Connecticut AFL-CIO
Political Director
Based in Rocky Hill, CT
(temporarily remote)
The Connecticut AFL-CIO is seeking an experienced political professional to serve as Political Director. The ideal candidate for this position will have substantial experience in electoral politics as well as a strong policy background. The candidate will be expected to quickly begin working with the state’s two Area Labor Federations and their respective chapters to run a vigorous municipal election campaign.
This position will also involve substantial writing and policy work. The ideal candidate will be able to apply their strong writing, communications and analytical skills towards crafting and executing the state federation’s electoral and policy priorities.
Responsibilities
- Serve as the principal strategist for the state federation’s electoral efforts, beginning immediately in Connecticut’s 2021 municipal elections by partnering with the Western Connecticut Area Labor Federation and the Eastern Connecticut Area Labor Federation.
- Engage affiliates, area labor federations, and labor chapters in the strategy of political and issue campaigns.
- Conceive, develop and implement campaigns and programs directed at union and possibly non-union communities through tactics such as canvassing, phone banking, worksite leafleting, mail, digital and earned media programs.
- Oversee the execution of the union member candidates’ program (known as Path to Power).
- Oversee affiliate and member volunteer recruitment and training.
- Collaborate with unions and their members on engagement, especially related to efforts related to political education and activism.
- Draft and edit political communications (e.g., electoral updates to affiliates, scripts, flyers, member stories, etc.).
- Lead the lobbying efforts with Connecticut’s federal delegation.
- Assist the Legislative Director with state lobbying efforts during the legislative session.
- Represent the state federation with coalitions and meetings with outside organizations.
- Assist with other state federation programs and priorities as needed (e.g., Workers Memorial Day, Labor Day breakfast, lobby days, legislative conferences, biennial conventions, etc.)
- Serve as staff lead for the Committee on Political Education.
- Assist Connecticut AFL-CIO officers as needed on special projects.
- Other duties and responsibilities as assigned.
Qualifications
- Minimum of five years’ experience in political program development and implementation, with significant experience managing mobilization programs.
- Demonstrated ability to plan and organize multiple campaigns and projects simultaneously in a high-pressure environment requiring rapid adjustment to changing priorities, strategies, and deadlines.
- Leadership experience working inside and alongside the labor movement.
- Demonstrated understanding of the labor movement and its structure in Connecticut.
- Experience with lobbying at the municipal, state, and/or federal level.
- Exceptional written and verbal communication skills and proven ability to effectively communicate with diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated work ethic.
- A commitment to the labor movement and to advancing social justice.
- An ability to work in a demanding, fast-paced environment, including flexibility on nights and weekends.
Compensation
This position offers a competitive package of salary and benefits.
Application Procedure & Deadline
To apply, please include:
- Cover letter
- Résumé
- One- to two-page writing sample
- Three professional references
Please email all materials to ctafl-cio@ctaflcio.org. Deadline to apply is Sunday, May 16, 2021.