Texas AFT Government Relations Specialist & Policy Analyst

Love the Texas Legislature, especially the House of Representatives? Ready to advocate for public school employees in Texas?

Texas American Federation of Teachers (AFT) seeks a Government Relations Specialist and Policy Analyst (GRSPA) to cultivate positive relationships with elected officials and legislative staff, develop high-level policy analysis, and execute the Union’s governmental relations strategy. The GRSPA position is part of the Texas AFT public affairs department and will be responsible primarily for the Union’s work in the Texas House of Representatives.

A successful GRSPA will be someone who can work independently and handle fast-paced environments, including the demanding schedule of the Texas Legislature. Applicants should have a working knowledge of unions and a commitment to the labor movement. In sum, we are searching for a lobbyist with the heart of a wonk and a strong appreciation for the important work that educators and school support personnel conduct on a daily basis.

Duties:

Specific job duties include:

• Direct lobbying of elected officials.
• Coordinating, editing, and preparing information for elected officials and their staffs.
• Monitoring state legislative and agency meetings and providing written updates as needed.
• Developing policy papers for use by both elected officials and Union members.
• Researching and writing legislative and policy updates for internal and external communications.
• Assisting with the planning and execution of legislative events and activities to publicize and promote the goals and mission of Texas AFT, including meetings, town halls, legislative briefings, trainings, and lobby days.
• Maintaining a cloud-based filing system of relevant legislative information and communications.
• Tracking all lobbying expenses and maintaining appropriate documentation in compliance with Texas Ethics Commission requirements.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required knowledge and skills: 

• Graduation with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university; post-graduate experience or graduate degree preferred.
• At least two (2) sessions experience working in or around the Texas Legislature, preferably for a member of the House, Senate, or a legislative caucus.
• A working knowledge of the Texas Legislature including legislative procedure and rules.
• Exceptional writing skills; Spanish-speakers preferable.

Salary and Benefits: 

This position is part of a collective bargaining agreement with the staff union. In addition to base salary, the position offers a wide range of benefits including:

• Benefits of a union contract
• Fully paid health and dental insurance for the employee and family
• Fully paid disability income insurance for the employee and $50,000 term life insurance
• Paid sick and vacation leave per year
• Retirement contribution