The policy and advocacy strategist works with an issue area team within the Policy & Advocacy Department focused on policy issues across the region. The strategist develops advocacy campaign goals, strategies, and plans to address and improve policies that affect civil liberties in border communities. The team works at the local, state, and federal levels, in close collaboration with other departments within the ACLU of Texas and ACLU National. The position reports to the Policy & Advocacy Director.

• Assists in developing strategies and executing plans to achieve departmental objectives in one or more policy areas through a combination of policy knowledge and influencing skills, with guidance and support from the supervisor.
• Maintains knowledge of best practices in policy research and writing, with a focus on policy issues at the local and state level.
• Exerts influence at the local level through relationships with like-minded organizations, grassroots groups, and offices of elected officials at the local/regional level.
• Participates in strategy development for the department, making strategic recommendations for action.
• Produces high-standard written products for internal and external audiences, based on original research and analysis.
• Represents the organization in coalitions, media, and other forums and the local and regional level.
• May manage, evaluate, and develop staff.

• Written and verbal communication: Quickly produces written products that summarize information, meetings, partners positions, etc. and present options for action. Can communicate with internal and external stakeholders clearly and with empathy.
• Analytical skills: Observes, evaluates, and applies quantitative and qualitative data to solving problems. Able to both diagnose problems and offer solutions that are aligned with the organizations position and role.
• Coordination: Brings together multiple components of a project to facilitate its success. Strong ability to communicate with colleagues and other stakeholders to meet deadlines, make efficient use of resources, and handle unexpected problems.
• Ethics: Exhibits a high degree of trustworthiness, character, professionalism, confidentiality, and honesty in dealing with internal and external partners.
• Self Starter: Shows the ability to work independently and in a team environment with minimal supervision, assisting team members as necessary.

• At least three years of experience working in public policy research and advocacy.
• Graduate coursework in a public policy-related field preferred.
• Demonstrated commitment to policy and advocacy, such as through professional or volunteer experiences, or coursework.
• Track record of achieving policy change to improve civil liberties at the local and/or regional level.
• Has existing relationships in the field of public policy broadly that can help inform research methodologies and writing projects.
• Solid computer skills, including proficiency in word processing, spreadsheet, and communications tools.
• Flexible schedule and ability to work non-traditional hours as needed.
• Desire for career growth in civil liberties and at the ACLU.

Starting salary is $70,000 - $76,000. Excellent benefits include a generous Paid Time Off policy, medical, dental and vision insurance; 401(k) plan with an employer match; life and long-term disability insurance, and generous paid holidays.

The ACLU of Texas is an equal opportunity employer. We value a diverse workforce and an inclusive culture. The ACLU of Texas encourages applications from all qualified individuals without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status and record of arrest or conviction.