The Center for Rural Affairs is a nonprofit organization working from rural places to build a better rural future. For more than 50 years, the Center has supported beginning farmers, rural entrepreneurs, and first time advocates through research, policy, and community engagement. The organization values equity, inclusion, and practical solutions rooted in rural experience.
The Center seeks two Policy Associates to support research, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. These roles focus on turning policy research into action by working with rural residents, partners, and policymakers. You will help identify policy gaps, analyze solutions, and advance priorities that strengthen rural communities. Regional travel is required.
There are two tracks for this role. The Policy Associate, Clean Energy role is based in northeast Nebraska, northwest Iowa, southwest Minnesota, or southeast South Dakota. The Policy Associate, Agriculture and Conservation role is based in central or eastern Nebraska.
You will conduct policy research, monitor legislation and media developments, and develop written materials such as reports, white papers, blogs, and action alerts. You will engage with constituents and partners to gather input, support advocacy with legislators and local officials, and help build coalitions that advance policy campaigns. You will integrate the Center’s values into all aspects of your work.
You should bring strong communication skills and the ability to translate complex information into clear messages. You need experience managing multiple projects, engaging stakeholders, and working collaboratively across teams. The role values relationship building, inclusive leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to social justice and rural equity.
This is a full time, non exempt position with occasional overnight and out of state travel.
Salary range is $50,000 to $64,000 per year. Benefits have a cash value of $10,000 to $29,500 depending on family status and tenure and include 97 percent employer paid family health insurance with an HSA contribution, retirement options, employee assistance program, 12 paid holidays, paid time off between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, Friday summer hours, and vacation and sick leave.
Location: In your cover letter, please clearly indicate the position of interest.
- Policy Associate - Clean Energy: Location is flexible to the regions of northeast Nebraska, northwest Iowa, southwest Minnesota, or southeast South Dakota.
- Policy Associate –Agriculture & Conservation: Location is flexible to the regions of central and eastern Nebraska.
Click here to access the application.