Policy Associate- California

Drug Policy Alliance • Sacramento, CA

394d • $61,000 - $67,000

About The Position

The California Policy Associate will work within the Drug Policy Alliance's Organizing and Campaigns Department to advocate for drug policy reforms in California. This role involves engaging with the California State Legislature on various drug policy issues, including criminal-legal system reform, overdose prevention, and marijuana legalization. The associate will support advocacy efforts, develop materials, and build relationships with diverse partners to promote DPA's mission.

Requirements

• Strong commitment to DPA's mission to end the war on drugs.
• Demonstrated commitment to social and racial justice.
• Experience in public policy advocacy, legislative affairs, or organizing campaigns.
• Experience building and leading coalitions with measurable results.
• Familiarity with drug policy is highly preferred.
• Understanding of the California political and legislative process is preferred.
• Excellent writing and oral advocacy skills.
• Community organizing experience is strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in criminal justice and/or public health.
• Versatility working with diverse partners, including community members directly impacted by the war on drugs.
• Strong interpersonal skills, flexibility, creativity, curiosity, and a good sense of humor.

Responsibilities

• Support advocacy efforts in the state legislature in coordination with California team and consultant(s).
• Develop advocacy materials, including reports, policy briefs, blog posts, opinion pieces, and social media content.
• Implement strategies to achieve DPA's core priorities at the state level in California.
• Monitor emerging issues that impact DPA's state policy agenda.
• Assist in building a statewide campaign to promote drug policies consistent with DPA's mission.
• Create and maintain relationships with community-based organizations, elected officials, and coalition allies.
• Represent DPA in community events, conferences, and other forums.
• Collaborate with other DPA departments to further organizational goals.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance (including dental and vision).
• 403b retirement plan with 10% employer matching after one year.
• 20 days of vacation plus national holidays and sick days.
• Organizational closure at the end of December.
• Year-round early dismissal on Fridays.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Industry: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees