Arena Careers

The Parkside Group, New York’s leading full-service public affairs firm, is seeking a Policy Associate to join our Government Relations team in Albany. This role will provide a blend of policy support, administrative assistance, office management, and scheduling to the entire Albany team, but report directly to a Vice President of Government Relations in the Albany office.

Our company is committed to diversity and believes that our continued success has been made possible by hiring, retaining, promoting, and encouraging the people on our team. Women, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA community, and those who identify as disabled are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Accountabilities & Policy Engagement:

• Hearing & Event Coverage: Attend public hearings, briefings, and advocacy events at the Capitol, providing timely summaries and reports to internal teams and clients.
• Legislative Tracking & Policy Monitoring: Assist our Legislative team in their daily review of newly introduced bills and legislative developments in the NYS Legislature.
• Research & Analysis: Conduct background research on legislative issues, elected officials, and policy history. Present findings in a clear, concise format.
• Client Communications: Contribute to client newsletters on key policy issues.

Administrative Support, Scheduling & Office Management:

• Office Management: Support the Albany office's day-to-day operations, ensuring supplies are stocked and equipment is maintained. Collaborate with the Vice President of Administration to ensure the office runs efficiently.
• Administrative Assistance: Provide administrative support, including document preparation for advocacy days, managing correspondence, and organizing files.
• Client & Visitor Management: Welcome clients to the Albany office and assist with their needs.
• Scheduling: Schedule internal and external meetings and coordinate client engagements.

Core Competencies:

• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex information in a streamlined way.
• Exceptional organizational skills with a keen attention to detail, especially in managing scheduling and office operations.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and prioritize in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Candidates with familiarity with NYS government and legislative processes will be given priority.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience in government relations, lobbying / advocacy, policy analysis, or administrative support; Candidates with 10+ years of prior government experience will be given priority.
• Experience in office management and scheduling, with strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Because this position involves interacting with the New York State Legislature, anyone who has been employed by the Legislature within the past two years will not be considered because of the post-employment restrictions that apply to legislative staff and interns under the Public Officers Law.

Why Join Us?

• A competitive salary and performance-based annual bonus. Anticipated salary range is $60,000 - $70,000.
• A team committed to your professional development and growth with promotion-track opportunities. As you grow in this position, you will have the opportunity to grow within the company, taking on additional responsibilities that can include working directly with clients and engaging at the Capitol.
• Company-sponsored medical, dental, and vision benefits. Individual coverage is 100% employer paid; dependent coverage available with cost split.
• Retirement planning, available to all permanent employees after the vesting period.
• Generous PTO plan; 20 days available each year with a progressive model that increases after 3 years of employment. PTO is prorated based on the initial date of hire in year 1.
• 12 paid company-recognized holidays.
• Pre-tax commuter benefits via WageWorks.
• Mobile phone stipend or plans available.
• Our company continues to honor a hybrid (home and office) policy, but the candidate must be willing to go into the Albany office as often as needed.
• Snacks and beverages to keep you fueled and hydrated on busy days.

This role offers the chance to contribute to impactful public policy efforts while working within a dynamic and supportive team environment.

In order to be considered, please submit resume via email to Hiring@TheParksideGroup.com