Senior Legislative Affairs Manager - California & Hawaii

National Association of Social Workers•Sacramento, CA

23h•$85,000 - $100,000

About The Position

The National Association of Social Workers (NASW) is seeking a Senior Legislative Affairs Manager to shape and advance its legislative and policy agenda for the California and Hawaii chapters. This leadership role involves developing and implementing advocacy strategies, providing expert guidance on legislative matters, and drafting legislation. The position requires close collaboration with the Policy Manager, strong policy analysis skills, deep knowledge of legislative processes, and the ability to draft legislation effectively. Additionally, the role provides expert guidance on ethical issues faced by social work professionals and represents NASW in coalitions, provides expert testimony, and builds strategic relationships with lawmakers and advocacy partners.

Requirements

Master's degree in Social Work (MSW), Law (JD), or a related field required.
Licensure as a social worker (LCSW) is strongly preferred.
Deep knowledge of social work ethics and the NASW Code of Ethics is essential.
Demonstrated understanding of policy development, legislative procedures, and advocacy strategies at the state level.
Familiarity with California and Hawaii state legislatures, regulatory processes, and social welfare systems.
Knowledge of issues relevant to the social work profession (e.g., mental health, child welfare, healthcare, licensure, workforce development).
Minimum of 7-10 years of progressively responsible experience in policy advocacy, legislative affairs, or related fields.
At least 3-5 years of experience in legislative drafting and legal advocacy.
Proven experience drafting legislation, amendments, or regulatory comments that have advanced policy goals.
Demonstrated experience leading advocacy campaigns and engaging with state-level policymakers.
Experience providing ethical consultations or legal guidance preferred.
Experience working in or with professional associations, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies is highly desirable.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex legal and policy concepts clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
Strong legislative drafting skills, with demonstrated ability to transform policy ideas into clear, precise legal language.
Strong leadership and collaborative skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and work in a fast-paced, bi-state environment.
Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, with the ability to analyze policy issues, identify ethical considerations, and propose effective solutions.
Proven ability to build relationships, collaborate effectively, and engage with diverse stakeholders.
Strong time management and organizational skills, with the ability to balance competing priorities across two chapters.
Attention to detail and ability to produce high-quality work under tight deadlines.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a coordinated policy team.

Nice To Haves

Licensure as a social worker (LCSW) is strongly preferred.
Experience providing ethical consultations or legal guidance preferred.
Experience working in or with professional associations, nonprofit organizations, or government agencies is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute comprehensive legislative and policy strategies aligned with NASW's mission and goals for both the California and Hawaii chapters.
Conduct thorough research and analysis of relevant policy issues, identifying emerging trends and potential impacts on the social work profession in both states.
Collaborate with the Associate Director, Policy Manager, and other internal stakeholders to prioritize policy issues and develop action plans.
Monitor and analyze legislative and regulatory developments at the state level in California and Hawaii.
Draft legislation, bill proposals, resolutions, and amendments that align with NASW's advocacy priorities.
Analyze existing legislation and propose amendments or revisions.
Lead lobbying efforts to promote NASW's legislative agenda, building and maintaining relationships with policymakers and key stakeholders in both state capitals (Sacramento and Honolulu).
Provide expert testimony and represent NASW's interests during legislative hearings, forums, and public events.
Prepare legislative analyses, bill summaries, and advocacy materials.
Offer legal and ethical guidance to NASW staff, members, and affiliated organizations on matters related to social work practice, licensure, ethics, and other legal issues.
Provide expert consultation to social work professionals on ethical issues and dilemmas.
Collaborate with NASW's Legal Defense Fund and Ethics Committee to support legal efforts and provide strategic guidance.
Develop resources and materials to support social work professionals in navigating ethical dilemmas.
Develop and execute strategies for educating and mobilizing NASW members in grassroots advocacy efforts.
Organize member participation in lobbying campaigns, public hearings, and advocacy days.
Create action alerts and advocacy tools that empower members to engage effectively with their elected officials.
Engage with external stakeholders, including policymakers, government agencies, and advocacy groups, to build strategic partnerships, coalitions, and alliances.
Represent NASW's interests and perspectives in coalitions, meetings, public hearings, and other forums.
Collaborate with other NASW departments, chapters, and affiliated organizations to coordinate policy advocacy efforts.
Develop and deliver educational programs, workshops, and webinars on policy advocacy, legislative processes, and ethical practice.
Stay abreast of emerging policy and ethical issues in social work practice and incorporate relevant updates into training materials.
Participate in conferences, seminars, and other professional events to represent NASW and promote its resources.
Collaborate closely with the Policy Manager to ensure alignment of advocacy strategies and coordinate on legislative priorities.
May provide guidance and mentorship to the Policy Manager and other policy staff or interns.
Work collaboratively with the Associate Director and other department leaders to ensure coordination and strategic alignment.
Performs other related duties as assigned by the Associate Director or Executive Director.