Director, Federal Government Affairs (Washington, DC)

Director, Federal Government Affairs (Washington, DC)

Washington, DC

What Is The Role

The Director of Federal Government Affairs will serve as a key member of the Federal Advocacy team, helping to shape and advance the National Alliance's federal policy agenda. This role is responsible for representing the charter school movement before Congress, federal agencies, and the executive branch, while supporting strategic political engagement. The position reports to the Senior Director of Federal Government Affairs and works closely with internal teams and external partners to build bipartisan support for charter schools.

What You'll Do

You will:

• Represent the National Alliance and promote its priorities before Capitol Hill, federal agencies, and the executive branch
• Analyze and shape federal policy proposals that reflect political dynamics and advance the charter school community's goals
• Monitor congressional activity—including hearings, markups, and legislation—and assess its relevance to charter schools
• Support advocacy efforts to advance pro-charter legislation and appropriations
• Coordinate with national policy partners and state/local advocacy groups to amplify our voice in Washington
• Represent the National Alliance in coalition meetings, congressional briefings, and other key forums
• Respond to requests for information and technical assistance from congressional offices and state charter organizations
• Collaborate with colleagues to execute a strategic political plan using the Charter School Action Fund (501(c)(4)) and partner organizations to grow congressional support

Who You Are

You are a government affairs leader with knowledge of federal policy and a commitment to expanding access to high-quality public education. You thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and bring insight, political acumen, and collaborative energy to your work.

• You have 7+ years of experience in federal government, legislative affairs, or public policy
• You have meaningful experience working on Capitol Hill or closely with congressional offices
• You understand the federal legislative and appropriations processes and can navigate them effectively in a bipartisan context
• You have a track record of meeting ambitious goals and driving policy outcomes
• You're a communicator and relationship-builder, able to engage stakeholders across the political spectrum
• You're comfortable working cross-functionally to achieve shared objectives
• You're proactive, organized, and committed to expanding educational opportunity for all students
• You reside within an hour commute of Washington, DC -- while the National Alliance is a remote organization, this role will require frequent visits and meetings on or near Capitol Hill.

What We Offer

The National Alliance provides a sector-leading compensation and benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and work-life balance.

We cover 100% of employee medical, dental, and vision premiums, and 50% for spouses and dependents. Our Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) covers 100% of in-network medical deductibles , ensuring minimal out-of-pocket costs.

You'll have access to:

• A 403(b) retirement plan with up to a 6% employer match after 90 days
• Automatic life insurance, short- and long-term disability coverage, and Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA and DC-FSA)
• 12 weeks of fully paid parental leave
• 25 PTO days annually, plus all federal holidays and a week off at year-end
• 4-week paid sabbatical after 4 years of service

As a virtual-first organization, we offer:

• A monthly reimbursement for internet and cellular service
• A $500 home office setup stipend during your first 90 days

We are committed to offering a competitive and inclusive compensation structure. The anticipated starting salary for this role is $85,000–$110,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Who We Are

The National Alliance for Public Charter Schools believes that all families deserve high-quality public school options. Charter schools are independent public schools providing families with a new set of public school options. Each of these schools is developed to be a partnership between parents, teachers, and students.

When given the option, parents are choosing to enroll their children in charter schools. In fact, the demand for charter schools is far outpacing the supply in most communities. What began as a small movement in a few states has grown to become a major force in education reform across the country. Through advocacy, research, and strategic communications, the National Alliance works to grow the number of high-quality charter schools available to all families, especially those who do not have access to high-quality public schools.