Deputy Political & Legislative Director

The Oregon AFL-CIO is the statewide federation of labor unions representing over 300,000 working Oregonians and acts as a voice for the members of over 400 local unions as well as all workers. The team at the State Federation is a progressive, talented, and hard-working group of social justice advocates poised to continue the fight for a fair and more just economy.

Are you passionate about economic fairness and social justice? Do you want to improve the lives of working people and strengthen the labor movement? If you answered, “YES!” then the Oregon AFL-CIO may be the right place for you. We are part of the largest federation of labor unions in the United States and the Oregon AFL-CIO team of dynamic professionals is dedicated to growing worker power and ensuring every working person has a voice on the job. When you work at the Oregon AFL-CIO, you’re more than just an individual employee - you’re helping to lead a movement with a proud history and a bright future ahead.

Who We’re Looking For:

We’re looking for a policy professional with significant, demonstrated experience in the Oregon legislature and policy arena, experience leading political and legislative campaigns, and with strong relationships within the Oregon Labor, progressive, political, and legislative communities. We are especially looking for a person with a passion for social and economic justice.

Essential Qualifications and Experience

• Share vision of building a bigger, broader, bolder, and more inclusive labor movement
• Extensive experience in developing and moving legislation, lobbying, and policy advocacy in Oregon
• Knowledgeable about historical, current, and evolving public policy impacting working families
• Experience in building coalitions/consensus among diverse stakeholders in the political and policy arenas
• Proven experience in building relationships with labor leaders, lawmakers, community leaders, and worker advocacy stakeholders
• Ability to manage multiple projects while simultaneously prioritizing organizational projects and mission
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and with effective writing skills
• Strategic thinking in terms of developing multi-year plans to grow program and capacity
• Experience leading and/or overseeing political and electoral operations in a labor movement context
• Experience in maintaining year-round field infrastructure by engaging members and stakeholders around progressive causes and issues
• Ability to plan effectively and develop a variety of strategies to achieve organizational goals
• Ability to use data, research, and the integration of current technologies, including digital engagement, to inform and develop political and policy strategies
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Ability to work collaboratively and foster a positive work environment and culture
• Bilingual (English/Spanish) or multilingual aptitude preferable but not required

Key Role Responsibilities

• Work with our Political and Legislative Director and other staff to develop and implement strategic political and legislative plans, and to organize affiliate unions and partners around coordinated programs
• Play an integral role in the coordination of staff to achieve programmatic objectives
• Engage with Oregon AFL-CIO and affiliate leadership and key staff to develop and maintain strong relationships and programmatic buy-in
• Effectively represent the Oregon AFL-CIO and broader labor movement with key allies and partners at various tables and in coalition spaces
• Lobby the Oregon Legislature to advance Oregon Labor’s policy agenda
• Work with Oregon AFL-CIO team and affiliates to accomplish organizational priorities beyond political and policy program areas
• Supervise both temporary and permanent members of the Oregon AFL-CIO team, aid with workflow, and ensure that team members understand their duties and complete tasks
• Other duties as assigned

Pay and Benefits:

Comprehensive fully paid family healthcare, generous holiday and vacation policies, and a 15% employer-paid defined contribution 401K retirement benefit. Compensation is based on experience (range of $98,000-$110,000).

This position is full-time, salaried, and is subject to irregular work hours - including late nights, weekends, and holidays - based on organizational needs.

The Oregon AFL-CIO is an equal-opportunity employer. Black, indigenous, people of color, immigrants, women, LGBTQ+ folks, people with multilingual skills, disabled folks, and veterans are strongly encouraged to apply. Even if you think you do not meet all of the qualifications listed above, you are still strongly encouraged to apply.

To apply, please submit a resume, cover letter, three different applicable writing samples, and three professional references.

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis, but the intent is to move as quickly as is practicable to fill the position