State Legislative Manager

About Open New York

Open New York (ONY) is a grassroots, non-profit organization advocating for abundant homes and lower rent. With a rapidly growing staff and hundreds of active volunteer members across the State of New York, ONY seeks to implement local and statewide policy changes that expand housing options for all New Yorkers. From Rochester to the Rockaways, ONY is organizing to pass innovative and necessary legislation to finally dig New York out of its decades-long housing shortage.

Job Summary

Open New York is looking to bring on a State Legislative Manager to advocate for pro-housing legislation in Albany. This position requires strong interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of the New York State legislative and budget processes, and a desire to work closely with a diverse group of stakeholders, from elected officials and their staffs to ONY’s dedicated volunteer members. Outside of the legislative session, the State Legislative Manager will continue to meet with State elected officials and advocate for State legislative priorities, but may also be asked to hold meetings with local officials in various parts of the state. This role will report directly to the Political Director, and require frequent collaboration with ONY’s staff.

Responsibilities:

• Meet with State elected officials to advocate for Open New York’s priority legislation
• Assist in the development of Open New York’s State political strategy
• Handle the day-to-day management of consultants or lobbyists hired by Open New York to assist with State legislative work
• In collaboration with Open New York’s communications and policy staff, create educational materials for elected officials
• Track priority bills as they move through the legislative process
• In collaboration with Open New York’s organizing team, plan public events and send invitations to elected officials
• In collaboration with Open New York’s communications team, identify opportunities for earned media coverage and elected official engagement
• Assist Open New York’s organizing team to provide relevant updates to members
• Draft organization testimony for legislative, budget, and zoning hearings
• Build relationships and coordinate meetings with existing and new coalition partners

The ideal candidate will have:

• 5+ years of experience working in legislative and/or advocacy roles in New York
• Existing relationships with New York State legislators
• Experience navigating the New York State legislative and budget process
• Ability to work independently and within a fast-paced environment, as well as thrive in a collaborative and supportive team environment
• Excellent communication skills and emotional fluency
• Understanding of and commitment to Open New York’s mission

Location:

• Most of the Open New York staff lives in New York City and operates as a hybrid team, with three days per week in our office in Lower Manhattan.
• This position is open to anyone who lives in New York State.
• This position will be expected to be in-person in Albany for all State legislative session days (January-June), unless otherwise directed by the Political Director. Travel expenses will be covered by Open New York unless the candidate resides within commuting distance of Albany.
• From June-December, if the employee does not live within commuting distance to Lower Manhattan, monthly travel to New York City will be required.

Salary: $80,000 - $110,000, depending on the successful candidate’s location and experience. This is a full-time, exempt position.

Application deadline: August 15, 2025

Equal Employment Opportunity

Open New York is committed to a diverse workforce, and we seek diversity among applicants for this position. People of color, women, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. Open New York is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.