This position is responsible for developing, managing and conducting political action and legislative campaigns on behalf of the International Union, working in close coordination with in state affiliates; monitors and makes recommendations for union engagement in electoral and issue campaigns, trains affiliate leaders/staff and members in how to conduct political campaigns; works with allies and other organizations regarding electoral and issue work; and assists with state lobbying efforts. Meets and builds relationships with candidates, party and other officials as well as other organizational and union staff.

Duties:

• Tracks political and legislative developments in state and makes recommendations on the IU’s involvement and resource allocations accordingly.
• Monitors political developments, issues and topics by meeting with officials of political research and policy institutions and attending coalition group briefings.
• Conducts workshops for affiliate leaders and members in how to become politically involved and how to conduct and manage political activities and campaigns, including PEOPLE fundraising.
• Assesses local/state political campaigns, their possible success and potential impact on members' welfare. Recommends extent of political assistance needed, type of campaign to be waged; budget and how to split costs, and the extent of involvement by AFSCME headquarters staff.
• Develops and executes campaign and field plans on behalf of the IU and in conjunction with affiliates.
• Represents AFSCME at political action coalition gatherings participating in the deliberations and preparing reports outlining conclusions reached.
• May conduct training sessions for affiliates or other organizations on topics of mutual interest.
• Assists affiliates with such state lobbying activities as, drafting legislative language, developing strategy, testifying before legislative committees, visiting legislators, developing coalition groups, preparing written material and enunciating AFSCME's views to the media.
• Promotes and implements the PEOPLE program, AFSCME’s political action committee.
• Identifies and builds relationships with progressive partners and allies in an effort to build and broaden AFSCME’s agenda in the state.
• Meets with affiliate leaders, retiree leaders, and members to promote fundraising for the committee.
• Drafts and implements fundraising plans.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Education and Experience

• Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with course work in Labor Relations, Political Science, or Government.
• A minimum of seven (7) years of related work experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience which provides the following knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Skills Requirements:

• Thorough knowledge of federal campaign financial regulations and laws.
• Thorough knowledge of campaign targeting; techniques.
• Knowledge of scientific polling techniques.
• Knowledge of computer software associated with potential campaign data gathering or planning.
• Knowledge of Washington political environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure within tight deadlines.
• Ability to develop training curriculum and conduct workshops.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both orally and writing into large group settings.
• Ability to develop and monitor political campaign budgets.
• Ability to assess political situations and develop appropriate campaign strategies.

Travel and work hours:

• Extensive travel, extended work hours, and a valid driver’s license are required.