AFSCME: Political and Legislative Advocacy Apprentice

LOCATION

SALARY

COMPANY

DEPARTMENT

EMPLOYMENT TYPE

JOB DESCRIPTION

**DESCRIPTION: **AFSCME’s Political Action Department seeks candidates interested in a 24-month apprenticeship program in progressive political action and legislative advocacy. The program includes training and hands-on experience in coalition building, lobbying, communications, and basic organizing skills on field-based campaigns for individuals interested in pursuing careers with public interest organizations, political parties, advocacy groups and/or labor organizations. Political Action and Legislative Advocacy Apprentices work with AFSCME and our affiliates, other labor unions and progressive organizations on grassroots campaigns of critical importance to workers and their families.

DUTIES:

Lobby the NYS Legislature and Executive Chamber on issues of importance to AFSCME membership.

Attend legislative committee meetings and budget hearings; track relevant legislation.

Responsible for implementing legislative grassroots action plans including email outreach, phone/text and earned media campaigns, highlighting issues important to our union membership.

Work with AFSCME NY Political Action Director and Representative to develop and execute campaign plans and strategies in assigned area.

Develop and maintain relationships with union members, leaders, elected officials and key staff.

Raise funds from AFSCME members for our PEOPLE PAC.

Build, train and maintain network of political activists and PEOPLE contributors.

Assess the political climate, candidates and campaigns and prepare reports on potential opportunities and challenges.

Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university and a minimum of one (1) year of related work experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the following knowledge, skills and abilities:

Knowledge of unions and their political programs;

Knowledge of the political and legislative process;

Familiar with online voter database;

Knowledge of organizing and campaign activities;

Possesses leadership and motivational skills

Exhibits good oral and written communications skills.

Valid driver’s license and automobile, variable work schedules, and occasional availability for short-term travel for temporary assignments are necessary.

Selected applicants will be responsible for relocating to assigned area.

AFSCME is an equal opportunity employer, and, as such, does not discriminate an employee or applicant on the basis of race, creed, color, age, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, religious affiliation, disability, or any other classification protected from discrimination under applicable law.