Legislative Specialist - States

over 2 years ago
Full time role
Washington, DC, US... more
Washington, DC, US... more

Company

The Good Food Institute is a nonprofit working internationally to accelerate alternative protein innovation. Globally, meat consumption is the highest it’s ...

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Job Description

Leverage the power of state legislatures to transform the food system

The Good Food Institute (GFI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization 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 lead the Policy Department’s state legislative efforts, campaigning in favor of the use of public research and development funds for alternative proteins and defending against label censorship laws that would ban terms like “vegan sausage.” The Legislative Specialist (States) will be responsible for:

  • Developing and maintaining relationships with state elected officials, lobbyists, and allied organizations to influence the outcome of state legislation. 
  • Ensuring that the Good Food Institute is poised to respond quickly and effectively to state bills by tracking state legislation and developing campaign plans.
  • Directly lobbying elected officials at the state level around the country.
  • Coordinating contract lobbyists to ensure that they are delivering results aligned with GFI’s mission.
  • Drafting persuasive letters, correspondence, fact sheets, and op-eds. 
  • Working with the Associate Director of Policy and VP of Policy to establish and adhere to a budget for state lobbying activities. 
  • Working with the Legal department to ensure that we comply with lobbying requirements in all states. 
  • Performing other duties as assigned.
Who We’re Looking For 

The Legislative Specialist (States) must have:

  • At least two years of experience working with state legislative offices and officials.
  • Enthusiasm for lobbying, which can include travel and long hours. 
  • The ability to persuade a wide range of people and excellent attention to detail in writing. 
  • A general understanding of political systems and an ability to learn the legislative procedures of various states quickly.
  • 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. 
  • Comfort working in a rapidly growing and evolving organization.
  • Strong support for GFI’s philosophy and mission; demonstrated interest in public health, environmentalism, free markets, or hunger relief.

The ideal candidate would also have:

  • A law degree.
  • Experience as a legislative staffer at the state or federal level. Experience supervising outside contractors.
  • 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.

Research indicates that men tend to apply for jobs when they meet just 60% of the criteria, while women and people from other marginalized groups only apply if they are a 100% match. If you are passionate about GFI’s mission and think you have what it takes to be successful in this role even if you don’t check all the boxes, please apply. We’d appreciate the opportunity to consider your application. 

The Fine Print
  • Terms of employment: Full-time, exempt
  • Reports to: Mike Ryan, Associate Director of Policy
  • Location: Farragut Square, Washington, D.C. 
  • Travel: Four to five weeks per year.
  • 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: $65,000-$75,000 (dependent on experience and qualifications)

Application Deadline: Rolling

If after reviewing this job description, you have decided not to apply, please let us know why by completing this short survey. You can also sign-up to receive our newsletter with information about current and upcoming open roles at GFI and to let us know what types of roles you are interested in!

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