National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition: Policy Associate (Conservation and Farm Programs)

The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC) is an alliance of grassroots organizations that advocates for federal policy reform to advance the sustainability of agriculture, food systems, natural resources, and rural communities. NSAC is currently seeking a Policy Associate for conservation and farm program issues. This position is located at NSAC’s DC office on Capitol Hill.

NSAC’s Policy Associate will help to develop and implement policy and strategy focused on agricultural conservation, especially working lands programs, and on farm program reform, especially crop insurance programs. The Policy Associate will advocate before the US Congress and executive branch agencies, particularly the US Department of Agriculture. The Policy Associate will staff and help lead NSAC’s Conservation, Energy & Environment Issue Committee, and will also have assignments within NSAC’s Farming Opportunities and Fair Competition Committee. The associate will draft documents, including legislative language, policy papers, testimony, advocacy materials, and comments relating to USDA working lands conservation programs, climate change, crop insurance, and other issues. She or he will contribute to the organization’s annual planning and priority setting, budgeting, and fundraising; participate in the planning and execution of coalition-wide meetings; assist with grassroots and grasstops outreach; write policy blogs; represent NSAC at Conservation Coalition and other similar DC partner meetings; and represent NSAC at events and to the media. The Policy Associate, one of four Policy Associates at NSAC, reports directly to NSAC’s Policy Director.


Qualifications

- An understanding and passion for sustainable agriculture, including farm conservation and environmental protection and family farm livelihood and opportunity
- Knowledge of the federal policy-making process
- A minimum of three years Hill/lobbying experience or other agricultural policy experience
- Experience advocating in support of conservation programs or farm program reform is preferred
- Background with grassroots advocacy campaigns
- Excellent written and verbal communications and public speaking skills
- Experience with print, radio, and online media
- Experience with large, multi-organization grassroots coalitions
- Ability to both work independently and be a good team player
- Willingness to work around a demanding congressional schedule and administrative deadlines
- Willingness to travel domestically several times a year


Compensation and Benefits

Salary is on a non-profit scale and will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. NSAC offers an excellent employer paid benefits package and a lively and collaborative work environment.


Application

Please send resume, cover letter including an explanation of your interests in sustainable agriculture, salary history, and the names of three references to Emily Gilbert at egilbert@sustainableagriculture.net.