Full-Time State Project Coordinator
Job Description
American Oversight is seeking an extraordinary candidate to coordinate a major new initiative to bring our investigative watchdog expertise to bear on the problem of voter suppression and the corruption of democracy at the state level.
American Oversight uses state and federal open records requests, backed by aggressive litigation, to expose corruption in government. Now, in addition to American Oversight’s extensive federal anti-corruption mission, we are using the same tools to uncover the paper trail left behind when politicians, activist groups, and dark money conspire to entrench themselves in power by limiting who can vote. Secrecy makes their efforts possible. The evidence we uncover will inform the public, support civil rights litigation, and augment policy advocacy for change.
As State Program Coordinator, you will be American Oversight’s internal and external hub for anti-voter suppression efforts, coordinating our litigators, investigators, and communicators with like-minded organizations and actors. You will help us identify investigative targets and find ways to put the evidence we obtain to use for change.
An ideal candidate is an excellent organizer and relationship builder, a sponge for information, and a master at distilling complex or voluminous information to make it compelling. A typical day will involve tracking the news, digging into substance with American Oversight staff, reviewing documents, and staying in close contact with partner organizations at the state and federal levels. American Oversight currently is active in Florida, Georgia, and Texas, but is exploring expansion into new jurisdictions. In the future, American Oversight’s state-level work may expand beyond voter defense to other corruption issues.
The State Program Coordinator will work closely with American Oversight’s leadership to chart strategy and inform resource allocation decisions. At the same time, they will be close to the work, often jumping on opportunities as they arise to ensure maximum impact.
The position is located in downtown Washington, DC, and is easily accessible by multiple metro and bus lines.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Coordinate and develop strategies for open records investigations in individual states, as well as for American Oversight’s broader state-level program.
Develop and manage upward and downward communications about the state program to keep everyone informed and working together.
Work with American Oversight management to coordinate efforts of American Oversight staff focused on state-based work.
Read widely to stay abreast of relevant news and identify information germane to existing investigations or potential new ones.
Cultivate relationships with other organizations at the state and national levels to identify potential lines of inquiry, understand local dynamics, and discover opportunities for impact.
Participate in the drafting and review of open records requests. Review documents obtained through open records requests.
Work with American Oversight’s investigations team and partner organizations to identify significant information in the documents we uncover.
Work with American Oversight’s communications and investigations teams as well as partner organizations to leverage and publicize finds and create messaging materials.
Represent American Oversight in meetings with coalition partners.
QUALIFICATIONS
Four or more years of experience in organizing or issue advocacy. Familiarity with working in coalitions or with partner organizations.
A strong foundation in voting rights issues preferred.
Excellent organizational and project management abilities.
Demonstrated people management experience.
Exceptional writing, research, and verbal communications skills.
Sound judgment and analysis.
Familiarity with open records laws or tools is helpful but not required.
A passion for details and for seeing the full puzzle from a handful of pieces.
An entrepreneurial spirit and passion for helping American Oversight build something new.
Comfortable in an evolving startup environment.
Ability to work effectively on multiple projects, balance priorities, and excel in a team-based, collegial environment is essential.
Spanish language skills are helpful but not required.
We believe the above qualifications do a good job describing the kind of candidate we are seeking; however, if you think you’re perfect for the job but don’t check every box, please apply and tell us why you’d be a great fit.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
American Oversight is proudly an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse team. People of color, women, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and/or veterans are encouraged to apply.
The salary range for this position is $80,000 to $100,000, commensurate with experience. We offer a 403(b) plan with an employer match and generous health-care benefits.
We are biased, but we think American Oversight is a great place to work! Take a look at the testimonials from members of our wonderful team.
American Oversight is a nonpartisan, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization.
HOW TO APPLY
Please send application materials, including a one-page cover letter describing relevant experience and interest, resume, and writing sample to jo**@am***************.org with “State Program Coordinator Position” in the subject line. Please indicate in your email how you heard about this opening.
Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will begin our first round of review by October 25, 2019.
How to Apply
Please send application materials, including a one-page cover letter describing relevant experience and interest, resume, and writing sample to jobs@americanoversight.org with “State Program Coordinator Position” in the subject line. Please indicate in your email how you heard about this opening. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. We will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and will begin our first round of review by October 25, 2019.521 total views, 0 today