Policy Counsel- American Civil Liberties Union- NJ

The American Civil Liberties Union of New Jersey is looking for a Policy Counsel to join our team. We are seeking a passionate and dedicated attorney to support the ACLU of New Jersey's Policy Department in its legislative program and policy advocacy efforts.

Responsibilities

Conduct legal and policy research and analysis related to the ACLU-NJ's advocacy campaigns and other public policy goals; Assist with tracking, monitoring, and analyzing proposed legislation; Assist with monitoring the legislative calendar for committee meetings and actions involving tracked legislation; Serve as a policy expert and advocate on ACLU-NJ policy priorities; Prepare talking points, legislative testimony, bill summaries, position papers, internal reports and presentations for ACLU-NJ staff and lay leaders; Draft proposed legislation, regulatory comments, legislative amendments and more to preserve and advance civil liberties; Lobby members of legislative bodies, agencies, executive officials and their staff in support of ACLU-NJ positions; Draft and deliver testimony at legislative hearings; Collaborate with staff to implement integrated advocacy initiatives; Register as a lobbyist for the ACLU-NJ; Participate in interviews with the media regarding civil liberties implications of proposed legislation or policy initiatives; Participate in public education efforts, including presentations to members, coalitions, and other organizations; Assist in organizing events, training, or membership activities such as lobby days; Work with state and local lawmakers and staff, administrative agencies, the Governor's office, lobbyists, and other stakeholders by providing thought-partnership, research and analysis, and other resources; Report to the Policy Director

Requirements

J.D. degree required; Demonstrated commitment to and strong understanding of civil rights, civil liberties, social justice, and the ACLU-NJ's mission and goals; Alignment with the values of the ACLU-NJ and professional commitment to advancing them; Ability to work in an environment that respects differences of race, ethnicity, age, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ability, and socioeconomic circumstances; Advanced skills in strategic communications with the public sector, private organizations and policy makers about relevant legislation, policies and procedures relating to ACLU-NJ; Advanced skills providing technical assistance, writing reports, and policy briefs targeted to decision makers; Strong written and oral advocacy skills with advocacy assignments and tasks in the development sector projects; Demonstrated ability to communicate and work effectively and respectfully with staff, board members, lawmakers, volunteers, and the public; Skilled in communicating both orally and in writing; Self-starter with strong follow-through and the ability to meet deadlines; Demonstrated ability to build effective working relationships inside and outside the organization; Ability to think creatively and use non-litigation strategies and integrated advocacy, including building coalitions, utilizing narrative change, and collective advocacy

Nice to have

At least 3 years of legislative and policy experience; Professional experience in public policy development, legal advocacy, political campaigns, organizing, or government affairs work; Experience creating advocacy and membership materials including reports, policy papers, content for newsletters and member/activist emails, blog, and website; Media relations experience; Demonstrated ability to handle and prioritize multiple activities and responsibilities in a fast-paced environment with minimal supervision; Experience with one or more of the ACLU-NJ's strategic priority areas: racial justice, immigrants' rights, criminal law reform, gender equity, reproductive freedom, or LGBTQIA+ equal rights; Available to work extended hours, including occasional nights and weekends, and travel throughout the state

Benefits

30 days paid time off; 12 office holidays; 18 health care leave days; medical, vision, and dental insurance; 100 days paid family leave; life and long-term disability insurance; pre-tax transit benefits; 401(k) plan with employer match; Support for professional growth and skill development through internal and external opportunities