New Jersey Associate

Overview

Regional Plan Association is seeking a self-motivated, dynamic individual with excellent organizing, analysis, and relationship building skills for the position of New Jersey Associate.

Candidates should share our passion for fostering equitable, healthy, sustainable cities and communities. The New Jersey Associate will build support for RPA’s policy proposals in New Jersey and form alliances with elected officials and external stakeholders on a range of planning and public policy issues including transportation, housing, economic development, sustainability, resiliency, and clean energy. They will report to the NJ Director and assist them on activities in the state including state committee support, grant applications and reporting, and the annual New Jersey reception.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead day-to-day legislative work in NJ and maintain a consistent presence on RPA issues

  • Monitor state house activity; track relevant legislation and regulations, provide recommendations for action

  • Develop and maintain relationships with state legislators and legislative staff, as well as local elected officials where relevant

  • Prepare and deliver public testimony and presentations

  • Meet with external stakeholders, business groups, and community organizations

• Build support for RPA proposals
• Coalition management and development
• Organize meetings, forums, and events
• Assist with fundraising and grant administration
• Provide administrative assistance to the NJ Director and NJ Committee

QUALIFICATIONS

• Two or more years of work experience in an advocacy, communications, or legislation

• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders; experience working in teams

• Excellent execution skills and self accountability

• Results-oriented with the ability to effectively manage competing priorities

• Strong writing, analytical, and public speaking skills

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment in support of a broad mission

• NJ residency strongly preferred

EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• An undergraduate degree and/or graduate degree

• Concentration in planning, public policy, economics, political science or other relevant field strongly preferred

COMPENSATION

This is a full-time position with retirement, health, vision, and dental benefits. Salary and title are commensurate with skills and experience in a range from $55,000 to $70,000.

This position is hybrid, consisting of a combination of remote work, in-person meetings and events often in the Trenton area, and 1-2 days per week in RPA’s NYC office in Lower Manhattan. Work may occasionally include evening or weekend meetings.

HOW TO APPLY

To apply, please submit a resume, a brief (one page maximum) cover letter, three references and a writing sample. Because of the high volume of applications we receive, we regret that we are unable to reply to every applicant. We kindly request no phone calls or emails.