David Paul Policy Fellow

American Friends Service Committee•Washington, DC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

The David Paul Policy Fellow is an integral member of the American Friends Service Committee's public policy and advocacy team. The Fellow contributes to policy research, analysis, advocacy strategy, and grassroots engagement in support of AFSC's mission and strategic priorities. Working collaboratively with OPPA staff, the Fellow applies relevant academic, community-based, or professional knowledge to analyze policy developments, develop advocacy materials, and support engagement with policymakers and coalition partners. The fellowship also offers opportunities for continued learning and professional development in public policy and advocacy. This is a full-time, non-exempt hourly position for a specific one-year term. It is based in Washington, D.C., with a hybrid schedule requiring two days per week in the office. Occasional travel for meetings and conferences is required. The role reports to the Director of Public Policy and Strategy and has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent required.
At least one year of relevant applied experience in public policy, advocacy, research, legislative affairs, or related work. Qualifying experience may come from paid employment, internships, community-based advocacy, volunteer service, or substantive academic research and policy projects.
Ability to research and analyze policy issues, synthesize information from multiple sources, prepare written materials for different audiences, and contribute to policy advocacy and engagement activities.
Ability to work evenings and/or weekends and travel as required.
Ability to work effectively independently and as part of a team.
Experience with standard Microsoft Office and related technology.
Ability to work under tight time constraints in a high-volume environment with multiple priorities.
Ability to work and communicate with diverse staff.
Respect for Quaker values and testimonies, and knowledge of and support for AFSC principles and philosophy, including nonviolence and the intrinsic worth of every individual.
Respect for and sensitivity to cultural, ethnic, racial, gender, and religious diversity, and familiarity with nonviolent approaches to problem solving.
Ability to organize, plan ahead, prioritize multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
Dedication to fairness, equity, and inclusion concerning race, class, nationality, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, and disabilities.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Political Science, Public Policy, International Relations, Sociology, or Social Justice, or an equivalent combination of education, community-based learning, lived experience, and relevant policy research or advocacy experience.

Responsibilities

Support thematic policy staff in functions that advance AFSC strategic plan goals related to policy change.
Contribute to strategy and planning processes to identify openings, key contacts, and priority activities.
Gather, analyze, and share information from congressional hearings, coalition meetings, and other sources.
Draft communications and advocacy materials for policymakers, grassroots advocates, and other audiences.
Schedule, support, and participate in congressional and agency meetings for staff and visiting experts on issues relevant to AFSC experience and policy concerns.
Coordinate advocacy days, briefings, trainings, webinars, and other events.
Expand AFSC's social media engagement for policy change.
Travel occasionally for meetings and conferences.
Maintain regular attendance and punctuality, operate safely, and follow policies and procedures.
Perform other duties and projects as assigned.