Policy & Public Affairs Associate

Role Description

The Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA (PCAC) is hiring a Policy & Public Affairs Associate to support its mission representing the needs of riders on the MTA system.

This position will primarily be responsible for working with PCAC leadership and members to conduct research on issues impacting MTA riders, identifying and drafting legislation that advances rider Councils’ goals, and advocating for legislation’s passage. The person in this role will develop and maintain PCAC’s contacts and relationships within the New York State Legislature, New York City Council and other governmental entities, and work independently to pursue efforts identified within and by PCAC.

Other responsibilities include original research and public-facing material development; written and oral testimony; development of op-eds, press releases and social media posts; and partnerships with other advocacy and good government organizations. The position requires independent and external work, combined with close internal teamwork and cooperation.

A cover letter is required for consideration. For more information and to apply click here.

Required Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Ability to synthesize ideas clearly and concisely.
• Excellent critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to draft New York State and City legislation in tandem with the bill sponsor's staff.
• High level of competency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, as well as Mailchimp and WordPress and/or similar.
• Demonstrated ability to work with all internal levels within a given organization.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate and interact well with external agencies.
• Demonstrated ability to work in a high-profile, high-pressure environment effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with key internal and/or external stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to complete short- and long-term projects effectively and as efficiently as possible.

Required Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Transportation, Journalism, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years related experience, including legislative, government affairs, public policy, communications, or related experience; writing public-facing content and materials, writing and updating website content, and creating reports and presentations, including visualization techniques.
• Experience in public transportation issues and public outreach.
• Experience working with Advocacy communities.
• Experience with mass transit travel.

The Following is/are preferred:

• A master’s or advanced degree.
• Familiarity with the MTA’s policies and procedures.
• Familiarity with New York State and City government, as well as knowledge of transit systems, their operations, and capital improvement processes.
• Experience managing social media campaigns
• Experience working with public and civic organizations and/or interactions with local governments and officials.
• Experience facilitating meetings with diverse participants.
• Involvement in community organizing efforts.