The Policy Associate is a new position that will be responsible for day-to-day grassroots and statewide advocacy operations and activities to further AAPI New Jersey’s primarily local and statewide policy agenda, with an emerging national reach. The position will participate and build coalitions within the pan-AAPI community and play a vital role in coalition partnerships. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic, entrepreneurial individual to join us at a critical time of growth, with strong potential for advancement as our organization grows. We anticipate this position providing the ideal candidate with ample opportunities for growth.
Reports to: AAPI New Jersey’s Policy & Advocacy Advisor and Co-Executive Directors
Primary Responsibilities
In collaboration with the Policy & Advocacy Advisor, responsibilities include::
Policy & Advocacy
Serve as a day-to-day point person on key advocacy and legislative priorities, as assigned by Policy & Advocacy Advisor and Co-Executive Director
Help develop and manage advocacy and campaign strategy
Monitor legislation, draft memoranda and correspondence
Help build relationships with legislative offices, government agencies and Governor’s Office
Help develop and manage advocacy and campaign strategy
Help identify and support campaigns within the larger advocacy landscape
Draft a variety of written materials including policy memos, letters, and outreach
Research and develop messaging tools, social media posts, e-blasts, and web content to support advocacy efforts in coordination with the Communications lead
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required; graduate student or graduate degree a plus
Strong research, analytical and writing skills
Ability to communicate to a variety of audiences and represent organization
Ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects and assignments in a faster pace environment
Strong emotional intelligence and ability to work with diverse communities, groups, and individuals
Ability to navigate and work in a startup environment
Self-directed and ability to work with minimal supervision
Previous experience as advocate and demonstrated commitment to racial justice and intersectional advocacy
Ideal candidate will excel in developing social media content
Proficiency in an Asian language is a plus
Proficiency in or ability to learn software skills including Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint), Canva, Slack, Adobe Acrobat, and Google Workspace (Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, and Gmail).
Frequent travel within New Jersey required. Valid driver’s license and willingness to drive own vehicle preferred (mileage will be reimbursed).
Location
This will be a hybrid (mainly work from home) with travel throughout New Jersey and to AAPI NJ’s office in Montclair.
About AAPI New Jersey
AAPI New Jersey (formerly AAPI Montclair) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 2021 to advocate for Asian American and Pacific Islander rights and representation and to promote awareness and education around AAPI culture and history throughout New Jersey. Through various initiatives, AAPI Montclair seeks to create structural change, build solidarity among communities, fight for equity for all oppressed groups, while celebrating AAPI cultures. Since its founding, AAPI Montclair has grown from a small group of dedicated volunteers responding to the rise of anti-Asian hate to a nationally recognized organization supported by thousands, implementing the teaching of AAPI curriculum through its impactful program TAAS (Teaching Asian American Stories) and creating a model for AAPI community mobilization. Learn more about our organization at aapimontclair.org.
Seniority level
Entry level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Research, Writing/Editing, and Public Relations
Industries
Education Administration Programs and Civic and Social Organizations
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