The Oregon Student Association
The student-led, student-funded Oregon Student Association (OSA) was founded in 1975 to represent the collective needs of students at public universities and community colleges.
We believe that every Oregonian deserves access to a quality, affordable college education, and that students should be involved in decisions that affect them.
Job Description
OSA is seeking a highly driven and knowledgeable Legislative Director to lead all aspects of OSA’s statewide advocacy. The Legislative Director has a finger on the pulse of the statewide dialogue on issues of post-secondary education and keeps the organization at the forefront of the debate.
The Legislative Director spearheads policy research on student priority issues while coordinating advocacy in the capitol. Alongside the Executive Director, this person serves as the primary organizational advocate and lobbyist. OSA board members and staff depend on the Legislative Director for written reports, testimony development, and legislative updates to help guide the organization’s priority agenda. This person also assists the Organizing Director and Communications Director in the implementation of OSA field and membership strategies through material development and targeting of key districts.
The Legislative Director will join a talented, committed, and innovative professional staff working to empower young leaders and improve access to a college education for ALL Oregonians. The OSA Legislative Director reports to the Executive Director. This person spends about 40% of their time in the OSA office, 40% of their time in the State Capitol (during legislative sessions 90% of their time), and 20% of their time on campus.
Qualifications
Capable and confident public speaker and spokesperson, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to understand the big picture and the small details.
Background in postsecondary education policy and issues, with a well versed understanding of Oregon politics and legislative processes.
Experience in advocacy and lobbying.
Understanding of and dedication to grassroots and electoral organizing.
Self-motivated, out-going, and detail-oriented.
Willing to work evenings and weekends and to travel.
Strong and steadfast work ethic.
Has a valid driver’s license and personal vehicle
Responsibilities
Serve as main contact for Oregon Legislature and staff: Monitor legislative committees during session and in the interim. Develop testimony, reports, and educational legislative materials.
Implement OSA legislative strategies with the Organizing Director.
Monitor meetings of the Oregon University System, Oregon Student Assistance Commission, LaneCommunity College and Mount Hood Community College Boards of Education, Oregon Community College Association, and Dept. of Community Colleges & Workforce Development, and other state boards as necessary.
Work with the OSA Communications Director and Executive Director to craft messages and develop talking points.
Conduct research to assist board in priority issue setting and advocacy.
Provide trainings and work closely with OSA students on all meetings with legislators and candidates. Coordinate all summer candidate visits, and legislative visits.
Advise and train OSA interns on legislative and research projects.
Deliver presentations on campus regarding current issues of concern to students.
Offer advice and support to student governments and student organizations.
Actively participate in organizational fundraising.
Lead with other director staff members and set an example by taking on additional duties when necessary to advance the mission of the Oregon Student Association.
Salary and Benefits
$28,000-$29,500 depending on experience with potential for increases.
Dental, medical, and vision insurance
How to apply
To Apply
Please submit
Cover letter explaining your interest and experience
Resume
Supplemental Questions
Contact information for three references who can comment on your work ethic, written and oral communication skills, and level of experience.
Supplemental Questions
OSA works in coalition with organizations on a variety of issues. Please give an example of work you have done to build strong coalitions, and discuss strategies you found effective.
Describe your experience with researching and developing policy.
Please explain your knowledge of and familiarity with the Oregon Legislature and Legislative Process
OSA prioritizes issues impacting underrepresented communities by engaging students of color and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students at the statewide level. Please describe your experience and qualifications in advocating for, researching issues with, and training students from these communities.
Additional Information
Position is open until filled. Application Deadline: July 3rd 2015 @ 5pm PST with interviews for select candidates to be scheduled between July 6th and 10th.
Position is based in Portland.
Submit applications by e-mail to Mario@orstudents.org (subject line should read ‘Legislative Director Application’ or fax them to (503) 286-0924. Attn: Mario Parker-Milligan, Executive Director, Oregon Student Association, 635 NE Dekum St., Portland, OR 97211. For more information please visit: www.orstudents.org
*Oregon Student Association is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. People of color, women, gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender people and people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.