Senior Legislative Specialist

Lobby Congress for policies that will transform the world

The Good Food Institute (GFI) is at the forefront of the movement to use food technology and markets to solve some of the world’s biggest problems, from climate change and global hunger to antibiotic resistance and the exploitation of animals. 

How You Will Make a Difference
In this role, you will have the opportunity to lobby for essential research funding and policies that level the playing field for alternative proteins. The Senior Legislative Specialist will be responsible for:

• Building and maintaining relationships with congressional offices on issues of importance to advancing alternative protein research, with a focus on obtaining federal funding for alternative protein research.
• Drafting legislative language and writing letters, comments, policy briefs, and fact sheets to support GFI’s policy priorities.
• Collaborating with other GFI staff to showcase their expertise via Hill visits and congressional briefings.
• Promptly and accurately recording all time and money spent lobbying.
• Performing other duties as assigned.

Who We’re Looking For
The Senior Legislative Specialist must have:

• A minimum of three years’ federal lobbying experience or experience working in a legislative office or committee.
• The ability to communicate effectively with both Republican and Democratic members of Congress and their staff.
• A working understanding of the federal legislative process.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate complex information clearly in writing and in oral presentations.
• A strong work ethic and self-motivation, including the desire to spend a significant amount of time on Capitol Hill.
• A solutions-oriented mindset.
• A high degree of organization and efficiency.
• Exceptional attention to detail.
• The ability to work well independently and under pressure, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines.
• The ability to work creatively and effectively as a member of a team.
• Strong support for GFI’s philosophy and mission.

The ideal candidate would also have:

• A J.D. or master’s degree in policy or political science.
• Experience building coalitions and developing consensus among partners with different but complementary objectives.
• Experience working for the federal government.
• Demonstrated interest in public health, environmentalism, consumer choice, free speech, animal protection, or hunger relief.
• The ability to contribute to the diversity of ideas and backgrounds on the Policy team.

We want the best people and we don’t want biases holding us back. We strongly encourage people of every color, orientation, age, gender, origin, and ability to apply. Because we value a diverse workplace, we prioritize an inclusive climate absent of discrimination and harassment during the application process and after you join the team.

The Fine Print

• Terms of employment: Full-time, exempt
• Reports to:Michael Ryan, Associate Policy Director
• Location: Farragut Square, Washington, D.C. 
• Travel: Up to two weeks per year for company retreats.
• Benefits: Full medical coverage, optional dental and vision packages, a 401(k) plan with employer match, flexible holiday and vacation plans, opportunity for advancement, respectful managers, and supportive colleagues.
• This is a U.S.-based position: In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.
• Salary: $73,000-$83,000

Applications accepted on a rolling basis