Senior Government Affairs Strategist

ACLU-NJ; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

ACLU-NJ seeks an Associate Director of Government Affairs to lead government relations across local, state, and federal levels in order to advance civil liberties priorities.

The role involves serving as a principal external representative, shaping advocacy strategy, and guiding a portfolio of policy campaigns with senior leadership. Based primarily in Trenton, the position requires travel around the state and collaboration with the New Jersey legislature and executive agencies.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated track record of building and maintaining effective, trust-based relationships with elected officials and government staff.
• Experience working in, or directly with, New Jersey state government or the New Jersey legislature strongly preferred.
• Experience in civil rights, nonprofit advocacy, or a mission-driven organization preferred.
• Experience with federal legislative or administrative advocacy a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop, cultivate, and manage strategic relationships with elected officials, legislative staff, and executive branch officials at the local, state, and federal levels.
• Serve as an external representative in meetings with legislators, congressional staff, and government agencies.
• Advocate on behalf of the ACLU-NJ’s positions with legislators and executive branch officials, alongside subject matter experts.
• Represent the organization at legislative hearings, briefings, press events, lobby days, and other government-facing engagements.

Skills

Relationship building

Legislative knowledge

Policy advocacy

Strategic thinking

Public speaking

Job description

ACLU-NJ seeks an Associate Director of Government Affairs to lead government relations across local, state, and federal levels in order to advance civil liberties priorities.

The role involves serving as a principal external representative, shaping advocacy strategy, and guiding a portfolio of policy campaigns with senior leadership. Based primarily in Trenton, the position requires travel around the state and collaboration with the New Jersey legislature and executive agencies.