Rural Justice Program Lead & Strategic Advocate

California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc.; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. (CRLA) seeks an Associate Director for the Rural Justice Program to lead and support the CRLA Justice Centers.

The role mentors 5-8 Center Directors and may serve as Acting Center Director in vacancies, bridging local and statewide advocacy to advance civil rights and equity. You will coordinate local advocacy with statewide initiatives, review regional cases, engage partners, and ensure policy compliance.

Qualifications

• At least 6 years of experience working with historically marginalized populations.
• At least 4 years in program management or supervisory roles.
• Minimum 6 years in advocacy roles, with most experience as an attorney.
• Bar admission in California or willingness to take the California Bar Exam.

Responsibilities

• Supervise 5-8 Justice Center Directors and mentor CRLA staff.
• Align local advocacy with statewide systemic initiatives and review regional cases.
• Engage with community partners and represent CRLA in public forums and events.
• Provide senior oversight on complex litigation and systemic initiatives.
• Assist in strategic planning, logic models, and evaluating outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Program management

Advocacy

Mentorship

Education

California Bar admission or admission to another State Bar

Job description

California Rural Legal Assistance, Inc. (CRLA) seeks an Associate Director for the Rural Justice Program to lead and support the CRLA Justice Centers.

The role mentors 5-8 Center Directors and may serve as Acting Center Director in vacancies, bridging local and statewide advocacy to advance civil rights and equity. You will coordinate local advocacy with statewide initiatives, review regional cases, engage partners, and ensure policy compliance.