Policy Associate

Job Title: Policy Associate

Organization: Lone Star Justice Alliance (LSJA)

Location: Austin, Texas

Reports To: Director of Advocacy and Government Relations

The Policy Associate will support the Director of Advocacy and Government Relations in advancing Lone Star Justice Alliance’s (LSJA) policy initiatives. The associate will conduct research, track legislative developments, coordinate advocacy efforts, and engage with stakeholders to promote LSJA’s mission of transforming the justice system. This position is based in Austin, Texas, and will be responsible for both the statewide policy work of the Lone Star Justice Alliance, outlined at lonestarjusticealliance.org, and the coalition’s work of the Central Texas Opportunity Youth Collaborative.

Key Responsibilities:

Policy Research and Analysis:
– Conduct research on legislative, regulatory, and policy issues related to LSJA’s mission.
– Prepare policy briefs, reports, and memoranda to inform internal and external stakeholders.
– Monitor and summarize legislative and regulatory developments at the local, state, and federal levels.

Advocacy Support:
– Assist in developing advocacy strategies and campaigns to advance LSJA’s policy objectives.
– Support the preparation of testimony, talking points, and other materials for legislative and public hearings.
– Coordinate grassroots and grasstops engagement efforts, including organizing advocacy days, meetings with policymakers, and community events.

Stakeholder Engagement:
– Collaborate with community partners, coalitions, and advocacy groups to align efforts and amplify impact.
– Assist in maintaining relationships with policymakers, government agencies, and advocacy organizations.
– Represent LSJA at meetings, forums, and public events as assigned.

Administrative and Logistical Support:
– Maintain records of advocacy activities, including legislative tracking, meeting notes, and correspondence.
– Assist with scheduling, coordination, and preparation for advocacy-related events and initiatives.
– Provide logistical support for advocacy team projects, including managing event details and communications.

Communications Support:
– Collaborate with the communications team to align messaging on policy initiatives.
– Draft content for newsletters, social media, and other platforms to highlight advocacy work.
– Assist in preparing presentations and materials for public and internal audiences.

Qualifications:
– Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, social work, or a related field.
– 1-3 years of experience in advocacy, policy research, or related work (internship experience considered).
– Strong research, writing, and analytical skills.
– Familiarity with legislative processes and policy development.
– Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
– Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
– Passion for social justice and alignment with LSJA’s mission and values.
– Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software.

Compensation and Benefits:
– Annual salary of $55,000 – $65,000, commensurate with experience.
– Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, and retirement plan options.

Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and a brief writing sample to ehenneke@lsja.org. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority consideration given to those received by December 20, 2024.

About Lone Star Justice Alliance:
Lone Star Justice Alliance (LSJA) is a Texas-based nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming the justice system to improve outcomes for youth and emerging adults. By advocating for innovative, community-based solutions, LSJA seeks to create a justice system that is fair, equitable, and restorative.