The Constitution Project (TCP) at POGO works to combat the increasing partisan divide regarding our constitutional rights and liberties and is looking for an External Affairs Associate.  For over 20 years, TCP has brought together people of diverse experiences and political philosophies to forge consensus-based solutions to some of the most difficult constitutional questions of the day. The External Affairs Associatewill take the lead in building and managing a diverse coalition to: defend the courts, provide better access to justice, check overbroad government surveillance, and support secure elections.

The External Affairs Associate reports to the TCP Director.

Responsibilities include:

• Recruit and nurture a diverse and bipartisan coalition of outside groups (think tanks, businesses, non-profits, religious organizations, interest groups, et al) to support a campaign to defend the courts.
• Provide day-to-day management of the courts coalition. This includes recruitment of new members via meetings, phone calls and electronic communication.
• Identify and respond to threats and opportunities on behalf of the coalition.
• Write advocacy materials with staff counsel on many TCP related issues, including: op-eds, letters to the editor, other letters of support, and talking points for TCP leaders.
• Follow developments in the federal legislative, executive, and judicial branches that affect TCP’s agenda and advocacy efforts.  This includes related Congressional legislation, federal court decisions, and news events implicating the constitutional separation of powers.
• Assist staff counsel with legislative advocacy, including outreach to Members of Congress and their staffs, coordination of Hill visits and staff briefings, and keeping track all TCP’s discussions with federal officials.
• Collaborate with POGO staff to advance our goals and to ensure coordination between the communication, investigation, and development teams.
• Speak on behalf of TCP in coalition meetings and other group settings.
• Exercise good judgment and diplomacy in all interactions with external groups and individuals.
• Respond to requests from colleagues and other organizations.
• Initiate projects while collaboratively working with other POGO staff and other organizations.
• Respond to coalition members’ inquiries.

Qualifications include:

• Bachelor degree; relevant graduate level education is a plus.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working in a policy-related position.
• Excellent communications skills.
• Experience building coalitions.
• Strong research skills.
• Experience and ability to work on multiple projects at once.
• Familiarity with TCP’s issues is highly desired.
• Share our passion for liberty, justice, and the rule of law.

Compensation and benefits:

• Competitive nonprofit salary in the range of $50K-58K.
• Health insurance and dental plan.
• Retirement contribution once eligible.
• Life insurance and short-term disability coverage, subject to the terms established by the insurance providers.
• Metro SmartTrip deferral and 403(b) investment plan available.
• Paid holiday, vacation, and sick leave.

To Apply:  Send a cover letter and resume to settleson@gmail.com, subject line: POGO – External Affairs Associate or mail application to Project on Government Oversight, 1100 G Street, NW, #500, Washington, DC 20005. No phone calls please.