Rural Disability Policy Advocate

Disability Rights Texas; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Disability Rights Texas is seeking a Policy Specialist for the Rural Justice Initiative in Austin, TX. The role leads policy advocacy, conducts research, and collaborates with statewide partners to advance civil rights for people with disabilities.

The position is project-funded, full-time, exempt, and union-eligible, reporting to the Supervising Attorney of Education. It requires policy expertise and strong stakeholder engagement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy, Political Science, Government, Education, Disability Studies, Social Services, or related field.
• 7+ years of relevant public policy, legislative, governmental, regulatory, advocacy experience.
• Experience with disability-related issues and advocacy.
• Strong writing and analytical skills for policy briefs and reports.

Responsibilities

• Develop and analyze policy issues affecting Texans with disabilities in rural and underserved communities.
• Monitor legislation, regulatory changes, and administrative policies.
• Prepare policy briefs, issue summaries, talking points, and advocacy materials.
• Collaborate with RJI staff and external partners to shape policy priorities.

Skills

Policy analysis

Public policy

Strong writing

Stakeholder engagement

Research

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Public Policy or related field

Tools

Microsoft 365

Job description

Disability Rights Texas is seeking a Policy Specialist for the Rural Justice Initiative in Austin, TX. The role leads policy advocacy, conducts research, and collaborates with statewide partners to advance civil rights for people with disabilities.

The position is project-funded, full-time, exempt, and union-eligible, reporting to the Supervising Attorney of Education. It requires policy expertise and strong stakeholder engagement.