Disability Policy Advocate & Public Affairs Lead

Disability Rights Texas; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 72,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Disability Rights Texas seeks a Policy Specialist in Austin to lead the organization’s policy advocacy for mental health and disability rights. This role focuses on research, analysis, and public engagement to advance rights in state and national contexts.

You will train staff, prepare policy reports, and present complex information to legislators, boards, and stakeholders. The IRCL team collaborates across agencies to defend the rights of people with disabilities in institutions and community

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in related field.
• At least 7 years public policy experience with disability focus.
• Strong writing, verbal, and negotiating communications skills.
• Experience with public speaking and presentations for boards, conferences, or legislative testimony.
• MS Office proficiency and data handling.

Responsibilities

• Serve as in-house expert on assigned policy issues.
• Lead agency policy advocacy and training for staff.
• Produce policy reports and disseminate communications to stakeholders.
• Track and report on legislative and administrative actions.
• Present public statements and testify when needed.
• Coordinate planning and reporting for organizational programs.
• Collaborate with state and national advocacy groups.

Skills

Policy advocacy

Public speaking

Technical writing

Interpersonal skills

Public policy knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Government, Education, Disability Studies, Social Service or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Disability Rights Texas seeks a Policy Specialist in Austin to lead the organization’s policy advocacy for mental health and disability rights. This role focuses on research, analysis, and public engagement to advance rights in state and national contexts.

You will train staff, prepare policy reports, and present complex information to legislators, boards, and stakeholders. The IRCL team collaborates across agencies to defend the rights of people with disabilities in institutions and community