Policy Fellow

Are you interested in gaining significant experiences in national level activities related to policy development and implementation, advocacy, training, and technical assistance? Do you want to advocate on behalf of people with disabilities to make change at a national level?

The Policy Fellowship will aim to (1) provide experience in the development of and implementation of national policy related to individuals with disabilities, their families and the professionals who work with them, (2) broaden the Fellow's knowledge of AUCD's programs, priorities and membership and (3) develop important relationships with other federal level government and advocacy organizations including Congress, federal agencies, national organizations, and other public and private entities that are working to improve the lives of people with disabilities.

The Fellowship position is a one-year position with possibility of renewal for a second year, starting around July 1, 2024.

About AUCD

The Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), a leading national disability organization, promotes and supports a national network of interdisciplinary centers on disabilities. Its member centers represent every US state and territory, including: 68 University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD), 60 Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities (LEND) Programs, and 14 Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Centers (IDDRC). Together, these organizations advance policy and practice through research, education, leadership, and services for and with individuals with developmental and other disabilities, their families and communities.

We are pleased to provide a family-friendly work environment; a competitive salary based on education and experience; generous health, dental, disability, life insurance and retirement benefits; and three weeks' vacation, sick and personal days, and paid holidays.

AUCD is an equal opportunity employer and committed to fostering an inclusive culture that values all types of diversity, and as such has experience accommodating a wide range of disability and related workplace needs. Candidates from traditionally underrepresented or unrepresented communities and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Overview of Responsibilities

The Policy Fellow will work with AUCD's Policy Team to formulate and implement the policy goals of AUCD. The Policy Fellow will be responsible for attending meetings, hearings, and briefings and sharing notes. The Fellow will assist with preparing for and/or participating in meetings with Congressional offices and federal agencies.

The Fellow will be responsible for writing, editing and disseminating AUCD policy materials including action alerts, letters, comments, statements, position papers. "How To" materials, etc., and writing and disseminating Disability Policy News (AUCD's bi-monthly legislative update). The Fellow will track AUCD sign-on letters and amicus brief participation.

The Fellow will also provide training and technical assistance to AUCD's members and assist with planning of the Disability Policy Seminar and AUCD's Annual Meeting and Hill Day.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree and/or experience equivalent to a four-year college degree in public policy or a disability-related field.
• 2 - 5 years of experience working at the local, state or federal level in research, clinical, training, advocacy or other related position with persons with disabilities or be a graduate trainee who is completing their training program.
• Effective oral and written communication skills, including drafting materials and providing presentations to various types of audiences.
• Strong research and policy analysis experience.
• Strong interpersonal skills including the ability to work effectively in coalitions and with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work well in a team environment.
• Computer/System Skills: Microsoft Office Programs, Web conferencing software, survey and data management programs,

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with the national network of University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs); Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities (LEND); and Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Centers (IDDRC).
• Knowledge of key federal agencies, especially the following in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services including the Administration for Community Living, Health Resources Services Administration, National Institutes for Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Familiarity with national organizations representing people with disabilities, and organizations focused on health, employment and/or education.
• Experience working with the federal government, including Hill experience.
• Knowledge of the federal legislative and regulatory processes, especially the federal budget and appropriations process.

Salary Range

The salary range for this position is $54,000 - $62,000.

Location

This is a hybrid position with the Fellow expected to work from AUCD's office at least twice a month and attend meetings and other events around greater Washington, DC as needed. The remainder of the time, the Fellow is able to telecommute. Other work arrangements will be considered for the right candidate. The AUCD office is located in downtown Silver Spring, MD, one block from the red line Silver Spring Metro station and next to a county-maintained parking garage.

To Apply

Please submit: (1) a letter of interest, (2) a resume of relevant experience, (3) names and contact information of at least three professional references, (4) a writing sample no more than two pages solely authored by you; and (5) any accommodations needed for the application and interview.

Applications will be accepted and reviewed immediately. Applicants will be given priority if they apply by May 6th, but the position will remain open until filled.

AUCD is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to hairstyle, race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

For more information about AUCD, visit: www.aucd.org.