California Legislative Leader & Coalition Director

Commoncause; Sacramento (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Common Cause in California seeks a Legislative Director to set the strategic direction for the organization’s policy agenda at the State Capitol, working closely with the State Director and partners. The role emphasizes building coalitions, advancing democracy reform, and representing the organization in high-level meetings.

The ideal candidate will manage the legislative process, draft legislation, testify at hearings, and lead advocacy campaigns while traveling to the Capitol several days per

Qualifications

• Track record of impactful lobbying efforts and deep knowledge of the California legislative process.
• Strong relationships with state-level policymakers and stakeholders.
• Experience leading advocacy campaigns and coalition-building across diverse partners.

Responsibilities

• Set and execute the long-term strategy for statewide policy development and democracy reform.
• Manage all aspects of the legislative process in California, including drafting legislation and advocacy planning.
• Represent Common Cause in meetings with elected leaders and stakeholders; testify at hearings and negotiate amendments.
• Build and lead coalitions of civil rights, tech/AI, civic engagement, and community organizations.
• Coordinate campaigning, lobbying, grassroots mobilization, and media outreach.
• Speak publicly, write policy briefs, and manage communications related to legislative work.
• Travel within California regularly to the State Capitol and attend sessions as needed.

Skills

California legislative process

Lobbying

Coalition building

Public speaking

Policy analysis

Stakeholder engagement

Tools

Microsoft Office

Slack

Zoom

Job description

Common Cause in California seeks a Legislative Director to set the strategic direction for the organization’s policy agenda at the State Capitol, working closely with the State Director and partners. The role emphasizes building coalitions, advancing democracy reform, and representing the organization in high-level meetings.

The ideal candidate will manage the legislative process, draft legislation, testify at hearings, and lead advocacy campaigns while traveling to the Capitol several days per