Advocacy & Industry Relations Associate

Position Title: Advocacy & Industry Relations Associate

Reports To: Director of Advocacy and Industry Relations

Location: Washington, DC Area / hybrid

Salary Range: $65,000 - $75,000, commensurate with experience

Employment Type: Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

The American Association of Political Consultants (AAPC) is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Advocacy & Industry Relations Associate to support its advocacy and industry relations team. This mid-level position plays a critical role in advancing the association’s legislative and advocacy priorities by monitoring policy developments, managing legislative tracking, coordinating advocacy efforts, and providing administrative and research support. The ideal candidate is a team player with a strong interest in public policy, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Policy Monitoring and Analysis:

• Track federal and state legislation relevant to the association’s priorities including data and privacy, artificial intelligence, and political messaging.
• Monitor commercial policies such as compliance and verification requirements that impact the political consulting industry.
• Prepare legislative updates, summaries, and reports for internal and external stakeholders.

Advocacy Support:

• Assist in coordinating advocacy campaigns, including grassroots efforts and coalition building.
• Draft advocacy materials, including fact sheets, position statements, and letters to policymakers.

Research and Writing:

• Conduct policy research to support the association’s legislative initiatives.
• Prepare briefing materials and talking points for meetings with policymakers and stakeholders.
• Manage the association's advocacy newsletter, including drafting content and coordinating with team members for distribution.

Meeting & Event Coordination:

• Assist in planning and executing advocacy events, such as briefings, panels, and webinars.
• Manage logistics for meetings and events, including scheduling, participant communications, and follow-ups.

Administrative Support:

• Maintain and update legislative tracking systems and databases.
• Schedule and prepare materials for internal and external meetings.
• Support the Director of Advocacy and Industry Relations and other team members as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in political science, public policy, communications, or a related field, or equivalent work experience.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in legislative affairs, advocacy, or a related role (experience on Capitol Hill, state legislature, or in a trade association preferred).
• Strong understanding of the legislative and regulatory processes at the state and federal levels.
• Excellent research, writing, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and familiarity with legislative tracking tools (e.g., Plural, Quorum, FiscalNote) preferred.
• Commitment to the mission and values of the association.

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $65,000 - $75,000, based on experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan with employer match.
• Paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Flexible work environment with hybrid work options.

Application Process

• Interested candidates should submit a cover letter detailing their qualifications and interest in the position and a current resume. Contact information for professional references will be requested from finalists.
• Applications should be sent to jobs@theaapc.org. Review of applications will begin immediately and continue until the position is filled.

About the Organization

The American Association of Political Consultants (AAPC) is the premier trade association for political professionals, dedicated to advancing democracy through ethical practices and advocacy. We set the standard for American political campaigns because we are driven to be the best and make a difference for our clients and America. Our members craft effective strategies and employ best practices so our clients win at the ballot box and in the halls of government. We fight to defend political free speech as an essential foundation of democracy, while promoting excellence by recruiting and recognizing the best in our profession. We share the skills, resources and networks our members need to thrive and win.