving political action or government relations at federal or state level. Experience in public policy advocacy at the state or federal level or experience in legislative or executive branch work at the state or federal level or Capitol Hill lobbying experience or combination of the above. Other Requirements: Writing samples (testimony, position papers, etc.), or samples of recent work products may be required at time of interview. Must be available to work evenings or weekends on very short notice. Some travel required.

Selection Criteria: Tier 1 (Essential): Extensive working knowledge and experience on Capitol Hill with Congressional and executive branch processes and procedures. Demonstrated proficient knowledge of select legislative issues, which may include labor, workforce, job training, education, and among other issues. Proven federal legislative advocacy skills, including demonstrated advanced verbal and written communication skills. Demonstrated experience researching, analyzing, and evaluating federal issues, rules, regulations and legislation. Demonstrated high-level and effective interpersonal skills, including demonstrated ability to establish and maintain effective bipartisan working relationships, and demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively on internal and external teams. Experience in and willingness to work in a frenetic and fluid legislative/political environment. Proven flexibility and effectiveness in handling multiple and complex projects simultaneously under stringent timeframes and changing priorities/conditions. Successful references. Tier 2 (Significant): Knowledge of the federal legislative process. Established relationships with key Congressional staff, as well as other education advocacy organizations. Proven awareness of current political environment and on-going strategic implications that affect NEA’s legislative and political activities. Tier 3 (Desirable): Experience educating internal and external audiences about NEA political agenda. Demonstrated ability of reaching out and strategically utilize grassroots membership to advance a policy agenda. Knowledge of Government Relation’s mission and strategic objectives.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the following is provided:  The position involves skill in using a computer and/or laptop; oral and written communication skills; skills in proofreading and editing; use of clear and articulate speech; interpersonal relations skills; reasoning and problem-solving skills; ability to work in a fast-paced environment; ability to sit for long periods, stoop, bend, reach and carry light materials (up to 10 lbs.); and ability to travel by various methods of transportation, e.g., airplane, car.

NEA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, or disability. Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal. To apply for this position or to search for other openings, please go to our jobs page at Careers at NEA (myworkdayjobs.com)  

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NEA complies with the DC Wage Transparency Act of 2023.