The NYSUT Legislative Representative reports to and works along with the Director and Deputy Director of Legislation in developing and executing NYSUT’s legislative priorities, and in coordinating the implementation of state government affairs strategies that advance NYSUT’s advocacy agenda. In addition, the Legislative Representative will work closely with internal and external leaders, including elected officials, community partners, federation networks, and coalition partners, to advance NYSUT’s priorities. This role requires a deep understanding of the legislative process and a commitment to social justice and equity.
Primary Responsibilities:
· Lobby members of the New York State Legislature and Executive Branch;
· Act as legislative representative in support of NYSUT's legislative program;
· Maintain relationships with members of the New York State Legislature and their appropriate staff concerning NYSUT's positions on pending legislation that impacts NYSUT’s locals;
· Work in cooperation with other NYSUT staff to assist in activities in the New York State Capitol and legislative offices;
· Assist the Legislative Department's other legislative staff as requested by the Director of Legislation;
· Assist in the development of legislation, prepare memoranda, conduct research in assigned legislative areas, and prepare reports and recommendations for actions to be taken by the Legislative Department as approved by the Director of Legislation;
· Provide detailed analyses of pending legislation, existing laws, and assigned sections of the annual proposed and enacted state budget;
· Manage and coordinate lobby days involving specific bills or for groups of NYSUT members and coalition alliances;
· Create and deliver presentations to NYSUT members on legislative and programmatic issues at various meeting around the state and online;
· Develop and maintain relationships with other relevant stakeholders to work on common issues of importance;
· Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications:
· Must have experience and expertise in the above areas as well as the ability to work in a number of different support capacities at the same time.
· A background in K-12 educational policy and financing not required but preferred.
· A minimum of 5 years of experience in a related field.
· Exceptional written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
- Demonstrated success at cultivating strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders at all organizational levels to achieve results.
- Knowledge of the American labor movement and its objectives is strongly preferred.
- Willing to work long and irregular hours, including weekends as needed.
NYSUT- Who are we?
NYSUT is a statewide labor organization affiliated with more than 1,200 local unions, each representing its own members. NYSUT is affiliated with two national unions, the American Federation of Teachers (AFT) and the National Education Association (NEA). NYSUT represents nearly 700,000 people who work in, or are retired from, New York's schools, colleges, and healthcare facilities, including teachers, teacher aides and assistants, college and university faculty and professional staff, school bus drivers, custodians, secretaries, cafeteria workers, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. NYSUT’s policy is to ensure an equal employment opportunity to all persons without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by the law.
NYSUT is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. NYSUT is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. Women, people of color, and LGBTQ+ people are encouraged to apply.
At NYSUT, we believe in creating a work environment free of barriers and bias, where individual outlooks and talents are respected and valued.
Why Should You Apply?
· Competitive salary and excellent benefits, including comprehensive medical and dental insurance plans, life and long-term disability plans, and retirement plans
· Generous PTO plan
· Work-life balance
· Collaborative and supportive work environment with a diverse group of experienced professionals
· Opportunity to work in a highly respected organization, make a meaningful difference in the lives of working people, and be a proud part of the labor movement at the local, state, and national levels.
How to Apply:
Interested applicants should submit a cover letter and resume to hr@nysut.org