Specialist, State & Local Affairs

The American Institute of Architects • Washington, DC

2d • $57,000 - $65,000 • Remote

About The Position

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is seeking a Specialist, State & Local Affairs to advocate for the value of architecture and provide resources for architects and design professionals. The role supports AIA's mission and values, including equity, human rights, community strengthening, sustainability, climate change protection, economic opportunity, and investing in the future. AIA is committed to building a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the architecture profession to create a better built environment for all, impacting the profession's relevance and global prosperity, health, and future.

Requirements

• Strong organizational and project coordination skills with exceptional attention to detail.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to conduct policy, legislative, and regulatory research and summarize findings clearly.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build productive working relationships.
• Sound judgment and ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Commitment to producing high-quality work and meeting deadlines.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and standard collaboration tools.

Nice To Haves

• Experience or interest in public policy, government affairs, advocacy, or nonprofit organizations.
• Familiarity with state and local government processes.
• Experience supporting meetings, events, or volunteer committees.
• Knowledge of the architecture, design, construction, or built environment industries is preferred.
• Experience conducting policy or legislative research.
• Experience working with membership organizations, associations, or public-sector stakeholders.
• Familiarity with project management or CRM platforms is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Support the Senior Director of State and Local Affairs in implementing annual work plans and program priorities.
• Conduct research on state and local legislative, regulatory, and policy developments affecting architects and the built environment.
• Monitor policy developments and maintain issue trackers, legislative summaries, and project documentation.
• Assist in preparing briefing materials, presentations, issue papers, talking points, advocacy resources, and meeting materials.
• Coordinate meetings, agendas, follow-up actions, and project timelines for internal and external stakeholders.
• Draft communications, newsletters, website content, social media updates, and member-facing materials supporting state and local advocacy initiatives.
• Respond to member inquiries and coordinate information requests related to assigned policy areas.
• Support volunteer committees, member leadership groups, and component engagement activities through meeting preparation and communications.
• Assist with planning and logistics for advocacy events, conferences, fly-ins, webinars, and stakeholder meetings.
• Provide project management and coordination support to the Senior Director of Intergovernmental Affairs on initiatives involving the U.S. Conference of Mayors, National Governors Association, and other strategic governmental organizations.
• Help maintain relationships and coordinate communications with external partners, coalition organizations, and government stakeholders.
• Collaborate with colleagues across Government Affairs, Communications, Knowledge & Practice, and other departments to advance advocacy initiatives.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Medical and dental
• 401(k)
• Flexibility
• Paid time off
• Parental Leave
• Flexible spending accounts
• Income protection- (Life Insurance Coverage up to 2x salary) & disability plans at no cost.
• Tuition and membership reimbursements
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for employees and their family members
• SmartBenefits transportation program, featuring up to $55 monthly in public transportation as well as pretax METRO parking
• Computer purchase program
• Fitness club discounts
• Prepaid legal services program
• Identity theft protection

What This Job Offers

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