Organization Summary

The Center for Rural Affairs is a dynamic, energetic non-profit organization working to build a better rural future for all. We’ve done this work for 52 years and we do it from rural places with a flexible work environment. Our work creates opportunities for beginning farmers, new business owners, and first-time advocates. The Center’s work is rooted in values we’ve held close since 1973. We welcome all applicants and believe that a diversity of people and ideas strengthen our work, our workplace, and our communities.

Position Description

The Policy Associate will report to a Senior Policy Associate or Policy Manager and will work to identify policy gaps, conduct research on potential policy solutions, and work to promote policy priorities. 

Position Details

This is a full-time non-exempt position located in an office location suitable for the Center’s needs. Preference is given to candidates residing in northeast Nebraska, northwest Iowa, southwest Minnesota, or southeast South Dakota. Compensation is commensurate with experience and a comprehensive benefits package that is top-notch will be provided. Travel is required throughout your state. Some regional travel is required.

Duties & Responsibilities

• You will conduct research to identify policy gaps and potential policy solutions, staying current on media and news related to policy work.  
• You will engage with constituents and other stakeholders to gather input and feedback that informs policy priorities.
• You will work alongside supporters to advance policy campaigns.
• You will engage with legislators and legislative staff; county officials; and other local, state, or federal decision makers to educate and promote policy priorities.
• You will author reports, white papers, blogs, opinion pieces, and action alerts regarding policy work.
• You will build and maintain relationships with partner organizations and other key stakeholders.
• You will contribute to work plan development and apply for grants to support policy work.
• You will draft organizing appeals to grassroots constituents including an initial contact email, action alert, or call script.
• You will collaborate with your supervisor and colleagues to continually seek to incorporate the Center's values effectively into internal processes, external programming and communications, and work relationships. 

Preferred Qualifications

• You are an effective communicator developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
• You are able to work effectively with diverse groups of individuals and value differences of race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability, and social-economic circumstances.
• You are a planner and can align and prioritize work to meet commitments and organizational goals.
• You are able to distill complex information into important points and communicate those well in written and verbal forms.
• You enjoy keeping up-to-date on policy, diving into the details and providing high-level summaries for others.
• You are able to use compelling arguments to gain the support and commitment of others.
• You are able to gain the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
• You work collaboratively across the organization with others to meet shared objectives.
• You are adept at research, digging into resources to get to the answer.
• You consistently achieve results, even under tough circumstances.
• You welcome new opportunities, projects, and challenges with a positive outlook.

What Else You Should Know

This is a full-time non exempt position. This position will require occasional travel to meet with community partners and individuals and include both overnight and out-of-state travel on occasion.

Compensation and benefits:

This position has a salary range of $50,000 - $64,000 with top-notch benefits that have a cash value of $10,000 to $29,500, depending on family status and tenure with the Center. Benefits include a 97% employer-paid family health insurance that includes a contribution to a Health Savings Account, retirement options, a fantastic Employee Assistance Program, 12 paid holidays plus paid time off between Christmas Eve and New Year's Day, Friday Summer Hours, and vacation and sick pay.

The Center for Rural Affairs is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in E-Verify, is committed to the full inclusion of all individuals, and takes steps to ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations.