Assistant Director of Policy

SEIU • Washington, DC

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Policy plans, develops, and implements SEIU International’s public policy positions under the direction of the Policy Director. The role works with union officers, leaders, and senior staff to advance federal public policy programs, publications, and legislative and regulatory strategies that address working people’s needs and support SEIU’s union-organizing priorities. It directs and reviews policy analysis and materials, coordinates advocacy with government agencies and representatives, presents SEIU’s positions to varied audiences, develops relationships with strategic partners, and manages professional staff.

The position reports to the Policy Director and works independently. Candidates based in the Washington, DC, or New York City areas are required to work on a hybrid basis from the corresponding SEIU office, including regular weekly in-office attendance and designated in-office days. Work is generally performed in an office but may also involve field assignments. Frequent travel with overnight stays and long, irregular hours are required.

Requirements

• Meet one of the stated education and experience pathways: a bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Public Policy, Political Science, or a related field; or at least 3–5 years of supervisory experience and 5–7 years of work-related experience in policy analysis, including issue development in a political context; or a combination of education and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills, and abilities.
• Ability to develop creative policy solutions that address working people’s needs and support SEIU’s union-organizing priorities.
• Ability to research and analyze policy, monitor relevant policy and industry developments, and prepare or review clear, accurate analysis, testimony, correspondence, and other policy materials.
• Working understanding of federal politics and legislative and regulatory processes, including the ability to assess policy proposals in their political context.
• Experience managing professional staff and coordinating policy work across teams and external partners.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing and verbally, including presenting policy positions to varied audiences.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet established deadlines.
• Ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures and resolve disagreements while maintaining productive relationships.
• Proficiency with computer applications and software used for policy research and analysis.

Nice To Haves

• A master’s degree or other graduate degree.
• Knowledge of public sector employment policy at the federal, state, or local level, or policy affecting private sector service and care industries.
• Knowledge of unions, the labor movement, and other advocacy organizations.
• Experience developing strategy and leading complex national campaigns involving multiple departments, disciplines, and external partners.
• Legislative drafting experience.
• Experience developing and conducting trainings.

Responsibilities

• Work with officers, leaders, and senior staff to develop and advance federal public policy programs, publications, and legislative and regulatory strategies that address working people’s needs and support SEIU’s union-organizing priorities.
• Direct, review, and develop analysis, testimony, correspondence, and other materials on SEIU International’s Legislative and Executive Branch and other public policy positions, ensuring timely and high-quality products.
• Advocate and coordinate advocacy with key federal, state, and local government agencies and representatives, as needed, in coordination with the Government Relations program.
• Develop and present SEIU International’s positions at internal and external conferences, government groups, national commissions, public forums, and before the media around the country.
• Develop relationships with strategic partners, including the labor movement, to advance a common agenda.
• Work closely with other teams in the Government Relations and Politics Hub and with senior staff on other union teams.
• Manage professional staff and coordinate with staff who work on policy issues.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Comprehensive employer-sponsored health benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Defined benefit pension plan.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Additional benefits consistent with a mission-driven workplace.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager