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← ACLU of New Jersey

Associate Director Government Affairs

ACLU of New Jersey
Location
Newark NJ
Posted
2 days ago
Department
Policy Department
What they actually want (must-haves)
  • Demonstrated track record of building and maintaining effective, trust-based relationships with elected officials and government staff.
  • Deep knowledge of the legislative and regulatory process, particularly at the New Jersey state level.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, including the ability to represent the organization credibly and persuasively in high-stakes external settings.
  • Strong judgment and discretion, with the ability to navigate complex political environments with integrity.
  • Ability to manage a broad portfolio of relationships and concurrent advocacy campaigns simultaneously.
  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, and authentic partnership with the communities the ACLU-NJ serves.
Nice to have
  • Experience working in, or directly with, New Jersey state government or the New Jersey legislature.
  • Experience in civil rights, social justice, nonprofit advocacy, or a mission-driven organization.
  • Prior management or supervisory experience.
  • Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish (or another language spoken by New Jersey communities).
  • Existing relationships with members of the New Jersey congressional delegation or their staff.
What the job really is

The Associate Director of Government Affairs at the ACLU of New Jersey will be a key member of the Political Advocacy team, focusing on building and managing strategic relationships with government officials to advance civil liberties priorities. Responsibilities include advocating for ACLU-NJ positions, providing strategic counsel on legislative matters, and collaborating with internal teams to develop messaging and reports. The role also involves supervising junior staff and contributing to organizational planning.

Benefits
  • Salary starting at $110,000, commensurate with experience.
  • 30 days paid time off, 12 office holidays, and 16 health care leave days.
  • Medical, vision, and dental insurance.
  • 20 weeks (100 days) paid family leave.
  • Life and long-term disability insurance.
  • Pre-tax transit benefits.
Things to weigh
  • Position primarily based in Trenton with regular travel around the state.
  • Willingness to occasionally work non-traditional hours to attend meetings and events in the evenings or weekends.
Job score3.6/5
Benefits4/5
Freshness5/5
Career value4/5
Role clarity5/5
Pay transparency0/5

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