Arena Careers

The Project 83 Regional Specialist serves as a key member of the Michigan Democratic Party’s grassroots organizing team, implementing MDP’s flagship Project 83 initiative across assigned counties. This position focuses on building sustainable Democratic infrastructure, empowering local activists, and strengthening electoral capacity in communities across Michigan.

This is a union position, located in Kent, Ottawa, or Muskegon counties.

About Project 83

Project 83 is the Michigan Democratic Party’s grassroots initiative that empowers local Democrats and activists to organize in their communities across all 83 counties. Launched in 2017, the program focuses on:

• Strengthening local Democratic parties through sustainable growth strategies
• Recruiting and supporting down-ballot candidates while building diverse leadership
• Training volunteers and activists in cutting-edge organizing techniques
• Amplifying the Democratic brand in underrepresented communities

Key Responsibilities

Grassroots Organizing & Capacity Building

• Recruit, train, and manage teams of volunteers to meet voter contact and capacity-building goals
• Develop and implement regional organizing strategies that align with statewide Democratic objectives
• Build and maintain relationships with local Democratic parties, elected officials, and community leaders
• Organize and support year-round community engagement activities and voter outreach programs

Leadership Development & Training

• Identify and develop volunteer leaders to expand local organizing networks
• Provide training on grassroots mobilization, voter engagement, and campaign best practices
• Support local Democratic units in developing organizational plans and sustainable growth strategies
• Coordinate with MDP headquarters to ensure consistent messaging and program implementation

Electoral Support & Candidate Development

• Assist with candidate recruitment and support for local and down-ballot races
• Provide tactical and strategic guidance for local campaigns and ballot initiatives
• Support get-out-the-vote operations and voter registration drives
• Coordinate with regional offices and field teams during election cycles

Data Management & Reporting

• Maintain accurate records of organizing activities, volunteer engagement, and voter contact metrics
• Utilize VAN (Voter Activation Network) and other Democratic Party software systems
• Provide regular reports on regional organizing progress and key performance indicators
• Track and analyze local political trends and opportunities

Required Qualifications

• Experience in political campaigns, grassroots organizing, or community mobilization
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships with diverse constituencies and stakeholders
• Strong communication, public speaking, and interpersonal skills
• Proficiency with political database systems (VAN/VoteBuilder preferred)
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation for extensive travel within assigned region
• Commitment to Democratic values and the mission of the Michigan Democratic Party

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with local parties, Project 83, or similar organizing programs
• Knowledge of Michigan political landscape and local Democratic party structure
• Previous supervisory or team leadership experience
• Bilingual capabilities (Spanish, Arabic, or other languages relevant to regional demographics)
• Experience with digital organizing tools and social media platforms

Working Conditions

• Schedule: Full-time position with irregular hours including evenings and weekends
• Travel: Extensive travel required throughout the assigned regional territory
• Work Environment: Combination of office work, field organizing, and community events
• Physical Requirements: Ability to walk extended distances for canvassing and outdoor events

Compensation & Benefits

Compensation and benefits are determined through a collective bargaining agreement with IBEW Local 1106, including:

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan contributions
• Paid time off and holiday benefits
• Professional development opportunities
• Mileage reimbursement for required travel

Application Instructions

To apply, send your resume, cover letter, and references to j[email protected].

Equal Opportunity

The Michigan Democratic Party is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, including people of color, women, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans.