Legislative Associate. Washington, DC. Full-time.
Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA) is the nation’s first and largest group for veterans of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Founded in 2004 by Iraq veterans, IAVA is a young, dynamic nonprofit with over 180,000 veteran members and grassroots supporters in 50 states. We’re winning major battles in Congress (like the GI Bill), helping thousands of veterans nationwide, and making national headlines daily. If you care about how America treats its returning troops, and want to play a powerful role in national politics, IAVA may be the right fit for you.
Do you have what it takes? IAVA is looking for a motivated OEF/OIF veteran to be the face, voice, (and sometimes boot) of veterans on Capitol Hill. Our elite legislative team has been instrumental in the most significant veterans advocacy victories coming out of Congress. If you think you can hang, you could become a major part of IAVA’s presence in Washington DC.
As a Legislative Associate, you will be on the front lines of veterans’ advocacy. You will be expected to build relationships with Congressional offices, coordinate with allied advocacy organizations and interface with multiple agencies with in the Executive Branch to include the White House, Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs. You will be primarily responsible for becoming an expert in your assigned fields by researching and tracking new legislation relating to IAVA’s legislative goals. You will be expected to frequently communicate with Congress via events and Congressional Hearings. As a force in the media you will help IAVA bring our issues out of the beltway and into the consciousness of the American public. All candidates must have a commitment to the goals of IAVA. IAVA is an equal opportunity employer and highly encourages applications from candidates of color, women, LGBT and the disabled.
Experience (at least one of the following):
- Two years of experience in advocacy, on Capitol Hill, or with/within the federal government, or in a related field.
- Two years of experience in State or Municipal government dealing with veterans’ affairs or related issues.
- Two years of experience working within the Federal Government working on veteran related programs or agencies.
- Extensive experience working on National or State campaigns.
- Experience writing memorandum and briefing materials for principles.
Skills (all of the following):
- Working knowledge of the legislative process to include legislative analysis, political acumen, and the procedures of Congress.
- Clear, thoughtful, precise, and quick writing skills.
- A strong facility with public speaking and media.
Traits (all of the following):
- Excellent organization and leadership skills.
- Comfort working on multiple tasks under pressure and tight deadlines.
- Flexibility, dedication to mission, and a robust sense of humor.
Start Date: Immediate
Application deadline: Rolling Salary Range: $45k-$55k, depending on experience.
Benefits: IAVA provides a range of benefit packages and three weeks paid vacation per year.
To Apply: Please send a resume and writing sample to hiring@iava.org, with “Legislative Associate” in the subject line. Include a cover letter that concisely explains how your experience could be applied to IAVA. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered. No phone calls, please.
