New Jersey Policy & Advocacy Associate

Regional Plan Association; New Jersey; Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement benefits

Health, vision & dental insurance

Hybrid work schedule (1–2 days in NYC)

Job summary

Regional Plan Association (RPA) is seeking an Associate to advance policy and advocacy in New Jersey, reporting to the VP of State Programs and the New Jersey lead. You will help build relationships with elected officials, coalition partners, and stakeholders on transportation, housing, resilience, and clean energy.

Initial focus includes public transit policy and funding, plus proposals to expand housing production and affordability.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of relevant advocacy experience and managing external relationships.
• Working knowledge of New Jersey government and legislative processes.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders; experience working in teams.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to work independently.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Results-oriented with the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Strong writing, analytical, and public speaking skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment in support of a broad mission.
• NJ residency strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day legislative work in NJ and build support for RPA proposals; monitor state house activity and track legislation/regulations; provide action recommendations.
• Develop and maintain relationships with state legislators and staff, and local elected officials where relevant.
• Support media outreach, deliver public testimony, and prepare presentations.
• Meet with external stakeholders, business groups, and community organizations.
• Support and help coordinate RPA’s NJ Committee, advising on strategy and priorities.
• Coordinate with project partners to organize meetings, forums, and events.
• Manage and develop coalitions, including the Fund NJ Transit Coalition.
• Support grant reporting and other administrative requirements for New Jersey programs and campaigns.

Education

Undergraduate or graduate degree in planning, public policy, economics, political science, or related field

Job description

Regional Plan Association (RPA) is seeking an Associate to advance policy and advocacy in New Jersey, reporting to the VP of State Programs and the New Jersey lead. You will help build relationships with elected officials, coalition partners, and stakeholders on transportation, housing, resilience, and clean energy.

Initial focus includes public transit policy and funding, plus proposals to expand housing production and affordability.