Position Description: The Government Affairs Specialist is a full-time position based in Washington, DC that supports NACD’s federal advocacy and policy agenda by leading analysis within assigned issue areas and supporting legislative and stakeholder engagement efforts. This role applies independent analytical judgment while operating within Director-approved policy and advocacy frameworks. The Specialist serves as a subject-matter resource and supports NACD leadership and members through policy analysis, communications, and grassroots advocacy execution. 

Duties and Responsibilities 

NACD Advocacy  

• Analyzes and tracks legislation, regulations, and administrative actions related to natural resources conservation and assesses implications for conservation districts. 
• Prepares background research, summaries, and analyses to inform NACD advocacy positions. 
• Assists in preparing briefings, talking points, testimony, letters, position papers, and regulatory comments. 

Legislative and Policy Engagement 

• Serves as point staff for assigned policy or legislative issue areas, committees, or initiatives. 
• Supports meetings with congressional offices, federal agencies, coalitions, and partners by preparing materials, participating in meetings, and coordinating follow-up actions. 
• Monitors emerging legislative and policy developments and flags issues; keeps NACD leaders and staff up to date with Government Affairs priorities through regular briefings and weekly written communications, blogs, and other analyses. 

Member and Partner Engagement 

• Maintains working relationships with NACD’s members, Congressional offices, federal agencies, coalitions, and partner organizations. 
• Supports NACD’s participation in coalitions and working groups to advance mutual conservation priorities. 

NACD Membership Support  

• Supports communication with conservation districts and state associations to gather input and elevate grassroots perspectives. 
• Responds to member policy inquiries and supports NACD’s member-driven, grassroots advocacy framework. 
• May serve as staff lead for assigned subcommittees, initiatives, or working groups. 
• Supports NACD’s policy development and resolutions process by developing background and communications materials, working with members to refine policy statements, and supporting the overall policy development process.  
• Leads government affairs–related grant deliverables, including coordination, documentation, and reporting, as assigned. 
• Assists in planning and execution of NACD conferences, meetings, and advocacy events such as Spring Legislative Fly-In. 

Other Duties 

• Performs other duties as assigned that advance NACD’s mission and strategic objectives. 

Required Skills and Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced coursework or experience in public policy preferred. 
• At least 4 years experience in federal policy, advocacy, government relations, or related experience. 
• Significant professional experience working with Congress and federal agencies.  
• Strong analytical, writing, and relationship-management skills. 
• Ability to manage multiple issue areas and deadlines. 
• Willingness to travel as required. 

Location: This position is located in NACD’s Headquarters in Washington, D.C. This position reports to the NACD Director of Government Affairs.