Government Relations Specialist

MACNY's Job Board•Syracuse, NY

9d•$65,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Manufacturers Association of Central New York (MACNY) seeks a government, legislative, policy, or advocacy professional ready to take the next step in their career. The Government Relations Specialist will develop expertise, build relationships, and help shape a comprehensive advocacy program on behalf of New York manufacturers. The role monitors and analyzes public policy, prepares written advocacy materials, builds relationships with elected officials and their staff, and engages MACNY members in the policymaking process. This is an onsite position, with travel of up to 15% to Albany and other regional locations as needed. Compensation is $65,000–$85,000 per year.

Requirements

Strong research, analytical, and writing skills.
Comfort working with data and using it to support policy analyses and advocacy.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with an interest in building relationships with policymakers, legislative staff, business leaders, and MACNY members.
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-moving environment.
Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, or a similar field of study.
Two to five years of experience in government, public policy, advocacy, government relations, a legislative office, an association, a political campaign, or a related environment.
Strong state experience working with New York State government and legislative processes.
Ability to travel to Albany and other regional locations as needed.
Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for frequent community outreach and engagements within New York State.
Satisfactory background check required.
Ability to sit for prolonged periods and work on a computer.
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds at times.

Responsibilities

Monitor and analyze New York State legislation, regulations, budget proposals, agency actions, and emerging policy issues for their potential impact on manufacturers, employees, investment, and economic growth.
Use economic, workforce, tax, energy, healthcare, regulatory, and other data to inform MACNY policy positions and strengthen advocacy efforts.
Draft support and opposition memoranda, policy briefs, comment letters, testimony, legislative correspondence, talking points, and other advocacy materials.
Support grassroots advocacy, including action alerts, member letters, testimony, and direct engagement with policymakers.
Develop and maintain working relationships with New York State elected officials, legislative staff, state agencies, and other government stakeholders.
Help expand MACNY’s presence in Albany through legislative meetings, hearings, advocacy activities, and other opportunities.
Engage regularly with MACNY members to identify policy concerns and understand how government decisions affect their businesses and employees.
Build a network of manufacturers willing to participate in meetings, provide testimony and data, share their stories, and advocate on priority issues.
Create timely policy content for MACNY’s website, social media pages, newsletters, advocacy platform, and other member communications.
Develop fact sheets, FAQs, talking points, and other resources that make public policy accessible and actionable for MACNY members.
Use data and member stories to demonstrate the real-world impact of public policy on manufacturers and their employees.
Perform other duties as assigned.