Description
**Applicants must submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this position. **
The California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits) is a member-based 501(c)3 nonprofit alliance representing thousands of diverse nonprofit organizations statewide. As the leading voice of California's nonprofit sector, we drive policy advocacy at the state and federal level. With locations throughout California and a robust educational program, we provide valuable membership benefits and serve as a critical resource to the sector. Our work also includes conducting and presenting research that furthers understanding of the impact of the sector.
We are seeking a motivated, dynamic individual to serve as our new Public Policy & Research Associate. Join us in supporting influential policy initiatives and shaping a stronger future for California's nonprofit community!
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Public Policy & Research Associate will support the Director of Public Policy to advance CalNonprofits’ policy platform and advocacy goals at the federal and state levels, particularly through research strategies. They are responsible for supporting the development and execution of public policy and government affairs activities, programs, research, and communications that effectively engage members and partners while advancing the organization’s mission and vision. This role involves researching, analyzing, and influencing public policies, regulations, and legislation. So, if you like to get wonky and aren’t afraid of getting in the weeds on a policy topic, this might be the job for you! The ideal candidate will have some understanding of legislative processes, research standards and methods, and data-driven storytelling.
We’re seeking a team member with a passion for connecting people and ideas, and who is eager to pass on knowledge and support to members throughout the nonprofit sector. You’ll conduct research and analysis on critical sector issues; develop and disseminate information to nonprofit organizations, policymakers, media, the public, and other influential and key decision makers; and design and implement strategies for increasing member involvement in civic engagement. The ideal candidate is a strong communicator with a desire to learn, take initiative, and advance awareness of the nonprofit sector with a knack for building relationships, particularly across a highly diverse industry and with pivotal stakeholders. A self-directed worker is paramount, including comfort with a high-performance team culture focused on personal accountability, collaboration, continuous learning, urgency, and goal achievement.
Must live in California to serve in this role.
PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Policy and Government Affairs Coordination
Monitor, research, track, and respond to local, state and federal policy developments, including legislative and regulatory issues.
Schedule and participate in virtual and in-person meetings with federal, state, and local government officials, staff, and other stakeholders.
Prepare and distribute meeting-related materials in advance.
Support scheduling, meeting, and onboarding logistics for CalNonprofits’ Policy Advisory Group and any other key legislative hearings.
Support the planning and execution of the Annual Policy Conference and policy-related webinars, including speaker outreach, program design, attendance outreach, and more.
Participate in mission-aligned coalition meetings/calls and support the organization’s engagement with national partners as directed.
Attend and report on briefings, hearings, meetings and conference calls as needed.
Support the development and implementation of policy strategies, including engaging nonprofits in policy matters ensure a broad and inclusive approach.
Build and maintain positive relationships with nonprofit advocates and government officials, thereby raising CalNonprofits’ standing as a respected voice for nonprofits.
Communications
Research and write content for CalNonprofits' website and publications and participate in promotion by supporting social media development with the Communications team.
Create and edit fact sheets and other collateral materials related to policy priorities.
Support policy surveys by making changes in Survey Monkey and engaging in outreach.
Research
In partnership with the Policy Director, identify potential new analytic and research projects; oversee the design and implementation of the organization’s research efforts; build on longitudinal data and reports to expand public awareness of the role and contributions of nonprofits and to further and influence public policy goals.
Support the design and implementation of training programs - in partnership with the Director of Education and the Director of Public Policy - to build and sustain nonprofit capacity and commitment to policy advocacy.
Manage projects, new research initiatives, and the periodic Causes Count report.
Draft, conduct research for, and help develop reports, summary documents and issue briefs, related charts and visuals, infographics, and presentations.
Derive expertise from members and facilitate research products that inform members and the public to enhance the organization’s visibility and influence.
Conduct data analysis and identify insights and opportunities that inform decisions and support both organizational and systemic improvement.
Requirements
At least 3-5 years of relevant work experience in advocacy/public policy, research, government, communications, etc.
Knowledge of and passion for the California nonprofit and philanthropic community.
Excellent analytical, research, organization, writing, and presentation skills.
Experience analyzing proposed legislation and regulations.
Excellent time management skills.
Project management skills to carry out a project from start to finish.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and with people and organizations of diverse backgrounds and political viewpoints.
California state driver's license and willingness to travel in-state.
Prior success working independently/remotely preferred.
Ability to work within a small staff and handle diverse duties.
Strong customer service and relationship-building skills.
Experience working for or with a statewide or member-based organization preferred.
Familiarity with Google Suite, Capitol Track, Canva, MailChimp and Microsoft Office.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS:
The compensation for this position is commensurate with experience, ranging from $80,000 to $100,000 per year. We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance, along with a 403b retirement plan featuring a 6% match.
Additional perks include company-paid life insurance and both long-term and short-term disability coverage. Employees also enjoy 15 paid time off (PTO) days (20 after the first year) and 12 paid holidays annually. To support remote work, a stipend for home internet and phone usage is provided.
Moreover, CalNonprofits is recognized as a Public Service Loan Forgiveness qualified employer, providing additional financial benefits for eligible individuals.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to effectively communicate. The employee may be required to sit or stand in a stationary position for more than 50% of the time. This position constantly operates a computer and other office productivity equipment. CalNonprofits adheres to ADA compliance and guidelines as a common practice.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This job description summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION/EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT:
The California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofits) provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, CalNonprofits complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
CalNonprofits believes that a diverse workforce is important and valuable for many reasons. First and foremost, we strive to be an organization where every single person feels welcome and can bring their whole self to the work we do. We also believe that each person’s perspective can bring something unique to our mission. If you have perspectives, background, or experiences that are sometimes overlooked but valuable, we encourage you to apply and to share them during the application and interview process.
TO APPLY:
Please send your cover letter and resume to hiring@calnonprofits.org with the subject line “Public Policy & Research Associate.” This role will remain posted until filled. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority review for those who apply by November 21, 2025
