NC Policy Specialist

The N.C. Policy Specialist is a full-time, salaried position (40 hour/week) with Carolina Farm Stewardship Association (CFSA). The N.C. Policy Specialist works as part of the Policy Team to advocate for policies that better support local food, organic farming, and resilient food systems.

JOB SUMMARY:

The N.C. Policy Specialist works in collaboration with the Policy Director, other CFSA staff, and partner organizations to influence the N.C. General Assembly, state-level administrative agencies, land-grant universities, federal policymakers, and others on issues of importance to local and organic food and farming in North Carolina. Specific responsibilities include assisting in the development of state-level advocacy goals, organizing and leading campaigns in support of specific policy solutions to achieve these goals, educating state and federal policymakers on issues of importance to the local food and organic farming community, and organizing and overseeing grassroots communications in support of CFSA’s policy goals.

This position is remote and will be based within a reasonable commuting distance to Raleigh, NC. Travel within NC and to SC is required, including regular attendance at the NC General Assembly during legislative sessions.

The N.C. Policy Specialist reports to the Policy Director.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

State Policy (90%):

● Engage CFSA members and stakeholder communities in developing policy priorities and grassroots campaigns for North Carolina.
● Develop legislative and regulatory proposals and strategies to advance CFSA’s advocacy priorities, and implement strategies to influence legislative and regulatory processes.
● Educate state legislators and their staff and administrative agency personnel regarding CFSA’s advocacy priorities.
● Monitor state legislative developments and organize CFSA responses to issues relevant to policy priorities and overall mission.
● Follow NC news related to food and farming policy, and assist with the development of monthly e-newsletter compiling policy news for CFSA members.
● Coordinate media (traditional and social) outreach, in conjunction with CFSA communications staff and partner organizations, in support of policy campaigns.
● Establish and maintain relationships with administrators of NC’s land-grant universities to increase resources allocated to organic agriculture research and education.
● Compose white papers and policy memos from conception to completion.
● Work with partner organizations and land-grant universities to conduct analytical research.

Outreach and Administration (10%):

● Support Policy Director with administration of relevant member training programs.
● Increase awareness and visibility of CFSA’s advocacy work by giving presentations, accepting speaking engagements and conducting general outreach.
● Identify and pursue, in conjunction with other CFSA staff, funding opportunities to support policy initiatives.
● Participate in work planning with the Policy Team on an annual basis, and in weekly meetings of the Policy Team about ongoing work.
● Meet all certification and recordkeeping requirements placed on lobbyists by the state of North Carolina.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

● Demonstrated success working on policy campaigns targeting legislative or administrative policymakers.
● Must have a demonstrable record producing written communications, writing sample may be requested.
● Must be self-directed and capable of successful work outside of a traditional office structure.
● Exceptional organization and time management ability, with proven ability to multitask and meet deadlines and goals.
● Proven ability to work within a team, and with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
● Commitment to sustainable agriculture principles.
● Strong analytical skills, including ability to identify systemic problems and develop innovative solutions.
● Six years of relevant professional experience, or three years of relevant experience and a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (political science, public policy, law, etc.).

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

● A strong understanding of sustainable food and agriculture policy (e.g. conservation, food safety, agricultural research, rural development, healthy food access, etc.).
● Familiarity with the N.C. legislative process and the role of administrative agencies in crafting policy.
● Master’s degree in public administration, JD in public policy or related field.

CFSA is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse staff that honors the agricultural contributions of many cultures. People of color, LGBTQ+ people, and other individuals from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply. CFSA is committed to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at CFSA are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications. CFSA does not discriminate on the basis of actual or perceived race, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, gender, gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation), religious creed, disability, medical condition, genetic information, age, marital status, or military or veteran status.