Policy Engagement and Advocacy Manager

the USO•Arlington, VA

15h•Onsite

About The Position

The Policy Engagement and Advocacy Manager advances the organization’s mission through focused public policy research, legislative engagement, and advocacy activities. This role supports and executes policy initiatives by analyzing legislation, preparing materials for public hearings and legislative forums, engaging with policymakers and staff, including the USO Congressional Caucus, executive branch and defense officials, and collaborating with other Military Service Organizations (MSOs), Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), and allied stakeholders on shared policy priorities. Working under the direction of the Director, Government Relations and External Affairs, the Manager plays a critical role in tracking, assessing and advising on public policy, developing testimony and briefing materials, formulating and executing advocacy strategies, and ensuring the organization is informed, prepared, and effectively represented across the Legislative Branch and within the Department of War.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, government, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Minimum of 5–7 years of experience in public policy, legislative affairs, advocacy, or a related field.
Strong understanding of the federal legislative process, including authorizations, appropriations, hearings, and oversight functions.
Demonstrated experience conducting policy research and translating complex issues into clear, actionable written materials.
Ability to make independent judgements on policy areas that are of interest to the organization.
Proven ability to draft testimony, policy briefs, talking points, and preparatory materials for public hearings and legislative engagement.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail and analytical rigor.
Ability to manage multiple priorities, synthesize large volumes of information, and meet tight deadlines.
Professional judgment and discretion in handling sensitive policy positions and stakeholder communications.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and virtual collaboration tools.
Must be a strong advocate of the USO’s mission.
Resume and cover letter are required for full consideration.
Background check – education, criminal and driving required.

Nice To Haves

Background in Defense/Military related issues strongly preferred.
Familiarity with MSOs, VSOs, and nonprofit or advocacy coalitions; experience working collaboratively across organizations preferred.

Responsibilities

Monitor, research, and analyze federal legislation, regulatory proposals, and budgetary actions relevant to the organization’s mission and priorities.
Prepare clear, concise policy analyses, issue briefs, background memos, and legislative summaries for internal leadership and advocacy use.
Track emerging policy trends, stakeholder positions, and political developments to inform advocacy strategies.
Engage directly with congressional and executive branch staff on policy issues that are a priority to the organization.
Assist in the development and execution of advocacy strategies in support of legislative, regulatory, and budget objectives.
Prepare organizational leadership for meetings, briefings, hearings, roundtables, and other legislative engagements.
Draft written testimony, statements for the record, talking points, and briefing packages for congressional hearings.
Lead research, data collection, and internal review processes to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with organizational positions.
Manage witness preparation, including issue framing, anticipated questions, and policy context.
Foster engagement with, and act as main point of contact for the USO Congressional Caucus, MSOs, VSOs, and other allied organizations to identify shared policy interests and opportunities for coordinated advocacy.
Lead coalition based advocacy efforts, joint sign on letters, shared research initiatives, and coordinated messaging where appropriate.
Maintain awareness of partner organizations’ policy priorities to strengthen collaboration and alignment.
Draft and edit policy focused communications including correspondence, advocacy materials, issue one pagers, and internal updates.
Coordinate across internal departments and regional teams to gather programmatic insights that inform policy positions and advocacy efforts.
Assist with advocacy reporting, documentation, and compliance related tracking as directed.
Independently track lobbying efforts and send quarterly reports to the Director of Government Relations and External Affairs for submission.
Other duties as assigned.