Public Policy Associate

Work for a first-class institution that is innovative, multi-dimensional, and dynamic by joining AIR as a Public Policy Associate.

We hire talented and forward-thinking professionals to build our cross-functional teams and support our clients in solving complex problems. Our people—problem-solvers, changemakers, and creative thinkers—are experts in their craft who rise to meet today’s challenges.

The Public Policy Associate will play an integral role in delivering on some of the most meaningful projects in communities across the United States and the world. You’ll collaborate with our teams of motivated and passionate visionaries, where your input will be valued and your contributions vital to our success.

AIR is currently seeking a Public Policy Associate to join our Public Affairs team. The Policy Associate will support the public affairs team in developing and managing AIR’s relationships with strategic partners on Capitol Hill, and with Federal and state agencies, as AIR seeks to solidify its reputation as a trusted and reliable source of non-partisan, equity-focused research in the areas of education, health, international development, justice, and workforce development. This position reports to the Senior Manager, Public Affairs.

We value the experiences of every member of our institution, from entry level to executive. As part of our collaborative, learning-oriented team, you’ll be encouraged to grow in your career, develop additional skills, and progress professionally.

Candidates hired for the position can work at any AIR DC, MD, VA office location and have the flexibility to telework.   

About AIR:

Established in 1946, with headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, AIR is a nonpartisan, not-for-profit institution that conducts behavioral and social science research and delivers technical assistance to solve some of the most urgent challenges in the U.S. and around the world. We advance evidence in the areas of education, health, the workforce, human services, and international development to create a better, more equitable world.

AIR’s commitment to diversity goes beyond legal compliance to its full integration in our strategy, operations, and work environment. At AIR, we define diversity broadly, considering everyone’s unique life and community experiences. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives, abilities/disabilities, racial/ethnic and cultural backgrounds, styles, ages, genders, gender identities and expressions, education backgrounds, and life stories drives innovation and employee engagement. Learn more about AIR's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Strategy and hear from our staff by clicking here .

The responsibilities for the position include:

Essential job functions include but are not limited to-

• Perform policy research, analysis, and dissemination.
• Track federal and state legislation and policies of interest to the institution.
• Develop memos and other resources on federal and state policy trends, budget and appropriations, and topics of interest.
• Represent AIR at national and DC-based events such as forums, congressional hearings, and coalition meetings.
• Create content for external and internal communication vehicles (e.g., web, social media, policy briefs, flyers, newsletters, one pagers, background documents, briefing materials, handouts)
• Support projects including events, webinars, and other work as assigned.
• Participate in team meetings and collaborate on team projects.
• Work to position AIR in specified areas of interest and expand brand understanding with key external groups, including policymakers and influencers.
• With assistance from senior staff, provide support for government relations and public affairs activities and strategy to fulfill AIR’s vision to inform evidence-based decision-making.
• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time based on institutional needs.

Education, Knowledge, and Experience: 

• Bachelor’s degree required plus two years relevant experience or Masters.
• Ability to travel for work occasionally.
• Travel Required: Local to Capitol Hill and travel to related events

 Skills:

• Effective communicator with the ability to work with individuals at all levels and from diverse backgrounds in a virtual work environment.
• Strong written communication skills.
• Experience with and / or knowledge of Capitol Hill and legislative and regulatory policy making.
• Demonstrated ability to work well independently, and collaborate as a member of team, while prioritizing multiple objectives to consistently meet established timelines.
• Demonstrated organizational, analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• A quick learner able to effectively work in a fast-paced environment, follow instructions, and work with tight deadlines.
• Self-starter, willing to ask questions and request assistance when needed while open to constructive feedback.
• Proficiency in Microsoft 365, including OneDrive, SharePoint, Excel, Word, and Adobe Acrobat Pro

Disclosures:

Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. Employment-based visa sponsorship (including H-1B sponsorship) is not available for this position. Depending on project work, qualified candidates may need to meet certain residency requirements.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination on the basis of age, race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity/expression, sexual orientation, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability.

AIR adheres to strict child safeguarding principles. All selected candidates will be expected to adhere to these standards and principles and will therefore undergo reference and background checks.

AIR’s Total Rewards Program , is designed to reward our staff competitively and motivate them to achieve our critical mission. This position offers an anticipated annual salary of $81,000 to $86,000. Salary offers are made based on internal equity within the institution and external equity with competitive markets. Please note this is the annual salary range for candidates that are based in the United States.

AIR maintains a drug-free work environment .

Fraudulent Job Scams Warning & Disclaimer:

AIR is aware of individuals falsely presenting themselves as AIR representatives. Fraudulent job scams seek to extract sensitive information or money from victims. To protect yourself, please be aware that AIR recruitment will only email you from an “@air.org” domain. Please take extra caution while examining the email address, for example jdoe@air.org is correct and jdoe@aircareers.org is not a legitimate AIR email address. If you are unsure of the legitimacy of a communication you have received, please reach out to [email protected] .

If you see a job scam, or lose money to one, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov . You can also report it to your state attorney general . Find out more about how to avoid scams at ftc.gov/scams .