New York City 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.

About the Role

Open New York is looking to bring on a New York City Legislative Manager to advocate for pro-housing legislation in New York City. This position requires strong interpersonal skills, a deep understanding of the New York City land use and legislative 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. This role will report directly to the Political Director, and require frequent collaboration with ONY’s staff.

Responsibilities

• Meet with New York City elected officials to advocate for Open New York’s legislative and zoning priorities
• Assist in the development of Open New York’s NYC political strategy
• Handle the day-to-day management of consultants or lobbyists hired by Open New York to assist with City legislative work
• In collaboration with Open New York’s communications and policy staff, create educational materials for elected officials
• Track priority bills and land use actions 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 City legislators
• Does not and will not have a restriction to lobby legislators in New York City in 2026 by taking this role
• 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.

Additional Information

This a full time, exempt position, with a salary range of $80,000 - $110,000, depending on the successful candidate’s location and experience. The deadline for submitting applications to the New York City Legislative Manager position is October 31, 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.

Employee Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision coverage
• 13 paid holidays
• 20 paid vacation days
• 20 paid sick days
• 16 weeks paid parental leave