Advocacy and Engagement Specialist

Economic Mobility Pathways, Inc•Boston, MA

1d•$58,000 - $65,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Advocacy and Engagement Specialist plays a vital role in advancing EMPath's advocacy initiatives by empowering participants, strengthening community engagement, and supporting policy efforts that remove barriers to economic mobility. This position works closely with current and former participants to build advocacy skills, increase civic engagement, and elevate participant voices through initiatives such as the Voices Advocacy Council (VAC), Story Sharers Network, legislative campaigns, and voter engagement efforts. In addition to participant engagement, the Specialist serves as a resource to program staff by providing guidance on navigating public benefits, identifying trends that impact families, and developing tools and trainings that strengthen organizational knowledge. Working collaboratively across departments—including Public Policy, Communications, and the Center for Learning and Practice—this role helps ensure participant experiences directly inform EMPath's advocacy priorities. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about racial and economic justice, enjoys building meaningful relationships, and thrives in a collaborative, mission-driven environment.

Requirements

Minimum of five years of relevant experience or demonstrated capability in community engagement, advocacy, public policy, government, legal aid, nonprofit organizations, or related fields. Lived experience is highly valued.
Fluency in both English and Spanish is required.
Experience facilitating trainings, workshops, or presentations, particularly with low-income families or individuals experiencing homelessness.
Strong communication, collaboration, and relationship-building skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, solve problems independently, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrated ability to influence, engage, and build trust with diverse communities and stakeholders.
High attention to detail, accountability, and strong organizational skills.
Self-starter who takes initiative and works effectively with minimal supervision.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, including Outlook, Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Passion for racial equity, economic mobility, and advancing systems change through participant-centered advocacy.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with public benefits systems is preferred.
Experience with Massachusetts and/or federal advocacy efforts is preferred.
Experience or willingness to learn Canva, Mailchimp or similar email marketing platforms, advocacy platforms (such as Salsa Labs), and CRM/database systems.

Responsibilities

Recruit, engage, and support current and former participants in advocacy activities, including the Voices Advocacy Council (VAC), advocacy events, and trainings.
Plan, coordinate, and facilitate Voices Advocacy Council meetings in both English and Spanish while supporting member recruitment and retention.
Build trusted relationships with participants through regular outreach and engagement at EMPath program sites.
Lead voter engagement initiatives by providing education, presentations, and outreach materials.
Gather participant feedback to help shape EMPath's advocacy agenda and policy priorities.
Support the Story Sharers Network, with a focus on engaging Spanish-speaking participants.
Translate written materials and provide interpretation during meetings and events as needed.
Deliver engaging trainings and presentations for participants and staff.
Serve as a resource to mentors navigating public benefits systems, including SNAP, housing, cash assistance, and childcare programs.
Develop practical tools, resources, and guidance that help staff support participants experiencing benefits-related challenges.
Monitor recurring issues and trends to inform internal trainings and advocacy priorities.
Collaborate with program teams to integrate advocacy into participant services.
Partner with the Center for Learning and Practice and the Communications team to develop training materials, newsletters, and advocacy content.
Support legislative and budget advocacy efforts, including organizing lobby days, advocacy campaigns, and public events.
Increase participant and staff involvement in advocacy initiatives.
Represent EMPath at community meetings, coalition events, and external advocacy opportunities.
Manage online advocacy alerts and help increase engagement through EMPath's advocacy platforms.
Maintain participant and advocacy records within Apricot (EMPath's database).
Develop basic communications materials and graphics to support advocacy efforts.
Assist with coordinating interns and volunteers.
Complete additional administrative responsibilities as needed.