Senior Legislative Specialist, Federal Affairs

$85,000 - $100,000/Yr

The Humane Society Of The United States

Full-time - Mid Level

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations

About the position

The Senior Legislative Specialist, Federal Affairs at the Humane Society Legislative Fund (HSLF) is responsible for developing and promoting legislative strategies to advance animal welfare legislation. This role involves collaboration with Congressional offices, guiding junior legislative staff, and leading on appropriations issues. The position requires strong advocacy skills and a commitment to animal protection.

Responsibilities

• Develop strategic priorities with the President, Vice President, and Director of Legislative Affairs to pass animal welfare legislation and defend against attacks on animal protection laws.
• Implement legislative priorities and assist junior legislative staff in navigating the legislative process.
• Promote HSLF's legislative goals to Congressional offices and committees, focusing on authorizing and appropriating language.
• Provide regulatory lobbying support and monitor relevant legislative proposals, Congressional briefings, and hearings.
• Alert appropriate staff of opportunities to advance or defeat legislative measures and draft alerts for grassroots actions.
• Coordinate with the public relations department to review press releases, op-eds, and other media materials related to federal legislation.
• Conduct media interviews as needed and develop coalitions with political organizations and associations.
• Represent HSLF's legislative agenda within coalitions and draft action alerts, fact sheets, blogs, and outreach materials for the activist network.
• Draft materials for outreach to Congressional offices and contribute to testimony for Congressional hearings.
• Assist in planning Hill events, including Legislator Awards, Briefings, and TAFA Lobby Day.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a related field or equivalent work experience required.
• A minimum of four (4) years of federal government relations or lobbying experience required; experience in the legislative branch preferred.
• Strong knowledge of the federal legislative process, appropriations process, committee work, and floor procedures.
• Proficient in Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook) including Share Point.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines; high energy, self-motivated, and proactive.
• Strong multitasking abilities and flexibility regarding workload and assignments.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and possess strong written and verbal communication skills, including public speaking and presentations.
• Attention to detail and commitment to excellence in delivering quality and timely outcomes.
• Ability to work independently and as an effective team member; strong interest in animal protection issues preferred.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience working in the legislative branch preferred.
• Strong interest in animal protection issues preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $85,000 - $100,000 based on experience and qualifications.
• Hybrid work environment based in Washington, DC.